Getting Back Into It

[Matthew Helmuth]

Hi all,

Prior to kids (and until my daughter was 18 months) my wife and I were avid backcountry adventurers. I guided canoe trips in the boundary waters and we’ve done some exploring in the Eastern Sierras since moving West. Now my son is 4 and my daughter 7, and I’m getting ready to train the littles in the way of the woods. My daughter and I will be going on our first trip here at the end of July. I sort of happened into some time off so I’m trying to cobble something together very last minute.

I did a bit of poking around on here and saw some great recommendations to other parents / trip planners. The trip that stood out to me most was out of Little Lakes Valley out of Mosquito Flats. My wife and son will be car camping behind us, and we have fond memories of camping at Rock Creek lake. I wasn’t able to readily see whether Rock Creek Lake Campground has any walk-up sites, but it looks like there are several other campgrounds along the creek that do, so that shouldn’t be a problem.

Alternatively, we could approach from the West and head out of the Florence Lake area, but I have no knowledge of that area at all. From the descriptions others have offered it seems like a delightful spot.

Any input is welcome, and any helpful reminders for someone getting back into it after being away for awhile would be appreciated, too. I’d especially welcome kid-specific gear input. What might I forget that I’ll kick myself for on the trail?

*edit* What are your favorite maps for Inyo NF / the Sierras generally? I’ve had good experiences with the Nat Geo maps, but am open to suggestions regarding the advantages of other authors.

All the best, and thanks in advance!

Matthew

[DWR D]

For paper maps: Tom Harrison Maps: https://tomharrisonmaps.com/

[Matthew Helmuth]

We settled on Little Lakes Valley, and managed to get a permit. For anyone looking to go this season all permits are by reservation through recreation.gov, and Little Lakes Valley is a popular spot!
There’s rain and thunderstorms in the forecast (60% / 50% over the next two days) but we’re just plowing ahead anyway. Fingers crossed for that unpredictable mountain weather to work out in our favor.
As I said, I haven’t been out in a long time. I think I have some work to do on my menu planning. I have my daughter’s pack weight at right around 12%, with 7lb for a 60lb kid, carrying her sleeping bag, mat, clothes, cup, headlamp, and first aid kit. My own pack is right at 31.5 with —15LB — for food, water, and bear  can. Yikes!
In any case, stoked to be getting out there and hoping for the best!

[DWR D]

You do know that being above above tree line when there is lightening is not a good place to be, right????

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