First Year Archery for Elk

[GWA Hunter]

Just wondering if someone could help me get on my feet for Elk. This is my first year archery hunting for elk and I have fell in love with it but just can't seem to avoid the crowd. I'm not asking for anyones honey hole but just would appreciate a little guidance. I hunted Elk this archery season in unit 454 for the first time but there was just way too many hunters. Anyone have any suggestions for elk on the westside preferably 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours from Auburn/Federal Way area. Would be willing to go 2 hours away if there were places to stay for 3 to 4 days during the season. Any unit suggestions or areas would be awesome. Thanks guys.

[WonkyWapiti]

The problem with 454, 460 is the amount of hunters plus so much of it is private land.

[WDFW Hates ME!!!]

Good luck in washington... Remember we have more people per elk than any other state. It will be hard to get away from people unless you park at a closed gate and walk, but then they might pass you on a quad.
I might be able to help you but i do not hunt up there. And the area i could suggest to you would still have tons of people.

[WonkyWapiti]

WDFW don't forget all the people that somehow end up with keys to those gates and decide to drive up'em anyways while you are hiking your butt up the mountainside.