Thanks for the warning.

It is going to be a 3 days/2 nights backpacking trip.
So Far, I have decided not to bring a poncho.

Instead, I am bring my:
Ski Jacket... Poly shell waterproof and wind proof with hood
Poly shell pants (got it a Walmart) as rain pants and since it is oversize I can double up for warmth.
A Golfer's Umbrella
Magellan Nylon Convertible Cargo pants (very thin and lightweight but quick drying).
One UnderArmor Coldgear Turtleneck (too warm for hiking, but good for base camp).
One UnderArmor T-Shirt
One UnderArmor Long Sleeve t-shirt
One Cotton T-Shirt
One poly type material ski mask that can be folded into a hat.
Three pairs of socks
Two pairs of underwear
Two Hiker Poles (SwissGear from Walmart at $10 each)
Energy bars, Almonds and 1lb of Beef Jerky.

After reading about the trail condition, I am going to leave the Weather Radio in the car.
Also leaving (the group agreed upon) 3 cans of beer and just bring a flask with a couple of packs of crystal light water bottle mix.

So far, Just my base weight (Tent (4.5), Pack (6), Sleeping Bag (2.5), and Pad (1)), I am at 14 lbs.

My goal is 25 lbs before water (2 Liters).
The Group of 6 will have a Purifying system as well as a Filtering system and a stove and propane. (Yet to be assigned.)

So maybe I should aim for 20 lbs.
Been hiking level ground for 3 miles at 31 lbs. I would like to get lighter than this.
BTW, I was kidding about the umbrella. hehe