Sometimes it's better to just read the first post a little more carefully than the replies.... <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Amateur radio is probably overkill for you and your hiking buddies. Possibly have one amateur radio for emergencies. In an emergency, ANYONE can use the radio to call for assistance. One of you should be licensed, so you'll have a clue on which frequency to start calling for help, and what kind of radio would be suited for the job. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> I would also recommend a Wilderness First Aid course. University of Florida for example offers a 2 day course for $75, and that's the advanced course.

All those little radio's martinforcazio mentioned, is the way to go for you. Sorry I wasn't exactly paying attention when I read the post... for some reason I skipped the second paragraph! <img src="images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />