Excellent lightweight but supportive hiking boots?

[sadlebred]

I'd head to your local outfitters store (aka an outdoor store or hiking store) to try hiking boots on. If you have an REI near you, that would work.

Personally, I hate boots and much prefer my Merrell hiking shoes.
www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/12470W/0/Womens/Siren-Sport-GORE-TEX-XCR?dimensions=0

[sadlebred]

I like the Merrells. They are not quite as supportive as the boots (ie. for your ankle), but they are really light weight. Granted, I only use them occasionally, but they have served me well. I've never had a problem on any trail I've hiked. If you think you will be getting your feet wet, they also have a model that is waterproof.

[Deleted]

REI will be super helpful. They will tell you that you need higher ankled boots for support.. especially with that kind of backpacking. BUT they take much longer to break in, so be aware of that. I have a mid rise backpacking book from columbia that is FANTASTIC.