Of course! Preparation is definitely recommended, meaning you should be physically active beforehand and make sure you are in good physical condition. But, it is better if you go backpacking in a group with experienced leaders, because they will support you all the way! My first backpacking trip in the Sawtooths was a "test run" to see if I could handle an extended trip. That trip was just a weekend long but since I loved it, I decided to go on a backpacking trip to the California coast in the spring! I've never been on a backpacking trip I didn't enjoy, as it is a unique and exhilarating experience.