I hunt elk here in Colorado every year. I work out (especially on a stairclimber and on local mountains) for several months before elk season. Every year, we have a couple of guys from Indiana that come out for a week. They sure do get winded, and they're in good shape! Remember, just because you're in Colorado and have the perfect rifle, does not guarantee that you'll even see elk. They sure are sneaky! If you should decide to come out, make SURE you're in great shape, because if you don't, you'll really hate life on the mountain.