There is a wealth of information available on the DOW website, harvest statistics, population estimations.
Get on Google Earth look at some areas, talk to the local DOW Wildlife Manager.
I know it's tougher when your out of state but the information is out there to get you in a decent area with some critters.
There are no guarantees year to year the animals move around and it takes a while to learn new areas.
Good Luck, have fun, being in the Mountains during Elk season is a gift itself.
Pat