based on https://bedrockandparadox.com/2020/08/12/faq-so-i-want-to-start-packrafting/, a sort of skill tree for backpacking building up to a thru hike (i.e. multi-stage w/resupply, 10+ days, not necessiary a long trail but could be)
- read a lot and watch a lot of youtube videos, obsess, but don’t buy any gear yet
- put together your ten essentials, take a bunch of day hikes. work up to longer hikes. see: https://www.adventurealan.com/train-for-hiking-backpacking/
- figure out your footwear - get to the point where you can hike all day without blisters (or with blisters that you’re managing successfully)
- borrow a basic sleep setup: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping bad - try not to buy yet! - and go camp overnight a few times. hike loops from the campground, but camp by your car, untill you feel comfortable in a tent.
- take a wilderness first aid course. put together your first aid kit (don’t buy a pre-made kit!) and practice using the things in it
- if you can: borrow gear and go on a short overnighter (hike a couple hours, camp, hike back). practice packing, unpacking, setting up and breaking down camp, filtering water, cooking food, etc. eat backpacking food. figure out what you like.
- acquire the Big Three: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpacking tent. Go as light as you can afford (not DCF, it’s not worth it yet). Buy used if you can - r/ulgeartrade is great
- put together your complete hiking kit sans pack - see Skurka gear lists
- figure out the weight/volume of your full kit, and now buy a pack. splurge. your best bet is probably an HMG pack from REI because you can return it if it doesn’t fit you right. Cottege gear is even better but worse return policy, you may need to sell on ulgeartrade
- go on some overnighters with your fancy new gear.
- get a map and compass and learn how to use it (see Skurka). you don’t necessarily have to go off trail but think about it, it opens up options. and you need to know how to stay found.
- buy CalTopo or Gaia and learn how to use it.
- plan and execute a big trip: 3-7 days. an established trail with a FarOut guide is a great choice here, easy navigation, community, shelters somtimes, easier-ish logsitics. PNW rec: Timberline Trail
- plan and execute a multi-stage (resupply) trip. TRT or JMT are great options.
- Go on a thru hike, if you want.