Sometimes the most challenging experiences create the most treasured memories.
We were nervous about attempting a 10-mile hike and a multi-day camping trip to one of the most remote places in the Grand Canyon with our 3-year-old daughter. Would it be too much for her, or for us? Here's how our adventure unfolded, in the hope that it helps other families considering a similar challenge with young children.
Magical waterfall moments
After 10 miles of hiking through the desert sun, that first glimpse of Havasu Falls was truly breathtaking: turquoise water cascading down travertine terraces, with our campground just around the corner. We explored caves at the base of the falls, walked along the edges of the terraces and caught tadpoles in shallow pools. We even set up our hammock there while my daughter took an unusually long nap in her carrier.
Unexpected joys
My daughter found endless entertainment swinging in our hammock, and she stayed fearless during the vertical climb down to Mooney Falls. While I nervously navigated caves, chains and worn wooden ladders with her securely buckled into my carrier, she was having the time of her life!
With nothing but a paper plate and a backpacking trowel, she created "dirt apple pie with mustard sauce" for dinner. And the local Havasupai people were incredibly welcoming, offering her gifts, toys and snacks.
Challenging moments
The toughest part was the 10-mile hike in: 8 hours in total. We would have loved for her to hike more on her own, but progress was painfully slow when she was out of the carrier. She wanted to play in the dirt and explore bugs rather than cover ground. By the time we reached camp we were exhausted, while she was bursting with energy from being carried all day. As we set up camp and gathered water, she entertained herself by declaring my hiking stick her "rocket."
My heart sank whenever she asked, "When are we going home?" Was I pushing her too far out of her comfort zone, or was she simply asking about the plan? On top of that, we had all come down with sore throats just before the trip, and our low energy kept us from reaching Beaver Falls.
Was it worth it?
Absolutely! Despite the 10-mile hike with a young child, the sickness and the exhaustion, the magic of those waterfalls and the memories we made were priceless. April was perfect weather-wise, and having mules carry our gear let us bring a few luxuries that made camping more comfortable.
Watching my daughter's fearlessness at Mooney Falls, her creativity making "dinner" out of dirt, and the kindness of the locals made this bucket-list adventure completely worthwhile. Sometimes the most challenging experiences create the most treasured memories.
— Sonia Meyer, Family Adventure Squad team member and avid caver