LAST EDITED ON Jul-21-08 AT 08:25AM (MST)[p]You should call Colorado DOW and see what your options are for returning the tag. I do know that it is different than it used to be, but don't know specifics.
Your father will likely never draw another Kaibab tag again in his lifetime, unless he's a resident, and even then it's a longshot. I don't know the specifics of how that region of Colorado fared this winter, but keep in mind that the Gunnison basin isn't that far from unit 53 and it got hammered. Deer hunting in 53 might not be what you expect, or are hoping for.
I'd definitely go on the Kaibab hunt, as it should be a wonderful experience, and you have a chance to take a very nice buck. In the early season, you'll likely be hunting on top, which is beautiful timber country. Two summers ago, the Warm Fire destroyed over 50,000 acres, burned some of it completely while other areas are a nice patchwork that still have a lot of old growth mixed with burned spots. Two years and some good rains this year have created an area that should now be a deer magnet. Most of the burned country is easily accessible, as it's right along the road that leads to the park. It starts only a mile or so south of Jacob Lake and runs for many miles. Of course, the Kaibab is a big area, so most of it is still unburned and has lots of mature timber. It's a beautiful place.
You mentioned that your dad is 72 and can't walk far. There are plenty of dirt roads all around the top, so you guys will have no trouble getting around. I'd highly recommend that you find areas you like, park the truck and then just walk the roads. Most of the top is rolling country, so the walking isn't tough on roads and you'll see plenty of deer. You should have a good chance to find a buck bigger than the 160 class you mentioned in your original post, and who knows, he might end up with one of those bucks the plateau is famous for producing. they're not behind every tree, but there are some up there.
Spend some time talking to the fellow at the Jacob Lake Lodge who has lived up there for 60+ years, I don't remember his name, but if you sit down for a bite at the lunch counter anyone can tell you who he is. He'd be an excellent source of information for you guys, and he's of your father's generation so they may get on quite well and perhaps he'll be even more helpful than usual. He's a very nice man and likes to help.
Regardless of what kind of deer your dad might take, the two of you should have a wonderful time together on an early Kaibab hunt. I would plan on arriving a day or two before the season and check things out, and plan on having one really good hunt over the whole season. It's a great place to camp, and if you want you can stay at the lodge where you can have a hot shower each night if that's your preference. Remember, its about the experience and memories, so don't neglect to take a little extra time and drive down to the park and go see the canyon from the north side. Neither of you will be disappointed.