The reason I was looking at the Aether 70 was per local outfitter suggestion plus the fact am potentially going to do the AT within a few years. But I am thinking the Aether 60 or maybe smaller. I am wanting light but I'm not sure about Ultra- Light.

I am picking up books as I can, I am big into planning and researching before I buy items such as gear. It is hard deciding since there is so much out there.