Nice post JP. I may be going to Oregon next year to do some hiking with guys I grew up with. We go on a trip out west every 3 or 4 years. We have done the Wind River Range in Wyoming twice. Trips to the Sierra Nevada and Colorodo which I couldn't make. A 10 day trip in Montana and most resently a 14 day trip in Idaho.
I know the feelings you are talking about with wanting to go with your son. I took my son, David, on his first backpacking trip about a year and a half ago in the Ozarks (in February). He had a great time even in cold water stream crossings that almost came up to his waist.
I recommend to start with car camping trips and day hikes with a kid Julians age before tackling an overnight backpacking trip.
By the way, when are you going to post your AR training story from last week? I made up for missing the bike ride by doing 37 and a half miles this Saturday doing the full loop around Lake Maumelle. Did I tell you I hate dogs when I'm bikin'?
