Things to consider when planning a backpacking or hiking trip.

Define the trip
    Length of time
    Objective
    Target audience
    Date
        Holidays
        School events
Factors to consider
    Weather
        Daytime high
        Nighttime low
        Ice/rain slickness
        Wind
        Lightning exposure
        Fog
    Time of year
        Length of daylight
        Storm seasons
    Group size
    Getting there
        Travel time
        Parking
            Overnight
            Safety
            Security
        Drivers
        Vehicles
            Passengers
            Cargo
            Capability
        Roads/requirements
        Restaurants
    Group abilities
        Fitness
        Medical limitations
        Training
        Leaders
    Equipment
    Permits
    Restrictions
    Loop vs. Point to point
    Extraction points/routes
    Terrain
        Rocks
        Steepness
        Water hazards
        Exposure
    Vegetation
    Varmints
    Navigation
        Level of difficulty
        GPS/compass
        Maps
    Aestetics
        Views
        Points of interest
    Daily logistics
        Start/end times
        Distance
        Campsites
        Water supplies
        Altitude change
    Crowds