This year I didn’t have an archery elk hunt in my fall calendar, and I just couldn’t stand it! So, at the last minute, I decided to make a quick trip up to Utah to try and chase some elk on a quick solo backcountry hunt. From the minute I left the pavement, things started to go wrong, and they only got worse as the trip went on. It definitely became one of the sketchiest solo backcountry experiences I’ve ever had, and at the end of the day I was just thankful to get back home safely. Follow along on my cautionary tale of woe and hopefully pick up some tips to keep you from meeting a similar fate in the backcountry. GOHUNT is the only resource I trust for draw odds, e-scouting and maps, and they’re my go-to gear shop as well. Head over to GOHUNT to join as an Insider or an Explorer and use the code LATE to get an instant credit to the gear shop ($50 for Insiders // $20 for Explorers). OutdoorClass is the e-learning platform for the outdoorsman. They have the top experts giving incredible lessons, and there is so much more already being created by the best in class in the outdoor industry. Check it out HERE and use the code LATE to save 20% on your membership. If you’re a newer hunter (or an experienced one just looking to make sure there aren’t any gaps in your hunting game), check out my book How to Hunt: A Total Beginner’s Guide to Hunting Big Game. To stay up on everything going on, follow us @latetothegameoutdoors or check out the website. I’m also putting out fresh video content regularly, so subscribe to the YouTube channel and you won’t miss any future hunting films and how-to content.