FriarJohn and Chuck,
Thanks a bunch for the tips. Much appreciated! I originally wanted to hike this trail when I was nine years old, but with age came wisdom and I sure would rather have a motorcycle under me than just some hiking boots if I have to outpace a grizzly. ;-)
I've mentioned this ride to friends and so far, nobody wants to devote the 2-3 weeks it'll probably take, so at this point, I'm solo!
Thanks again, and if any more ideas occur to you, please pass them along!