Elk Newb

[Mr T]

buy the best optics you can afford and push yourself physically. The activity won't get you but the altitude will. At 10000ft, the air is much less dense, you WILL be gulping for air no matter how good of shape you are in. Not much a Louisiana boy can do to simulate 10000ft elevations, but trying is certainly better than doing nothing. It can ruin your hunt if you can't at least keep up with the guide.
But elk hunting is as good as it gets in North America, so enjoy it. And remember the real work doesn't begin until the animal is down!