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I'm looking to take my 10-year old son on his first backpacking trip in the next few weeks (October). Finally, after raising the kids up a little, I may be able to get back into it!

We'd want filterable water and nothing too long, although he's in good shape and so am I, he's still 10. I'm an experienced backpacker (yukon, colorado, canada, all over Arizona including lots of Grand Canyon hikes). I'm thinking for his first trip, maybe 5 miles tops, no more than 1,000 foot elevation change would probably be best.

It also would be nice to avoid the cooler weather up above 7000 feet this time of year, but we have good clothing and bags so if that's where the water is, we can do that.
We'll take a few practice hikes to get him used to it and check the water situation.

I saw a few suggestions in another post for the Catalinas as the best fit but also the Santa Ritas. Any one have any fun suggestions? Thanks, and I apologize in advance if I'm re-hashing something that's been asked 1000 times before.

Head up Romero Canyon to a couple miles past the pools. If it isn't taken, and it probably won't be, there is a nice site under some oak by the creek with water. Watch for poison ivy.

Thanks!

What about the Lemmon Rock trail and the junction with the Wilderness of Rock Trail #44 at Lemmon Creek. Dependable water even with our current lack of rain?

When my daughter was 10, her first backpacking trip was up Bear Canyon to 7 falls. Then past the falls you are allowed to camp. Bear Creek generally has water in it. Another good one for kids is to ride the Sabino Tram to the end of the road. Then hike to Miner's Pool and Hutch's Pool. Romero Canyon sounds good, too. Wilderness of Rocks may be getting a wee bit chilly about this time of year. I prefer that area in summer.

We made a test run up Sabino Canyon last week and there is plenty of water, so we'll go camp out by Hutch's pool. Thanks!

Sounds very fun!

I was actually going to suggest Hutch's. Have a great time (...or I hope you did!)