Golden: Bear can is not required at all on a day hike. Marmots will not run off with a pack -- they just chew holes it them.
But... if you start early in the morning when it's dark, do NOT set your pack down anywhere and walk away from it. Bears lurk in the dark, and when a pack is set down, they will sneak in, grab it and run! This occurs in the campground and parking lot areas at the Portal.
Stacy: I think you will be happy with the stove. Be sure to get a good lighter. The tablets take a little time to light. Now be sure to get the right-sized pot or cup. Cups smaller than the 600 ml don't fit on the stove. One last thing: When the tablets burn, they leave a brown residue on the bottom of the cup or pot. It comes off easily with plain water and rubbing a little.
