Ben,
I can't give you any area specifics but I can give you some pointers to try and help curb the learning curve.
Maps: Get a good forestry map. You need a map that details trails, roads, creeks, rivers, etc.
Elevation: This can be an issue. Take some aspirin every day for a week prior to your hunt. After a few days of being acclimated you can discontinue this. I would suggest @ 2-3 days after you have arrived. Take it easy the first two days.
Weather: This time of year there are thunderstorms almost daily. It can go from hot/humid to wet/cold pretty quick. Make sure you have some good rain gear and several pairs of gloves to rotate if you wear them. Obviously good waterproof boots are a must have and plenty pairs of socks. A rain fly for your pack is also a good idea.
Bugs: Some years the mosquitoes will carry you away. Pray for a a small cold front to pass through before your hunt. If there are cattle in the area, the bugs multiply by 10!
Hunting: Find an active creek and follow it upward. You will find active wallows which are always a good spot this time of year. I like to follow these dang near to the top. There will be shelves up high where the elk can get a good vantage point thus making them feel safe. The best spots are active springs/seeps on a steep mountain slope. Even better if you can find these on north facing slopes. Stand back and get a good visual of a slope. Look for washouts on the hillside. If there is a patch of dead fallen down trees I would hike to it. Often the mud is what has washed these trees away. These tend to be the best spots.
Open meadows are great for an evening hunt. Glass them in the evenings and you will know if they are active. If so, a tree stand on the perimeter is a great chance for success.
Transfer routes between feeding and bedding areas are also great for early season archery since the elk are still on their routine.
Luck: The most important aspect is luck. I like to control my own luck as much as possible. I hunt all day...every day. Those who do are often the ones who are "lucky"! Early season archery elk hunting is a patient mans game. Leave the spot and stalk to the hunting shows.
Stay positive throughout the hunt as things can change quickly. Be safe and enjoy what is my passion!
Let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks so much & thank you SCH for having such an awesome website. 
