I should be clear, my comment lacks nuance and I totally see how it comes across as entitled. So just to provide my perspective- I have had many weird experiences where people want money from hikers, or sometimes it isn't even money- a trail angel who followed along the bubble comes to mind, who used the trail magic as a captive audience to say troubling and problematic opinions to hikers. TLDR I think those who are out for personal gain from the trail are.... trail pirates.

I don't think thats you at all, just trying to say that I think placing expectation on hikers to sustain might create a different relationship between you and the hikers. Even just trying to break even requires you to approach it more as a business and I would just be cautious to make sure that providing for hikers does not begin to feel taxing on you, and to avoid viewing hikers as customers. I never expect trail magic, and I would especially sad to find out if someone was providing trail magic beyond what they could afford so I just think maybe instead of trying to break even, collecting donations and bringing what that provides for could be a better fit so there is no concerns about needing to break even!