Just had a great overnight with my two youngest kids. It was a short out and back, about 2.5 miles each day. My son is 9 and my daughter is 11. It was the second time I have taken my son and the first trip for my daughter. The night was cold at 35 degrees but we had warm enough bags and an extra blanket.
I don't have much experience backpacking myself so for me the key is to keep it simple. We went close to home, just a two hour drive to the Manistee National Forest. A short hike, only about 2.5 or 3 miles each day. The terrain was easy but there was natural beauty to keep them interested. We walked past three lakes and camped near a lake. We saw a pair of Bald Eagles on the hike out. Most importantly both kids felt like they accomplished something.
#164713 - 04/07/1203:12 AMRe: Hiking with your kids - go for it
[Re: minorth]
OregonMouse
member
Registered: 02/03/06
Posts: 6796
Loc: Gateway to Columbia Gorge
Hooray for you and your kids! Anyone who is willing to take his/her kids out is contributing a considerable amount not only to the future of backpacking but to the future of wilderness and keeping kids in touch with the natural world!
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey
#165167 - 04/21/1207:42 AMRe: Hiking with your kids - go for it
[Re: minorth]
Paulo
member
Registered: 01/27/11
Posts: 158
Loc: Normally Pacific Northwest
That's awesome. Memories they can keep forever.
Sounds like a beautiful area too.
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Without a doubt, the hardest thing of all in a survival situation is to cook without the benefit of seasonings and flavourings. - Ray Mears
That is so cool i have been wanting to get my little nicee and nephew to come with me for a hiking trip. they keep asking me to take them now ill consider it after reading this. thanks
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