Round Valley Trails safe?

[tarol]

Thinking about going with my young son - is the area safe?

[phydeux]

When I hear that statement from a parent its usually means you're not satisfied unless there is no possibility whatsoever of any danger. I usually don't ovenight in the Round Valley/Tamarak Valley areas (except in winter), but I've never had a problem with other hikers or animals in the area (just take proper precautions with food storage, etc). You'd probably face more danger on the streets of Palm Springs at night than at the top of the PS Tram.

You might want to change your perspective and take your kid up for an overnight trip and show them the do's and dont's in the forest. Its a good learning experience to develop a sense of awareness so they know what's around at all times, they develop the ability to make judgement calls on what's good or bad around them, and to keep track of where they are. Its not completely 100% safe, but nothing in life is ever going get to that level except in fairy tales.

[tarol]

Well, he's much too young to make judgement calls - he's only 15 months old

I was interested in hearing from folks that have overnighted there in the summer months - what types of people might I encounter? Rattlesnakes/mountain lions? Cliffs near the edge of camp? That sort of thing.

[Florian]

You'll be safe at Round Valley. Most of the campers are either youth groups or friendly people. I've never seen a rattlesnake between the tram and RV. No cliffs. No bears. There is a mtn lion warning sign at the ranger station but as far as i know there's never been an attack in the area. It's perfect place for a first time backpack with your son.

-Florian

[Hikin_Jim]

Ditto what Florian said. There's a $5 per night charge for backpackers. As much as I hate fees, usually fee areas are nicer.

HJ

[Florian]

And since most ppl in RV come in via the tramway the $24 fare keeps the bums away. Not that there's anything wrong with being a bum.

-Florian

[tarol]

Thanks for the info

This will be his 3rd backpack trip, but I've gone with at least one other person before. This time it'll be just me and him.

[Hikin_Jim]

I think I remember your post about Heart Falls (or something like that name).

I think this will be a good one for you two.

HJ

[cynthia23]

As a mom, I understand your concerns. I think Round Valley is pretty safe as far as cliffs and falls go, and there aren't any bodies of water other than a little stream. I would keep an eye on him because there are mountain lions up there, but of course the odds of running into any are small. So long as you supervise him, it should be a great trip for both of you.