You really have to decide what is important to you. Want only super-magnum trophy? Want "just an elk?
Used to work with a guy who would talk fly fishing all day every day. He RARELY ever went. Knew very little about fly fishing, or fishing in general. Nice guy - just swallowed the hype and let it make his decisions for him though he was happy with just catching a few fish. I took him once and we caught a dozen bass, he was thrilled. Wasn't able to get him fly fishing... Haven't talked to him in over 20 years - sincerely hope he still has the fire burning for it. His enthusiasm was awesome.
How does this apply to the question? If you've never shot an elk and are willing to go at it like the pros, only a big one. You can taste it - awesome! Possibly you/me/we don't realize you would be happy with a rag horn or even spike for a first elk.
I've got a similar situation but for mulies - hoping for a tag in a lightly hunted area, fellow who told me to go here said lots of young bucks but also some real whoppers. Never shot one before. How long will I wait? I like symmetry, 3x3 or 4x4, tall beats wide. Then add an 80 yr old father wanting to join me - he'd never go when we were both younger. I'm doing MY bucket list. LOL! So, what am I gonna shoot? Got no idea but it will be a great trophy with some wonderful memories attached to it.