HikeArizona.COM

A friend and I are wanting to give our 2 13 year old boys a "coming of age" solo for 48 hours. I have hiked Sedona and other areas many times but am not very familiar with other places. WE are hoping to give them a SAFE experience but with a sense of being alone together - near a river or stream so they can bathe, fish etc. Some have discouraged me from doing this but I would cherish this experience for my son -despite the naysayers. If you have some ideas in Coconino Forest or Verde River or Superstition or Mcdowell Mountains I would love to hear from you.

many thanks Graeme Swan

Idea, but probably only if the adults are close behind. Aravaipa is so closely permit-controlled, you know? I wonder if that idea would go over with the rangers.

@chumley
thanks very much - thinking of West Clear Creek -trail 31 april?

Graeme

Respondents

Thank you for the many suggestions and cautions. A note....yes there are 13 year olds and 13 year olds. However, not all 13 year olds have hiked long distance treks in England at age 10 (with pack), camped in remote BC mountain areas with snow covering tents at 8000 feet, worked in 38 degree heat in a Belizean orpanage or travelled to African countires in service to others. He can start fires with a flint, uses an axe safely, and is in superb physical condition as an elite athlete. I take it AR is unique with it's very dangerous elements, but there are many responsible kids in the world that have made tough decisions and have had to endure tough conditions. This learning is transferable. Yes camping near is a great suggestion and likely our choice. But all those naysayers, prepare your children and then give them opportunity to grow up! These same people also said to us,"Take your kids to work in an orphanage in Kenya for a month, while living in primitive conditions., are you kidding"? Five star living is for those who want to remain distant both from the beauty/ savagery of the natural world and from the needs of others. So thank you again for all the advice - MOST of which we really appreciate and will take counsel from. I know you have our interests at heart so I will continue to listen and learn.

@azbackpackr
thanks for the suggestions -appreciated- camping nearby seems to be the best option for giving them a good independent experience but within some degree of supervision.Graeme

@johnlp
thanks for comments- I certainly appreciate the warnings and concerns and it is helping to clarify what we can provide for them and what may not be wise. This is why I came to this forum to hear from folk more experienced - and this has been the case.