If you have the money look at NorthernTool.com see Tow and Go Convertable trailer Item 578130-2101 It's a nice setup but at $2000 you would have to use it alot to pay-off.
Why don't you try hiking in stages giving ones that cannot do the whole hike a chance to save face and have a turn around point. The more experienced hikers can go on ahead at the pace they want. I am sure you can find groups that will push the first or second day and join together hiking back...
You can come with me to work they have plenty of rooms and plenty of people to talk to. Sounds like you may have somethings in common. They will feed you 3 time's a day and will even lock the door for you at night.
Spend your money on the cast iron ones. The Aluminum work OK but I have had the best pies from cast iron. It takes a little practice to keep from burning them just keep trying thats the best part.
I found a nice 3 room 12x20 tent in a pawn shop. They wanted $75 for it I made an offer on it as it sat in the bag for $30 because of no return policy. I figured I can get that much use out of it for that kind of money. It had alum. exterior pole frame and what looked like a good fly, so I went...