The elk came out on private, closer to our camp than where Troy saw them last evening. Seemed strange to sleep on the rocks when the elk were as close to camp as they would be to our rock nest. So, we put on the headlamps and came back to camp.
Never thought a dinner of PBJ and pepperoni sticks could taste so good. Drank a few gallons, well, maybe not gallons, of water in the last ten minutes. Want to crash and get some sleep.
Good news is the elk were moving closer to our camp, and if they plan to hit the timber before it gets to hot, the best place is within a mile of camp. Takes over two miles to get there, but better than where we were most of today.
Someone told us to watch out for rattle snakes. Seems Troy was on the lookout. When he was leading, we found one right away. I probably walked past a few of them, but my hearing is so bad I probably did not realize they were there. This one needed a few pictures. Amazing how well they blend into this dying grass.
Needed to bring my shotgun. The number of blue grouse is amazing. Gonna shoot one with my bow if the chance arises.
Even though I am toast, I have a good feeling about tomorrow. We better get it done, as the warning of more people in this small area, along with what I see in the weather forecast, makes it look pretty bleak for the weekend.
Heard no bugles on our way back to camp, but keeping my fingers crossed that they will strike up the band tonight. I do have a cow tag, so they best not feel too secure in coming within my range. Same goes for raghorns. By Monday morning, maybe even spotted calves.
Damn, this is fun. Not many people are camped out on the public lands, resting their feet after a long day of hiking. Glad to live in a country where I can do this stuff. Can't imagine living in some city/state/country where there was no such thing as public hunting.