Hey, thanks. I appreciate your input. I do think I would want someone to hike with. Just in case. Either way, something could happen, I could get hurt, or yes have an episode. So I think that would be the best route to go.

I will definitely spend some time researching the information you gave me.

One question, how many backpacking trips do you think it would take to acquire the skills necessary? I have done quite a bit of hiking/bouldering in my life, but have never taken an actual backpacking trip. I guess I just feel it is something that calls to me.