Generally those with larger racks shed first, which makes sense considering they weigh more than the racks of younger animals. Deer can drop their antlers from as early as November (wouldn't count on it though) through May. Elk from February through May. It's not an exact science when or where they will shed their antlers, as a lot has to do with how weak they are from winter and when the snow melts. Good places to find antlers are fences, streams, gullies, or any place where they would have likely jumped and jarred an antler loose. Other common places are feeding and bedding areas. Focus will be mainly on the south facing slopes where they would have received more warmth during the winter months. You'll need a good pair of binocs and some quality hiking boots (there will be a lot of hiking involved). Unless you want to carry your finds by hand it's advisable you have a backpack or external frame you can use to tie your booty to. You do not need any license to hunt for or possess shed antlers.
Also, elk antlers in good quality can sell for upwards of $10 per lb. and record matching pairs for both elk and deer can sell for thousands of dollars. Obviously with the idea of money laying out there just waiting to be picked up it's extremely competitive so the earlier you head out and the more eyes you have the better. I'm not sure about the selling process, probably ebay or craigslist, but it's a no lose way to get a little extra cash for jeep/x/truck parts or for the club. If you hunt or are thinking about hunting shed antlers give good insight as to the size and quality of game animals within that area. It's also a great tactic to keep track of how a specific animal grows. I've heard of people have a record deer on their wall with that deer's shed antlers from years before next to it. Very cool stuff.
There won't be a single trip but many trips throughout the spring. Assume 1-2 trips per month from February though May. Unlike many other states Arizona has no season start date for antler hunting, they just ask that if you head out late winter/early spring you give animals more space than normal as they could be weak from winter and any unnecessary stress could in fact kill them. It's a great way to get a good workout, camp with some good friends, and enjoy quality time with the family (great outdoor activity for the kiddos). So who's interested?
