Starting to get into hiking. Been to several national parks in my area, but the best trails appear to be fairly far off the beaten path. This means I'm not going to go out there till I have the proper gear. I'm really wanting something pretty small and light. I will be out max 6 hours unless Mother Nature has other plans. I want the pack to either be a camelbak or be bladder ready. Storage for emergency items, gps, cover garment, etc.

The lighter the better. Conditions will typically be warm days, cool nights (southwest US). If I go out in winter I'm likely to take one of my big packs. If you have any recommendations on handheld gps I'm open for that too.


UPDATE

Went over to the local REI. They didn't have the Manta 20, only the 28. I liked them more than anything else there so I picked one up. It's very nice. Pricey, but I think in the end it will be worth it. Buy once cry once. Thanks again for all the help.

25l or so pack is a good day pack. You can always carry less and have room for more. My day pack is a Deuter ACT 24. I normally carry a first aid kit, fire kit, lightweight rain jacket, lunch and snacks, water, flashlight, navigation stuff, and whatever else I need. I have carried 15l packs but they are always packed too tight. I can always cinch the straps down on the 24l to make it smaller if needed, but have room if I need it.

http://www.deuter.com/US/us/hiking/act-trail-24-34412-119.html

Check out Osprey's Manta line. I have both the 20 and the 36 models, both are outstanding. They have a mesh back that keeps the pack off your back - very useful for warm weather hiking. Hydration system is great, and the packs are well made and intelligently designed. I was a die-hard Camelbak user until I tried my first Osprey. My Camelbaks are now gathering dust.

http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/group/mens_1/manta_series

My wife has an Osprey Raptor 12 she uses as a purse. She loves it. I still use my camelbak mule for mt biking. Like you, I choose other brands for hiking.

Interesting. This one looks better than what I was looking at thanks.

Thanks. That ones a bit spendy. Worth the extra $$$ from the comparables?

Yes, in my opinion. But check them out in person if you can. I think you will see the difference.

That osprey is really nice. I especially like the hip belt. Find an REI and start trying packs on. They have weight you can add to get the feel for them. Packs are a very personal item. Get one that fits you. I have tried several brands and Deuter is what I tend to buy. ymmv

There's an REI down the road. I'll have to head over there this week.

Camelbak HAWG from their military line.

This!

or the Blowfish.

Look at the Bad Lands packs.  They are well made and I can attest to their toughness.

Update in OP

http://www.hillpeoplegear.com/Home/tabid/1157/Default.aspx