Norway is a truly beautiful country, with really friendly people. It was the highlight of my 6 months in Europe! Definitely start saving, Tom!

Gladys, Indian Heaven (in Washington north of Carson) and the Olallie Lakes Scenic Area are both great places for a beginner backpack, especially in the fall after the bugs die down. Because of the late snowmelt this year they are still rather buggy, but hopefully the freeze warning for tonight will reduce the bug population a bit!