That Bogen should be a great choice, Tom (and you're thinking is dead on re: quick release). It's relatively light, can handle enough weight to satisfy your needs and Bogen/Manfrotto is a top quality manufacturer - it should last you a good long time. I recently got one of their carbon fiber tripods (055MF3) that is just awesome. It's actually lighter than the 3001, but is taller and can support more weight. Of course, it's also twice as expensive. But for me it was worth it, as I need a tall tripod and don't want to lug around a heavy tripod while hiking.
Speaking of which, I recommend you get into landscape photography. You have some amazing scenery up in the PNW to take advantage of!
