Input needed for a trip with my son

My son, who is a senior in high school, asked me if we could go backpacking this summer as a "last hoorah" before college. While he was in scouts we backpacked around Missouri and Arkansas but he is looking for a bigger adventure. His request is a "pine forest". My request is within a days drive of Kansas City, 16ish hrs. I would prefer something with access to filterable water so we don't have to carry a lot with us. We are looking for about a 4 day trek. He would prefer not to go to Colorado since I have spent time there hunting. He wants to go to a place neither of us have been. What do y'all suggest?

16 hours you have plenty of options.

You could go to the Appalachian Trail. You could go to the Wind River Range in Wyoming. You could go to the Porcupine Mountains in the UP of Michigan, or continue on to Isle Royale National Park.

Lots of good choices in NC. First thing that comes to mind is Panthertown. I can give you more details if you are interested.

http://www.hikewnc.info/trailheads/nanta...hertown-valley/

Red River Gorge in Kentucky

Thanks for all the input. He have decided on isle royale

Nice pick. I thought about going there this year

You won't be disappointed! Such a cool place.