Thanks everyone for your input. I think I'll go with ivy, black eyed Sally and clematis for the walkway. Its going to be constantly maintaned so no worries about ivy getting everywhere else. Thanks again!
Thank you for all your advice!
After digesting just about every Thinkpad T and X model I think I'm going to settle for a T440p as my main work machine and a X220/X230 (with keyboard swap) as an ultra portable. Just waiting for the right deals on used thinkpads in my country.
Will surely hike up there once I get some better clothing. Wolf furs take so long to craft!