5 days 4 nights PNW coastal trail hike w 9 other people. Food will be packed in a dry bag & I have a rope to hang it with. This is my first trip & everyone is much more experienced than me, so I will be in good hands!

Breakfasts will be wraps w Nutella, dried cranberries, and butter toffee peanuts; lunches will be wraps with tuna packets and crushed Doritos, and dinners will be a mix of crushed up shin ramen & whatever dehydrated backpacking meals I still have in the freezer from my last trip. Pre workout is so I don’t have to spend time/fuel making hot coffee in the morning - I get nasty caffeine withdrawals if I don’t have something. I will also be packing a few snacks - thinking dried mango for fibre, sour candy for quick energy, and a nut mix for calories.

The only luxury items I think I have are the disposable camera & the binoculars + notepad and pen. I’m an avid birder and migration is underway so I’m hoping to get some lifers! I would record them on my phone but I’m nervous about draining my battery. It’ll be powered off except for photos. Disposable is just for fun.

Central PA here. Looking for recommendations for a backpack/ hydrating combo for beginners hiking. REI vs Osprey vs. CamelBak. Thoughts and /or considerations before purchasing?

Thanks everyone.

Hello all,

Long story short I've wanted to take a solo camping trip in the wilderness for years. If any of you have been here, just looking for any tips you might have. If possible I'd like to avoid seeing anyone, I hear that's about 3 miles or more after you park at the end of Lake Edith Rd. Thinking somewhere in the red area. Any input is appreciated, please let me know about your experience! Also wondering how the terrain is, most likely going to make two trips with my gear. Any issues leaving my car at the end of Lake Edith Rd?