Taneum Elk Cow tag porblem

[Hiker82]

First off long time lurker (for a few years, I really enjoy reading the posts about success and honestly the struggle) and first time poster. 

I've been putting in for the last 8 years, mostly for points also with my son for a youth tag.  This year I got drawn for Taneum cow elk modern, 8 points and Oct 29-Nov 3.  First off it's great, I'm excited and my son (just turned 14) is even more excited. Taneum was our 3rd choice as I went to CWU 20 years ago and spent more time in he woods or on the river than in class.  I was mostly up in the Clockum or Manashtash area which I'm very familiar with.  Taneum, not so much.

Here are a few of the challenges that I'm facing and I'm just going to be straight up honest and direct. 
1.  We only have a few days and have to be back on the westside by about 2pm on October 31 for some obligations that can not be changed.
2.  It's just me an my son as my partners in the past are not available and dropping one down a ravine would be a challenge for us both.
3.  I'm heading over tomorrow, if I can get out of work, to scout the area and explore the new area but other than that we've never been up there.
4.  I'm having hesitations about camping with just my son and no buddies. A few years ago, I had a pretty scary situation while camping and slightly struggling with jumping back into it with just my kid.

 I've thought of turning my tag back in and/or just not going. However, when I brought it up to my son he was extremely disappointed as I explained the situation.  My wife is encouraging us to go and we really want to. 

So, that's my situation and really struggling with the problems listed above.  Hopefully, when I scout the next day or two alot of my questions will be answered.

Any type of advice or words of encouragement would be welcomed.  PM is great.  Thanks for listening.

[Kingofthemountain83]

I'd go and figure it out with your son... Great experience whether you're successful or not... If you get one down in a ravine just cut the meat off the bones and put it in game bags not too heavy to carry out... Enjoy yourselfs...

[Dan-o]

You don't describe what your scary situation was, so it's hard to say. 

My thoughts:
1.  I've never regretting time spent hunting/fishing/camping with my kids. 
2.  I have regretted letting other things get in the way.
3.  Depending on your situation, maybe prep tour kid and a couple close friends on where you'll be.
4.  Good luck!!!!

[fishngamereaper]

Learn roads and campsites.
Most elk are up high right now and most of those won't be there by Nov.
After archery season I can give you more specific advice if you still need.
It's not a slam dunk tag. The taneum is mostly thick and mostly steep.

[teanawayslayer]

Pm sent

[pickardjw]

For #2, concern about not being able to retrieve, shoot me a PM if you'd like my cell #. Depending on timing I may or may not be available due to work but happy to help if I can.

I've packed out 2x more animals than I've personally shot, no reason to stop that trend now! 

[hunterednate]

I went hunting a lot with my dad as a kid. Much of the time, we did not have a great plan, or much forethought (family size can Dinty Moore stew for dinner? But no can opener or stove??), and sometimes got into situations that turned out sketchy (especially looking back as an adult). But I'm SO glad he took me out there. I think you will be glad you went on an adventure during these fleeting years with your growing son. And even if you're not, I know he will.

Rooting for you to notch your tag and have a blast.

[Hiker82]

Thank you all for the responses and the PM's.  I am feeling alot better and feeling this is doable. 
I got a couple questions about the camping issue but long story short.  Many years back, my wife was alone at camp got freaked out by an aggressive person stopping by our camp she called me and I came back. I was in the woods behind the camp and the same guy came back asking for more than a cup of sugar (if you follow what I'm saying).  I'll leave it at that.
I'm not going scouting tomorrow as I'm going salmon fishing in area 11 with a couple buddies.  Maybe Wednesday.

[royalbull]

I'm taking my 14 year old grandson on his cow hunt this year, won't be coming back to do any trick or treating though, it's his first special tag and we can't wait for it to start, he drew the Yakima North youth tag so he gets 10/29-11/9, hopefully all goes well for him

[scottfrick]

@Hiker82 send me a direct message and I’ll give you my info. I as well am more willing to help pack if needed. If I’m available and you need help I’ll be there. But like a lot have mentioned just go and make memories with your kid! That’s what it’s really about. Good luck and look forward to hearing back from you.

[Rick]

Get a couple decent meat packs. You and your son should have no problem retrieving an elk. Quarters from a Rocky cow aren’t massive, especially the fronts.