I personally prefer earlier elk seasons. I sure wish NV would make their muzzy elk hunts earlier than Oct 22nd. If they started on Oct 1st or even Oct 10th I'd jump on one. The Nov 4 early rifle hunt is just way too late for my liking. Plus you're dealing with broken up bulls recovering from the rut.
I'd go with one of the earlier season hunts like the 072, 073, 074 muzzy hunt or any archery hunt. Maybe one the earlier rifle hunts. The problem though is I'm with you on wanting to stay in the Ely area, but the muzzy and rifle hunts in 111-115 are on the later side.