Hiking with kids can be a fantastic way to spend quality time together and get some exercise in nature. However, to ensure the hike is fun and safe for everyone, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some tips for a successful and enjoyable hiking day with children.
Choose the right trail
When hiking with young kids, opt for relatively flat and short trails, ideally no more than three miles roundtrip. Look for trails and paths that have:
- Clear signage and mile markers.
- Wide, even paths with no major obstacles.
- Plenty of sights and things to explore along the way, like streams, rocks to climb on, or scenic viewpoints.
Trails that form a loop or have a destination like a lake or waterfall are ideal to prevent tiredness or boredom from setting in. It’s also a good idea to pick a route that begins in or is close to a car park with refreshments and toilets nearby.
Check trail difficulty ratings and steer clear of any rated strenuous.
Prep Your Backpack
Make sure to pack ample snacks, water and layers of clothing in your backpack. Good snacks for the trail include:
- Trail mix
- Fresh fruits like apples and bananas
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Dried fruit and veggie sticks
- Granola or protein bars
- Glucose chews like Lift Glucose Activ can help with flagging energy levels.
Bring at least a litre of water per child. Pack a lightweight rain jacket for each hiker in case the weather turns. Other useful items include sunscreen, bug spray, a small first aid kit, sun hat, pocket knife, and a flashlight.
Set clear rules for the trail
Before hitting the trail, establish some clear guidelines and rules for kids to follow such as:
- Staying together on the trail unless it’s safe to run a bit ahead.
- Using inside voices to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Leaving nature undisturbed by not picking plants or moving rocks.
- Following any instructions from parents promptly.
- Avoid deep water.
Reinforce the importance of these rules for both fun and safety.
Make it an adventure
Kids will get more invested in the hike if you make it exciting and educational. Point out sights along the way and stop regularly to examine interesting things like mossy logs, animal tracks, streams, and unusual plants. Bring a field guide to engage kids in identifying species.
Sprinkle in some games like I Spy to keep them motivated to reach the endpoint. Have a fun destination payoff like a picnic lunch or camping out waiting at the end.
Pack smart clothing and footwear
Make sure kids are dressed appropriately in moisture-wicking layers, hiking boots or sturdy trainers with good traction, and have sun hats. Pack extra layers and socks in case weather shifts or they get wet crossing streams.
By selecting an age-appropriate trail, preparing essentials, and making the hike interactive, you can have an enjoyable and memorable outdoor adventure with the kids. Just remember to go at their pace, take plenty of breaks, keep it fun, and stay safe.
