kids

Our overnight bushwalk up Mt Solitary in the Blue mountains was a great success. It was a fun time exploring the bush with the kids and doing Bear Grylls (Man vs Wild) impersonations. We think that Daniel (6) may be youngest to summit and camp up there. It was a big effort for the kids to do the scrambling up the knife edge and we found the climbing was their favourite part. I guess there are no surprises there.

We playing with a new toy the Go Pro Hero cam (HD) to give a bit of a different perspective for the video.

It's been too long since I've had some outdoor goodness thanks to more back surgery. So it's time get out and take my 6 yo on an overnight hike. He's done a fair bit of car camping but just one bushwalking trip with only 15 minute walk, but this time it's different. It's about a real hike, albeit an easy one. It's a chance to do some real walking and scrambling and stay out under the stars bushwalking style. There'll be no soft comforts like big tents with camp kitchens or camping trailers here (so of course Dion won't be coming).

We've got some friend's kids (8 and 11) coming along (and their mum) which will help with the motivation along the walk when Daniel gets tired plus they'll provide a fun atmosphere all around - share the bushwalking love I say (read as "convert those smelly dirt bike riding kids to real bush adventure").

I've selected a short and simple walk - Mt Solitary return via the Golden Staircase on Narrowneck plateau in the Blue Mountains. Here's my reasons:

1. I've done this trip many times with friends and newbies (it was even my first overnight bushwalk - done solo)
2. It's physically easy with a brief bit of fun scrambling up Mt Solitary (about 7km each way)
3. There are campsites along the way meaning if he gets too tired we can bail early
4. It's interesting with a bit of a climb, some caves and good views of the Jamison valley

Now off to find some gear and get us both sorted!

This short video shows how we make a 'Gypsy' swing from a couple of trees, a rope and a tarp. It's easy to set up and the kids (and adults) enjoy it at any campsite.

Keeping kids active on a camping trip makes things go a lot more smoothly. Most of the time they don't need much encouragement as there is plenty to do. Our 11-year-old son picked up a coconut while we were on the beach and spent the next half hour trying pry it open. I thought it might be another activity to put up your sleeve for your next camping trip in case things get a little slow.