With my recently "updated" setup (including tent), that 35 pounds is close to what I would take on a weekend backpack in the desert. But I would also be carrying close to 20 pounds of water to start. This would include clothes for nights down to freezing, 20 degree bag, desert FAK, and everything else for a solo run.

I don't use hiking poles, never keep stuff in my pockets (don't like how it feels), and don't include most of the clothes and the boots I start the trek with. My new backpack has a pocket on each side that I keep snacks, camera, lib balm, and sunscreen in and THAT is included in the weight.