RE: needing gear
im an alaskan, and also have an opportunity to be a packer this fall in the brooks range, moose caribou bear and sheep, i agree with the list presented by wyomingtimberghost, for a pack i would go with an exterior frame bag, because an interior-frame has a lot less room and support, and is harder to strap things to.
a water filtration kit/iodine pills are pretty much a must if you dont have to pack water up with you, where i sheep hunt in the alaska range, we dont usually filter the water once we get into the mountains, and havent caught anything yet, but its always a good idea
i like softer soled boots when i gert in the mountains, but thats personal preference, (my first sheep hunt, i took a pair of cross trainer nike shoes up there and walked the sole off one of em, had to duck tape it back on)
i know its kinda a no brainer, but BRING A CAMERA, disposable or digital, it doesnt add much wait, and youll appreciate the photos later, when your friends dont believe how beautiful it really is up there
hope i helped out a lil bit, good luck on your trip