Beginner Backpacking Hikes

[gallion_t]

I've been wanting to get into backpack camping and hunting for several years now. I've finally pieced together all of the gear (except for a tent, looking to pick up a Luxe Octopeak). With the weather getting better and snow melting its time to start planning my first adventure and thats where I'm hoping you guys can help. Being completely new to this I'm looking for suggestions on where to go. My girlfriend has said she would like to join also for a 1-2 nighter. To start with our fitness level is in the OK-Average range. We've both been exercising several days a week for a couple months now.

A few wish list things we would be looking for but not necessary:

In the blue mountains (live in the tri cities and have thought it was really beautiful the couple of times I've been there)
Hot springs
So other water feature, either a creek or lake/pond)
Not crowded, I'd like to get away from people. I'm ok with going off trail at some point.
Medium length? (2-5 miles each way would be ideal)
Any other scenic things to see


Thanks in advance for suggestions. Im getting really excited about this.

[jackelope]

Pretty much no lakes in the Blues to hike to. Maybe some small streams depending how far you want to go.

[Mtnwalker]

You might take a look at the hike finder on the WTA website if you haven’t already. Most water feature hikes in that distance range will be popular this year especially but I wouldn’t let that deter you

[OutHouse]

Head up white pass and do the Cramer lake trail. Beautiful lake and typically not very crowded. I think its about 3 1/2 miles up to the lake. If you're doing a one nighter don't shy away from bringing some luxury items. Last time I did one like that strapped a small cooler to my pack with ice, makers mark, and a couple of steaks to cook over the fire. Only added several pounds which won't kill ya on a shorter hike.   

[Dslayer]

Cramer is a good choice-bring plenty of mosquito spray-don’t scrimp.

[hughjorgan]

Cramer is a good choice-bring plenty of mosquito spray-don’t scrimp.

August time frame should be better for less skeeters.

[gallion_t]

Thanks for the replies. I'll take a look at Cramer lake. I personally don't care too much about the water feature as id rather use those trips for scouting, but the girlfriend requested it.

Keep the ideas coming if you have more.

[ganghis]

If you're itching to get out sooner rather than later, your options are a bit limited since there is still snow up high for quite awhile (in some places until August).  I'd suggest just staying local and testing out your gear - the eastside is actually the place to be in spring months.  Maybe an April trip over to the Wenas area?  A lot of it burned last year but there are a number of old roads you could backpack on.  Roza creek road off of Durr road is pretty pleasant and doesn't see much use because it's eroded out pretty good - you could also bring a rifle and shoot a coyote. 

[gallion_t]

Thanks for the tip. I dont think ill get out until late may or June though. Heading to Mexico in a couple weeks then Austin a couple weeks after I get back from there. Plus the whole needing a tent before I can go still.