Unless you have scouted an area and know that the elk are there, my main tactic is to cover lots of ground the first day or two and see what kind of sign I can find and try to narrow down the area I want to focus on. From there, I methodically will work my way through the areas, stopping every few feet to watch and listen. I have found later in the season that the elk can and will move all day long so plan on spending all day out and about. Last but not least, have fun!