That looks like a great spot to go for a first trip, you're going to have a blast.

TomD's advice is good. That looks close to a typical "Ozarks" trail. That'd be one that heads uphill going both ways and gets steeper no matter which way you go. So, if you haven't walked much lately, you and your boy should both start getting a few miles in now, a few times a week, if you can. That will make a huge difference in how you do on the trail.

If the weather forecast for that area predicts even a slight chance of rain on the days you'll be there you are positively going to want rain gear. I trust the forecast for about 48 hours, and that's it. Be sure to check it the day you leave and adjust as necessary.

If you don't have anything now, those cheap plastic "Rain Ponchos" you can find in the Wal-Mart/K-Mart camping sections will work pretty darn good, and way better than nothing. Take a spare for each of you though, they tear pretty easy but, on the plus side, they are very lightweight.

For me, six miles a day on a trail like that is about all I'd want to do. That'll give you time to stop and rest and poke around a bit. You'll be hiking on the ridge tops where you should have some spectacular views and down into and along some creek beds where there is bound to be some great trees and rock formations.

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I know you'll be with a group, but here's something for just you and your son...

Bring a few coins (or any bit of treasure) with you. When you get to a good spot take him aside and give it to him. Ask him to find a spot for you both to hide it. Afterwards, tell him that if either of you ever return to that spot you will find it and add another coin or bit of treasure.

I did this with my children when we went hiking. It was my hope to create memories that would last them a lifetime.

My kids are all grown up now and it seems to have worked. They still go hiking, sometimes even with me, and now there are a few spots where we've got quite a nice little cache of treasure that we've been adding to, one bit at a time, for years.

Bill