Have you and Cohunter1989 had any luck with the scouting? That is a really cool area - especially making a drive around the Bachelor loop or the Wheeler Geological Area. Best of luck
Last year, I was in a pretty similar situation with a lot of the same questions. I found the CPW online website "Bear Hunting Tips" pretty helpful.
https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/BearHtgTips.aspx
I definitely think Oakbrush thickets are a good place to start (especially if you can...
Yes, I hunted in that area a few years ago. I think your idea of glassing is sound (especially the first and last hour of each day). There are some good quality deer in the area, just like almost anywhere in CO. Like you said, a little snow and cold will help to get them moving and be a...