Lightweight backcountry tripod for big prime lenses

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How do you plan on using the tripod in the field? If you're going camping, would you already have a chair? Something to consider is that if you're going to be stationary for quite a while, it might be easier to set up a chair + tripod at a much lower height than you would be standing. And with a lower height, you may be able to effectively support a heavy lens with a lighter weight tripod than usual, by only extending the strongest portions of the legs. Shooting waterfowl and shorebirds a few months ago, I was using my Peak Design travel tripod at the second lowest setting while sitting on the ground. Not glamorous, but extremely lightweight and portable.
 
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There is no substitute for a sturdy tripod with a gimbal head. The Jobu Jr. is a good lightweight option.

For tripods any non-full size tripod will be a compromise. You can stabilize a lightweight tripod by hanging weight under it. Your pack may be an ideal weight to use.
 
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A 7-lb lens on a multi-day hiking & camping trip, unless there are some other arrangments, ie. hired sherpa or motorized transportation, that much weight is a non-starter. I would look at other options such as Sony RX-10 or Sony RX-100, just to be on the safe side.

Oliver
 
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