If you're not used to riding horseback, and then travel to a western state for a high country elk hunt, then you are in for a sore surprise.

Saddle soreness is part of the hunt, but you can avoid making the pain worse, says outfitter Gary Jordan. He runs the Colorado Outdoor Adventure Guide School, and he's spent years guiding pack-in hunts into the western high country.

You've probably heard this one before, but now it's recommended by an expert.

"It does help some, wearing nylon or hose, avoiding friction and a sore butt," he admits. "Beyond that, give the outfitter all the information you can about yourself and your physical condition. If you don't have experience riding horses or mules, then you shouldn't book a pack-trip 25 miles back in the country."