Yeah, handhelds would probably work if its just the two of us. I'd recommend just biting the bullet and buying a CB if its between the two though, since that is the standard for most clubs, rallys, etc. I think I picked my CB and antenna up for less than $100, and spent a day running cables, drilling holes and fabbing up a bracket for the rear. Pretty easy install, and I put the radio unit/mic in my center cubby box. I can take some pics if you are interested. You could also scoop up a handheld CB, but the range isn't quite as good (plenty for trail runs though).
The rods go on pretty easy, but get some silicone spray for them. Don't pull on the rod itself, just wedge a screwdriver or 90 degree pick under the rubber portion, and pry it off evenly. I hear a golf divot replacement tool works well also. I usually just throw them on the night before I leave.
If the group doesn't get too large, we should definitely have time to run a couple of the trails in the area. They are all less than 4 miles...so as long as I can get us there in a reasonable amount of time we should be good. I've only been down there once though, and the directions on traildamage pretty much suck, so I can't guarantee anything. Haha.
. I don't foresee anyone getting stuck though, as it's a fairly easy trail. 
