Bacalhau
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Hey RBark,
between here at FM and POTN, this is a ongoing talk/quest./debate/issue, and if you read some of the existing related threads, you will find a lot of useful information.
With that said, and since you seem to be already a hiker/backpacker, your path is to customize your existing pack, and probably add a chest carrier or some other gizmo for the camera itself, if it's important to have access to it at all times.
Nothing beats a proper fitted backpack - but, you'll have to compromise, either with lens wraps, pouches and/or soft cases/inserts/ICU's
Snow packs allow for rear access, but they are not made to carry 50 pounds in comfort , and I believe the largest is 45 liters.
There is a bag that features a bag insert slide in and out from the bottom using the hip belt - thus, having access to camera without removing bag; also not a backpacking bag
F-Stop are made as one size fits all - some fitting issues will arise, and the hip belt is badly placed, as it does not allow for proper weight transfer.
Click and Lowepro are good bags....for short day hikes around the park.
as far as holding the camera outside the bag, it would help if you describe what type of gear you want to carry.
Chest packs are cumbersome, but do the job very well. OTOH, some of the clip designs are not meant for larger rigs i.e. peak design click did not work well for me with a 1DsmkIII and sigma 24-105
Cotton carrier offers hands-free carrying, but it will make you sweat and looks a bit odd completely exposed - like you wearing a bullet vest. There are few copy-cats for less money, but you might be able to remove part of the webbing and attach id directly to backpack's D rings ( I am working on this btw)
You need also to rethink your gear and trips - for instance, carrying an efficient and fast filter vs tons of water if your route has plenty of water sources; ditch the tent for a tarp in the summer months, if no rain is in the forecast.
Ultimately, safety comes first, and then it's toss between comfort and carrying extra camera gear (at least for me)
(I will make it short and stop now, because you will end with a lot of feedback anyway from others with more experience than me)
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) though you could also add a neoprene cover to your camera/lens or indeed take a Tupperware box of the right size, cut away one end and file it to make the edges smooth, then slide this into the pocket to use as a camera/lens protector.