Yes sir, coming across spikes can be a crap shoot for sure! This time of year getting elevation where you know elk feed no matter how thick the country is, start glassing the heck out of it first 2-3 hours of daylight. Also keep an eye out on their traveling routes & escape routes from the feeding towards the bedding while in glassing mode. In the evenings do the opposite, start glassing where you have an idea elk bedded, now once you find them you are at the mercy of the elk that there's a spike in the group! (grin) Glassing larger areas from elevated spots are the keys to locating elk the quickest way! If hunting with a rifle no calling will most likely be needed. If hunting with a bow & a spike is found do your best to get in his way of travel. If it's tough to do because of cover & wind direction do your best to get within a 100 yards & pull him over with very low volume persistent mews, this calling is very deadly on spikes!
Also, if time permits watch those bedding areas midday, elk will get up to stretch, feed & water, it's a great time to spot them then!
ElkNut1