Trekking poles are a must for serious elk hunters. On our trip this year in 50 mph winds they were priceless in fighting the wind and for all-around balance. Unfortunately, we didn't get to pack anything out this year which is when trekking poles really come in handy......to help you handle the load. I use Leki Voyagers and they've worked great so far. Paid $50 for them new. Only thing is some say that the snap-lock trekking poles do better in the snow than the twist locks due to ice and packed snow jamming up the twist locks. The Voyagers are unfortunately twist locks, but I'm pretty sure they can hold more weight than some of the more expensive Leki trekking poles. If I had to do it over again though, I'd still get the Voyagers.