GHW3 Loc: San Antonio, TX

Headed out to Big Bend in May and want to take my 150-600 as well as a couple other lenses. We will be hiking in moderate to rough terrain and I am looking for a good harness that will work well with the large lens that will also work with a backpack/hydration system because of the long hikes. Reality tells me I will be mostly using my smaller lenses and the big lens will be in the pack, but should we stumble on something, I need to be able to harness the large lens that weighs about 6 pounds.

I know this can't be a unique situation for most nature photographers so I would appreciate as much advise on equipment and hacks as I can get.

woodworkerman Loc: PA to FL

Hiking with that will be a real challenge. Find some way to enclose that in quality padding 'just in case.' Big Bend is wonderful to photograph. Do be aware that mountain lions and bears and snakes are part of that park. If you are going to be hiking in their habitat, at least take some good bear spray if not some kind of "carry" (if allowed).

woodworkerman Loc: PA to FL

I forgot, on your long road trip down there, watch for wildlife. I saw lots of tarantulas and road runners. Who knows what else you might see on that road. Drive slowly enough to scout with your eyes. Also, it there is 'any' rain, flash flooding and road washes are something to be alert for. You probably know this, but this is the only U.S. mountain range that is entirely enclosed within the same National Park.

rydabyk Loc: Florida Panhandle

Traditional camera backpacks never worked well for me. I need water when hiking so I really wanted the hydration pack. I have an Osprey Talon 22L and an Osprey Manta 36L Backpack both of which I really like. I use a camera bag insert for the camera gear that I carry with me. They also have compression straps on the side with a pocket that I strap my travel tripod in. I'd suggest checking out an REI or any other hiking store near you and take the camera gear that you plan on carrying. Here is one review for the Talon 22L http://www.photographyreview.com/reviews/osprey-talon-22-backpack-review

One more thing about backpacks, they're kinda like back yard sheds, the bigger one you get the more stuff you tend to put in them. Mine are just big enough to carry my camera gear and some basic essentials like snacks, small first aid kit, headlamp etc.

Good luck with your search, I'd be interested in what you finally end up with.

whatdat Loc: Del Valle, Tx.

Don’t know if you have been in Big Bend before; unusual, but have been in the lower desert there in April & temperature hit 102. Like I said, pretty unusual but would keep eye on wx forecasts. I canceled a rafting trip there last November because the forecast was low 20’s at nite to low 30’s days; also unusual. Still, you should be fine if temps are in usual range. Especially since you won’t be getting wet. So, enjoy.

whatdat Loc: Del Valle, Tx.

It is a beautiful place. Really good photo opportunities. Go & enjoy.

mizzee Loc: Boston,Ma

On the big lens, when you come across “something” while hiking, will you have enough time to haul it out of your pack, change lenses, set up the mono or tripod and get the shot? Never mind the weight and awkwardness factors... seems like a lot for a just in case shot. If you’re going to be in one place, near your transportation, then use the big lens. I took all my gear on a National Parks tour and only used 2 of the 5 lenses I brought.

eardoc

Fstop Tilopa with internal camera unit (ICU) to accommodate your lens. Expensive. Very well made. Versatile. Pocket for a hydration system. Room for clothes, food, etc. if you don't insert the largest ICU. Easy to attach a tripod (center back or on the side). Add a pair of gatekeeper straps for top or bottom carries.

https://fstopgear.com/products/packs/tilopa

I have no relationship to Fstop. I just like their products and quality.

GHW3 Loc: San Antonio, TX

Thanks! I actually hatve a great hydration pac that also has enough room for my gear. I just found a heavy duty clip that attaches to one of the pack shoulder straps made by Peak Design, Capture Camera Clip ($69.99) that will allow me to have the camera at the ready and not swinging around while not having to deal with the strap around my neck and keeping both hands free. The clip mounts on most straps and belts less than 2.5" wide. I will give this a try an repost the results.

TonyBot

My opinion, but ...
Unless you're planning on seeing birds or wildlife, I wouldn't worry about the big guns. My own hiking/non-technical climbing was usually just one lens (24mm prime or 24-70 zoom) and maybe a 100 or 135 prime and/or a really good ("L" class) 75-300. Never once wished for something larger. Save the weight and go for the extra hydration/nourishment.