Ignoring the downsides (Hops: buy vs. grow), how would one grow hops in their backyard?

I know that it grows 30 feet tall and that you cut it to the ground in the winter, but how do you get started with growing your own plants?

How long would it take and how many plants would you need if you wanted to brew one small batch of beer each year from your home grown hops?

I live in the north-east. Is it even practical here?