Here is my initial list of core gear. I consider using some of my existing stuff, much of which is over 10 years old. I will test it on day hikes.
Core weight: probably over 40 lb.
Pack
Dana Designs Arcflex Alpine (XSmall) - 9 lbs - probably too heavy but it's so comfortable!
Shelter
LLBean Microlight 2-man tent (10 years old) - 4 lbs. They have improved it since I bought it; the latest version weighs 3 lbs. At the time I got it, it was a big improvement over my 7 lb 3-man tent.
Sleeping Bag - North Face Cat's Meow +20deg - Women's Regular - 2 lb 10 oz
Sleeping pad - Thermarest Neo-Air - 47 in long - 9 oz
Ground cloth - 8'x10' plastic painter's drop cloth - 4 oz
Food and Water
MSR Hyperflow Water Filter - 7.8 oz
MSR Whisperlight Internationale Stove - 11.5 oz
MSR 20 oz fuel bottle - 20 oz fuel plus 5.25 oz bottle
Pot - REI Ti ware teapot 0.8 liter - 4.6 oz
Plastic Spork - 1 oz
Electronics
GPS - Garmin Oregon 450 - 6.8 oz with batteries
Emergency Rescue - SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger - 5.2 oz
Cell Phone - Blackberry Curve 8900 - 3.9 oz
Guides and Entertainment
Official CT Guidebook
Official CT databook
Paperback novel
National Geographic/Trails Illustrated Map
Small pad and pen
Compass
Plus medical kit, Swiss army knife, clothing, water bottles, food, firestarter, lots of ziplocs and garbage bags, small plastic trowel and toilet paper, keys, wallet, cash...
