Sounds like you have the gear or at least in the ballpark. Might also consider going on a nice weekend or when weather gets nicer in late Feb. or into March. Going with someone who is experienced would be nice, but not necessary. You can pick up good info here. I started on my own, close to home in nicer weather, mostly because I did not have most of the gear like a warm bag, just had to think about the situations that might come up, that way, when the toes get froze you will remember that. A fire is nice but not necessary.