SAFETY

Follow all the regular rules for hiking and camping. Especially let's emphasize:

Try to avoid going alone.
Make sure others know where you are and when to expect you back
Carry a firearm if you are comfortable, at least bear spray if not. Preferably both. This is especially important if you are alone or in a small group.
A satellite communicator like an Inreach could save your or someone else's life.
Make sure your own body and your automobile are in good shape so that if you get stuck you can walk back to the main road and get help. To this end, always have a little extra food and water.
If you're not an outdoor person, find someone who is who will teach you how to be in the woods safely.