Most hunters walk past the best elk spots in October—and that’s exactly why they stay full of elk. In this episode of Backbone Unlimited, Matt Hartsky breaks down the truth about October elk hunting and how to find the hidden pockets where bulls and cows vanish after the rut. The bugles fade, the pressure rises, and the mountains feel empty—but the elk haven’t disappeared. They’ve shifted into overlooked terrain: dark timber pockets, north-facing rims, mid-elevation benches, hidden seeps, burn edges, and the steep, nasty holes no one wants to hike into. Matt explains how post-rut elk behavior changes the game. You’ll learn why bulls prioritize recovery and security, how thermals, slope, and shade dictate their bedding choices, and why pressure pushes them into places most hunters ignore. He breaks down how to hunt dark timber methodically, how to glass overlooked benches and transition corridors, and how to intercept quiet, cautious elk in the middle of October when calling is no longer the play. You’ll also hear practical tips for reading subtle sign, managing wind, and hunting these honey holes at the right times of day. Whether you’re running a rifle, bow, or muzzleloader, this episode gives you a full strategy for turning “dead season” into your most productive hunt of the year. If you’re tired of empty drainages and want to learn how to locate elk long after the rut, this is the October blueprint.