With all of the dads taking their kids backpacking, I was starting to feel derelict! In reality, it's just taken me some time to gather/make gear. Last weekend I was finally able to take my 9yo on an overnighter in the Smokies to Big Creek, camping at Walnut Bottom. I had to use most of my motivational parenting skills on the 5.4 mile uphill portion, but she was a trooper and we had a blast. I think the high points for her were eating, sleeping, and playing in Big Creek. For me it was several hours of father-daughter conversation while hiking that would not have happened at home.
Everybody smiles at the trailhead, coming or going!
Midnight Hole, a popular swimming spot (and fun rapid to kayak w/water in the creek) about 1.5 miles in. We soaked our feet, but didn't do any cliff diving.
Camp about 50% setup. We made most of our gear, including hammocks, tarps, quilts, and packs. Sorry about the quality of the photo, it was actually getting dark-ish at that point.
My daughter wanted to be the lead on the fire. We had one, but it didn't last a long time
Walnut Bottom was closed most of the summer due to bear activity and there were still warnings in place. We didn't see nary a sign, but of course followed protocol.
Found some chestnuts that had escaped the chipmunks right before we left camp.
Our DIY packs. My daughter's is now "The Grinch", and mine is "The Lorax".
Foot soak and general waterplay before the last two miles.
We rewarded ourselves on the way home with a burger in Asheville and trip by Mast General for some candy by the pound. Already planning the next trip!
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