This past January, I took Henry on his first backpacking trip in Point Reyes and I’ve been meaning to tell you all about it.
For my birthday a couple months before, Henry had gifted me a trip-which was such a sweet gesture. It was clearly something he wanted to do together, and just needed to nudge me to make it happen.
Jared and I both backpack a lot. I go on a yearly trip with girlfriends (this fall we’re going to New Mexico!), and Jared does a lot as well especially alpine tour skiing and camping in the winter. We’ve taken the kids backpacking before when they were little, but not where they had to carry their own pack and really help in the planning and execution of everything. There’s a lot to do, and going as the only adult, I knew I’d need his help. At age 11, I knew Henry was totally ready for it.
When we arrived we started to look for a good spot to camp. They did have designated spots and it we were one of the first to arrive, so we had our pick. We set up close to the beach and bathrooms. Yes, there were legit bathrooms for the camping area, which is unusual for backpacking. A really nice surprise!
After setting up our 2 man tent, we then climbed inside to play some card games and relax a bit. The wind really started to pick up and I convinced Henry we should find a different spot. I walked down the trail a bit more, finding a better spot more tucked away from the wind and with even more privacy. We undid the tent stakes and carried the tent over to the new spot, and then our bags as well. It was a bit of a pain but didn’t take more than 20 minutes to do and I’m so glad we did because the wind only got worse at that spot! It wouldn’t have been fun to spend the night there.
We headed back about an hour before sundown so we would have time to cook up some food for dinner. I was excited to introduce him to real backpacking food. He was very skeptical, but ended up really liking it. Our favorites are Mountain House. Its freeze dried food, with boiling water you poured right into the pouch. Then you sit and wait for about 10 minutes for it to cook up. We always use the a JetBoil to boil water, it’s so quick and really lightweight. The best thing about the meals is clean up is so easy. No cups or bowls to wash because you eat right out of the pouch!
The next morning we got up early with the sun, made oatmeal and hot cocoa, and then packed up our bags. We stopped in Point Reyes Station for a big lunch and then headed home. I’m so glad he had such a great first backpacking trip. Excited to take him on more!
This was a walk-in camp yes? I’m in SF, and so I can go to this, so I’m wondering! Thanks. Looked like such a great hike. Love that area.
I’m doing a little trip with my 8 and 10 year old daughters this summer. I booked a night at a fire lookout. It’ll be a short hike in and out and I can’t wait!
I literally just booked a trip for my 12 yr old son and I at Coast camp! We’ve car camped a lot but neither of have backpacked so a little nervous, but seems with a 1 night trip and a 2 mile hike, we can do it!
I love this so much and admire you for going out as the adult in charge! That must sound crazy., I’m sure. I’ve backpacked a few time and have loved it, but I’m also slightly scared,…of the dark and of meeting up with bears or crazy people. I need to be in a group.
But, as a mother of sons, I’m envious…what a wonderful way to spend time with a child.
Happy Trails!
Love this for so many reasons.. one on one time with a kid, manageable but lots of free time, and our boys are the same age so I think you just motivated me to do some planning ❤️
I really appreciate these backpacking posts! your posts always make me feel like this is something i could do. 🙂 I’ve gone on a trip or two with other people managing it but this is a great example of what i might try to do with a friend for a first time myself! 🙂 Thanks so much!!!!
Seems like you had a wonderful time! I’ve never backpacked before so it was nice to read about someone’s first experience 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com