I have hunted elk a loongg time, IMO, it comes down to what you plan on doing. If it is a "bucket list" hunt, then the expense of hunting private land with an outfitter (many also hunt BLM, state and federal lands as well), then the expense may be worth it, if expense isn't an issue, it may also be your way to go each year. The odds are higher, but much also depends on time of year (season conditions), rainfall, current weather, outfitters lands/leases/ style and location. For the highest percentage, I'd find an outfitter that also has private land to work with. I have friends that have done both, one in particular that can afford to use an outfitter every year for himself, family and clients, they probably run around 80% on opportunity.

DIY, of course is cheaper, you have to deal with the learning curve, more hunters generally, all the "trouble shooting" and most of the things your guide/outfitter would deal with (including all the frustration at times), but at a cheaper price point. For me it is worth every cent DIY, figuring things out and getting it done, comes with a ton of satisfaction.

If you have the cash and it is likely a one, or 2 time deal, then a good, reputable outfitter is probably the way to go. If you want to go yearly , as in making a tradition, then IMO DIY is a blast with a couple good buds, or by yourself.

There is also the option of just hiring to be "drop camped" basically a outfitter will take you into good country and then it is DIY from there, this can be much cheaper than a full guide service.

Just my thoughts anyway.

more "inhospitable" than your trek down the mountain last year?

I may break away from the group this year and try to find some less hospitable places to find elk

You remember the river we walked down to? Just cross it and the little strip of public land through the private. Lots of elk up there and all the inhospitable you heart can desire.

If that is the stream I'm thinking of, great fly fishing too, but tight in places.

i have hunted CO. and NM not as much as some, but enough to know if you are going to hunt where the going is easy so is every other tom, dick,harry and geroge fox. That is on Public land

If you are going to lay around camp one day, be sure to keep some bacon on a low fire. This enhances you chance of a shot at yogi.

This can sure be frustrating, but usually by day 3, most are too sore, hungover, out of ammo, out of ATV fuel, or in a casino....... You have to use that "onslaught" to your advantage if you can.