I would listen to what these people are saying. I have extensive hunting experience out there. Bucks have never been as abundant here as other ranges, even in the deep creek hayday. Now these monster bucks that these people say used to be out there are 25-28 inch bucks. Not really "monsters" in most peoples books. If you do decide to hunt out in this "Gem". Know that you will hunt long hard, wear yourself to the bone, this country is rugged, steep and unforgiving, you will see few deer, and if your lucky, very lucky, something around 25 inches. You may see more cats than deer, and will most definitely see more elk. Don't forget that it takes 4-5 hours of driving just to get to the areas that you can start hiking from. Make sure you are prepared, guaranteed you'll have at least one if not two flat tires, and take first aid with you. I'm not necessarily warning you, because I'm sure you will go hunting out there, it seems everyone that I warn does, but when you are all done and whining about the deep creeks, then remeber that I told you so.
Happy hunting
T