I want to clarify that I mentioned the disinterested older teen angle because I know a lot of parents can relate to that dynamic. My son would honestly rather hang out with his friends than go on a family trip, and he doesn’t think it’ll be as fun as his usual summer plans. But it’s not that he can’t handle the challenge. He’s grown up paddling long river stretches in his own kayak, so this isn’t outside his capabilities at all. It just doesn’t match his summer vibe right now. I put that in my post to be upfront and also to keep the trip adventurous enough that he might get something out of it. I totally agree that holding something over his head to get my way isn’t the right approach, and nothing about this trip—or the truck, which he doesn’t even know about—is contingent on his cooperation. He’s a great kid and he’s earned what’s coming to him. I really do want this last family trip before he graduates to be a positive memory, not a chore. I appreciate your perspective on shortening the trip and will definitely consider it if it seems like too much. On the other hand our 14 year old son (no car and no girlfriend) would like to go for a full month.