Tomman, Great Question! I admire you for setting out at 76.
I would have gone with a ULA Catalyst pack (made in the USA 3lbs) over my heavy Gregory pack. My Gregory is great but 3lbs vs. 5lbs 9 oz can make difference over time. I would have gone with a Big Ag Fly creek or tarp tent which are around 2lbs. Aqua Mira drops are way better than a pump. Invest in a good sturdy hiking shoe. Your shoes or boots should be about a half size larger than street shoes for going down hill. I took
trekking poles and I would do it again!!!! Micro spikes for Ice early on or late for Sobo's like myself.
I should have invested in Gators. I would have used a smaller stove, Jet Boil is good but bulky. I like Snow Peak and MSR's Iso Butane products. I would have gotten a less bulky sleeping pad. Invest in a nice sleeping bag (do your research, the Marmot Sawtooth is alot of bang for the Buck) Montbell and Western Mountaineering are cream of the crop.
I recommend Patagonia Cap three tops and bottoms or Smart wool, a down sweater or a pirma loft sweater like the Patagonia Nano Puff. My EB first ascent worked well. Go with a 1 liter Platypus bag it can hold 1 liter of water or be folded away for storage. Poweraide water bottles work well on the trail.
If you are ever in East Tennessee and need some help come over to Little River Trading company in Maryville, Myself and my co-worker Wildcat, who is a triple crowner, can help you out.
If you or anyone needs any help with gear or trail advice come visit us at
http://www.littlerivertradingco.com/location-contact/
LRTC
2408 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy
Maryville TN 37408