The big picture: On the weekend of June 4th and 5th, the Tanki’s, a wonderful family of 4, traded in the big city lights of Atlanta for the serenity that the North Georgia mountains quietly offer.  Clara and Jeff took this peaceful but exciting journey with their adventerous little ones, Tristan (4 1/2 years old) and Chloe (2 1/2 years old) – and with me (their Sure Foot guide, Sarah).

Much Ado’ About Nothing: It was quickly apparent that these parents wanted their first backpacking trip as a family to be peaceful and flexible, but filled with opportunities to experience wonder and adventure.  After hiking in on the short but scenic trail to our camping spot, Clara and Chloe relaxed in their tent while I took the other two on an adventure to the sandy beaches along the Chattooga River.  Clara later had her own adventure with the children at the bottom of the roaring Dicks Creek Falls.

The next morning allowed us some time to re-experience Dicks Creek Falls, where Tristan and Chloe again lost themselves in the adventures that the sand, rocks and water had to offer.

Firsts: For Clara, Tristan and Chloe, this was not only their first backpacking trip, but their very first time to eat s’mores!  Yum!!

If I had to sum up this backpacking trip in three words they’d be:
Peaceful, Adventurous, and Relaxing.

I had a wonderful time with the Tanski family, especially with Tristan and Chloe – two of the youngest hikers I’ve ever hiked with…I must say they may be better hikers then some people 5xs their age!

Great job, Tanski family ; )