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I'm extremely ancy to go backpacking again...the last time was 8 months ago when I was one week away from birthing my youngest daughter. Does anyone have any suggestions for places to go where I could take an 8 month old and an almost three year old? I do most of my backpacking by myself, so this time it might be a little tricky. I would like to take them out over Memorial Weekend. Any suggestions are appreciated. I don't really want to resort to car camping if I don't have to. It doesn't have to be an "easy trip" either. I'm always up for some sort of challenge...as this will most likely be.

I admire you for bringing the kids with you. Too many people use them as an excuse not to do things.

It's getting hot fast so I'd suggest something north.
I know it's car camping, but you could camp in Oak Creek Canyon (forgot the name of the campground) and day hike up the edge to Vulte Arch from the campground, or day hike West Fork down the road from the campground. Kids always love creeks.
You could also backpack up See Canyon following Christopher Creek for a mile or so (near Payson) or even camp at the trailhead by the creek and day hike up the canyon. For more of a challenge you could start at the top on Rim Road 300, hike down and then back up.

Have fun, be safe, and let someone know where you are going and when you'll be back.

There are a number of good trails for easy backpack trips in the Mogollon rim area, one of my first was east of Strawberry at Fossil Springs. There is also a place called box canyon that can serve as a good first trip (but it is very steep, so you may want to consider something else, thats up to you) There are also a number of good books out there that focus entirely on backpacking with children. For some reason thats the bulk of what Bookmans has in their backpacking section this week...

I too commend you for getting out with your kids. Not so much for your own sake, but for your kids. The earlier you get your kids out the more they will appreciate (and protect) our wilderness lands.

Kudos.

I would also suggest Fossil Springs or the West End of West Clear Creek. I have 7 children ranging in ages from 11-26. We have always backpacked. Everyone at every age. West Clear Creek and Fossil Springs (the Flume trail) always went over well with everyone.

I agree with Cindi, I have taken many children to both, West Clear Creek and Fossil Springs, the temps right now are just about right. Fossil creek may be just a little cooler.

Thank you for your suggestions. I've been to Fossil Springs countless times. I go there about 4-5 times a year...but, I've never done it with children. As I think I stated, my oldest is not quite 3 years, and my youngest is only 8 months. I'm not sure if I can handle all of my gear plus two girls on that type of hike. Memorial Day weekend at Fossil Springs generally gets pretty crowded. I tend to like a little more seclusion. I believe when you speak of West Clear Creek, you're referring to the Bull Pen area? I've also been there, though it has been numerous years. If I recall correctly, there aren't many camping sites unless you go in about 5-7 miles. I also recall at least a few creek crossings, I'm just not sure if I can drag a three year old across with a baby strapped to my front. This hike did cross my mind yesterday while contemplating a few places to go. I'll take any suggestions...I still have a week to decide. Thank you for these suggestions thus far.