This will be my first backpacking hike, I wanted to do a section of AT but I live 13 hours away. I found the Ozark Highland Trail in Arkansas and it's only 5 hours away and I think I may do that one unless you guys may have some other suggestions...I live near Dallas. That being said, I am no stranger to rugged hiking, I did nine years of military. But, even though, I tent camp or rather hammock camp quite a lot its only one or two nights and so this will be my first 'civilian' exteneded surviving in the woods. I guess I just need some advice on how far to plan to hike a day...ten miles? That doesn't seem like a whole lot. Food, I have a dehydrator and have been doing some of that on our short one or two night trips. Water, I cannot find a definate answer anywhere but the military always said boil it and drink. I would like to think this is the case in civilian world. I might need to brush up on a little first aid and land naviagation. I build me a penny alcohol stove and just think it is the coolest thing in the world. How much food for nine days? Any and all help is much appreciated.