Just to confuse you a little more, you may want to look at the new Pentax K10D as it's a weather-sealed body and has in-camera image stabilization. It may save you some coin and seems to be a nice camera.
I don't know the Canon line (other than that they're fine cameras). Since you're out in the wilderness with your camera, I'd suggest a weather-sealed body and lens. I know Canon has them as well, but I don't know which Canons have it.
Good luck, and happy hunting!
Russ