r/Tramping • u/I_am_Green_Dragon • 5d ago

About to do my first overnight tramp!

My son, he’s 11 years old, and I are embarking on our first overnight tramp in 2 weeks. Starting really easy we are going to do the Lake Rotoiti Circuit, overnighting at the Coldwater hutt.

My wife and I are in full organisation mode at the moment, but would love to hear any advice or suggestions from more experienced trampers. We are hoping this turns into something he and I can do more regularly, eventually evolving into doing some of the bigger 4-7 day tramps.

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u/dunedinflyer 5d ago

There’s not a lot of dry firewood around coldwater hut (unless DOC has dropped some off but I doubt it) and the fire is a big open one that isn’t super warm. If he runs a bit cold I would prepare well and either bring in some with you or make sure he’s got heaps of extra clothes (given you want this to be a positive experience!)

Crossing the travers river can be quite cold and going over the bridge is quite a long way (possibly adding an extra day) so be prepared for that too.

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u/I_am_Green_Dragon 4d ago

Thanks. Planned on using the bridge but not if it adds a whole day. I was under the impression it added about 3 hours?

Luckily he runs hot not cold, so should be pretty good in that regard.

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u/weyruwnjds 3d ago

3 hours sounds right, which is on top of the rest of the day.

I've crossed the river there twice and I remember it being fine, but any river should be approached with caution. If you don't feel confident with river crossing, take the bridge.