I use mine exactly for what you're thinking of, mountain/hiking/camping carry. You can't beat the 3" barrel on an N frame for when you want 44mag power at hand while hiking for miles.

Congrats on the -1. Mine is a -2E. I really like the "half" lug, fluted cylinder, and front sights of the -1 production run. However, I still think I would rather have the 103650 production run with all the "enhancement" upgrades for longer durability. However, the unfluted cylinder and full lugs adds some extra weight. I guess that's when a good holster comes in play.

I need to get some 44spl cases and start loading them that way I can enjoy shooting mine more often. I rarely take it to the range anymore because frankly it's too powerful just shooting magnums, and it's not really a "range" gun. So I think loading some 44spl will allow me to enjoy it as a range gun from time to time. Will have to keep an eye out for someone giving away or selling some 44spl brass.