Chowin' in the Uintas - Ruth Lake campfire meal.

While we’ve done a lot of car camping this year, there’s always something a little different about packing it in. We did it once last year, and while it didn’t turn out to be the greatest of trips, we thought we’d try it again. The kids are another year older, and another year independent-er. This means, in outdoorsy terms, that Tory can walk on his own a lot farther.

It was a fun, spontaneous trip that the kids loved. I’m really glad they love the outdoors as much as mom and dad do.

Scrambling up in Little Wild Horse Canyon

On day two of our recent trip to the desert we decided to explore Little Wild Horse canyon just southwest of Goblin Valley. It’s a non technical slot canyon that has a little bit of everything, except the drops and swims. I’m tempted to call this Tory’s first real canyon as he hiked nearly all of the 6 miles by himself, and did great scrambling and climbing around. I’m wondering if to call it his first there would need to be ropes and at least one rappel… but perhaps I’m over thinking it. :)

Amongst the Hoodoos. Click for more Goblins

Two previous trips were canceled by weather this spring, but we finally snuck out for a weekend in the desert. The Goblin Valley area is relatively close, and even though it’s quite busy these days it’s still a fun romp around the hoodoos. My very first southern Utah experience was here so it was great seeing the kids cavorting in the place that put me in awe.

The adventure begins with a fresh dusting of snow

What better to do on a cold Saturday than pack the kids up and go for a mass transit adventure?

The goal was simple: Walk to the bus, take it to the Canyons, ride the People Mover up to Kindersport, and then head back.

While the goal was eventually accomplished, the panache with which it was carried out left us tarred and feathered. The day went pretty smoothly for quite a while, and then it didn’t. And when you’re out and about with kids who are starting to melt down, the slide from smooth to rough is pretty abrupt.

I’ll do it again, but with the following adustments:

• Bring more snacks
• Start earlier. Return before nap time
• Walk to the closest bus stop rather than the farthest
• Get on the right bus the first time
• Wait until the weather warms
• Perhaps wait until everyone can walk on their own

Tory's first night under the stars

I know I’ve posted this image already here: Yuba Reservoir Boat Trip, but I want to remember Tory’s first nights under the stars as an event on its own. This is only important because I’m eager to return to our backcountry ways, and this is a step closer.