After my recent post about hiking the challenging Lake Haiyah in Colorado with our kids, I’ve received a lot of questions about how to start hiking with children. Parents want to know how to motivate their kids for hikes, and I’m here to help! My husband and I have been hiking with our girls since they could walk, and we’ve gathered plenty of tips for enjoying the outdoors with little ones. I hope this post inspires you to explore the trails with your kids, no matter their age.
Hiking with kids is more than just a stroll in the park—it’s an experience filled with discovery, laughter, and unforgettable moments (along with a few complaints!). Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, this guide will help you transform family hikes into enjoyable escapes that everyone will cherish.
So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a family adventure! I’ll guide you on how to choose the right trail, keep hiking fun for little legs, and tackle common challenges along the way. From packing essential gear to spotting wildlife, you’ll find everything you need to create magical moments in the great outdoors. Grab your backpack, and let’s hit the trail for some family hiking fun!
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Preparing for Your Family Hiking Adventure
Getting ready for a family hike is half the fun! With a little planning, you’ll set the stage for an amazing outdoor adventure. Let’s dive into the essentials that’ll keep your little crew happy, energized, and comfortable on the trail.
Packing Snacks and Water
When it comes to hiking with kids, snacks, snacks, and more snacks are your secret weapon. They’re not just fuel; they are mood boosters and adventure motivators. Pack a variety of treats to keep energy levels up and spirits high. My favorites include dried fruit bars, spicy banana chips, fruit snacks, and cuties. For a protein punch, add in some almond butter packets, high protein bars, and cheese sticks.
Pro tip: Stash a few special treats like gummy bears, marshmallows, juice packets, and lollipops. These can work wonders as bribes when little legs get tired!
Now, let’s talk about the most crucial item in your pack – water. It’s not just important; it’s essential for keeping everyone hydrated and energized. While some hikers swear by water bladders, We use the good old water bottle because its easier to clean. This 32-ounce Thermoflask is a great choice for adults, while kids can carry their own smaller Thermoflasks that fit snugly in backpack side pockets .
Remember, it’s always better to bring more water than you think you’ll need. Even on short hikes, always pack water. For hot days, consider bringing stainless steel Yetis filled with ice to keep your water cool and refreshing.
Dressing for the Weather
The key to comfortable hiking is dressing properly and most importantly dressing in layers. This way, you can easily adjust to changing temperatures and activity levels. Start with a breathable base layer – anything but cotton! Smartwool Merino wool or synthetic materials like polyester are excellent choices.
For your mid-layer, opt for a fleece or puffy jacket. These provide warmth without adding too much bulk. Top it off with a waterproof shell to protect against wind and rain. For kids, a 4-in-1 jacket can be a game-changer, combining the mid-layer and outer-layer functions in one versatile piece.
Don’t forget about those little hands and feet! Depending on the weather, pack fleece gloves or mittens for dry conditions, and waterproof snow gloves for wet or snowy hikes.
For footwear, comfortable athletic shoes work well for most day hikes. If expecting wet conditions, waterproof hiking sandals like Keens, Chacos, or Tevas are great options. In colder weather, insulated, waterproof boots like Bogs can keep little toes toasty down to -30°F.
Lastly, always pack extra socks. Not only do they keep feet dry and comfortable, but they can also double as emergency gloves in a pinch.
Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. With the right gear, you and your little adventurers will be ready to tackle any trail, rain or shine!
Choosing the Perfect Trail for Kids
Picking the right trail can make or break your family hiking adventure. It’s not just about the length of the hike; it’s about finding a path that’ll keep your little explorers engaged and excited. Let’s dive into some key factors to consider when selecting the perfect kid-friendly trail.
Difficulty Level Considerations
When you’re hiking with kids, it’s crucial to match the trail difficulty to their experience and motivation levels. Remember, every child is different. Some might be eager to push their limits, while others prefer a more leisurely pace.
Consider these factors when assessing trail difficulty:
- Terrain: Trails can vary from smooth, paved paths to rugged, rocky terrain. Sandy trails can be tiring for little legs, while paved ones are easier to navigate.
- Elevation gain: Steep trails can be challenging for kids, even if they’re short. Look for gradual inclines that won’t wear them out too quickly.
- Obstacles: Be mindful of trails with creek crossings, steep drop-offs, or lots of stairs. These can be tricky for younger hikers.
- Trail length: While important, remember that a shorter, steeper trail might be more challenging than a longer, flatter one.
- Out and back trails: Preview the trail beforehand to make sure the trails are downhill on the way back, so that their little feet are not working as hard on the way back.
Pro tip: Start with easier smooth or paved trails in your local area and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones as your kids gain experience and confidence. The more enjoyable the hiking experience is for the kids, the more likely they will want to do it again.
Our girls now really enjoy hikes that include climbing on rocks and boulders, splashing in creeks, and navigating more rugged trails. They thrive on the challenges and feel a great sense of accomplishment when we finish a hike. So don’t hesitate to push their limits! You might be amazed at how well they adapt and rise to the occasion. Just keep in mind that you may end up carrying one of them for a bit if they struggle to keep pace. You just never know what to expect!
Scenic Attractions for Children
To keep kids engaged and excited throughout the hike, look for trails with interesting features and landmarks. Here are some elements that can turn a simple walk into an exciting adventure:
- Water features: My girls are drawn to water, like magnets, usually most kids are. Choosing trails with lots of visual interest like creeks, lakes, or waterfalls can be a big hit.
- Unique rock formations: Large boulders or interesting rock formations can be fun for kids to explore and climb.
- Historical elements: Remnants of the past, like old chimneys or abandoned cars, can spark curiosity and imagination in young explorers.
- Bridges: Crossing bridges, especially log or wooden ones over creeks, can be exciting for young hikers.
- Diverse landscapes: Trails that offer a variety of scenery, from forests to meadows to viewpoints, can keep kids interested throughout the hike.
Remember, the goal is to make hiking fun and enjoyable for the whole family. By choosing trails with the right difficulty level and exciting attractions, you’ll be setting the stage for unforgettable outdoor adventures that your kids will look forward to time and time again.
Making Hiking Fun for Children
Incorporating Play into the Hike
Incorporate play into your hike to transform a simple walk into an exciting exploration. Here are some fun ideas to keep your little ones engaged and motivated:
- Imaginative Play: Let your kids’ imaginations run wild on the trail. They can pretend to be explorers, dinosaurs, or even their favorite superheroes. This kind of play not only makes the hike more enjoyable but also helps in their development.
- Hike-and-Seek: Put a hiking twist on the classic hide-and-seek game. Let your kids run ahead (within sight) and hide behind trees or rocks. Then “find” them, allowing them to jump out and “scare” you. It’s a fun way to keep them moving forward on the trail.
- Red Light, Green Light: This one is our favorite, this simple game can turn a regular hike into a fun challenge. When you say “green light,” kids can walk or run ahead. “Red light” means stop. It’s an engaging way to manage the pace of your hike.
- Toy Time: Bring along a few small toys like cars, dolls, or action figures. Let your kids incorporate these into the natural surroundings, creating imaginative scenarios as they hike.
- Scavenger Hunt: When energy levels start to dip, try a scavenger hunt. Choose a color and encourage your kids to find items of that hue along the trail. It’s a great way to help them observe nature more closely.
- Follow the Snake: Draw a line in the dirt with a stick as you walk and have your kids follow the path.
Educational Opportunities on the Trail
Hiking offers countless opportunities for learning and discovery. Here’s how you can turn your family hike into an educational adventure:
- Animal Quizzes: Test your kids’ knowledge of animal sounds, diets, and habitats. Ask them to guess what animals might eat the plants or insects you encounter. This game not only educates but also encourages curiosity about wildlife.
- Nature Observation: Encourage your children to use all their senses to explore the environment. They can listen for bird calls, feel different tree barks, or smell wildflowers. This hands-on approach helps develop their observational skills.
- Storytelling: Share stories about the area’s history, local legends, or even your own childhood adventures. Storytelling can make the hike more engaging and create lasting memories.
- Track Identification: In winter, identifying animal tracks in the snow can be an exciting activity. It’s a great way to learn about local wildlife and their habits.
- Leave No Trace Principles: Most importantly teach them to leave no trace on the trails. Encourage them to clean up and take all the trash to the trash can or bring them home. Leave nothing but footprints. Read more about the leave-no-trace principles.
By incorporating these fun and educational elements, you’re not just making the hike more interesting—you’re helping to create lifelong outdoor enthusiasts.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Dealing with Tired Kids
Hiking with kids can be an incredible adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. One of the most common issues you’ll face is dealing with tired little legs. It’s almost guaranteed that at some point during your hike, you’ll hear the familiar refrain of “My feet hurt” or “I’m tired” or “I don’t want to go on a hike”, or face meltdowns and this is completely normal!
When fatigue sets in, try these strategies:
- Acknowledge their feelings: Let your kids know it’s okay to feel tired. You might say, “Yes, I bet your legs are tired. Mine are too. That’s how we know we are using your muscles”.
- Take frequent breaks: Plan regular stops to rest and refuel. Use landmarks as milestones, like “Let’s take a break at that big tree up ahead”.
- Keep them engaged: Boredom can amplify fatigue. Try shared storytelling, tell jokes, play I-Spy, sing songs, or try playing songs and turn them into a dance party on the trail. Make sure to keep the volume low, so you don’t disturb other hikers.
- Be prepared for the return trip: The way back is often the toughest part. Consider bringing a backup carrier for younger kids, or plan a fun activity for when you get home to keep spirits high.
Remember, hiking with kids often takes longer than expected. A good rule of thumb is to add an hour to the estimated hiking time for adults.
Handling Unexpected Weather
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and weather conditions can change rapidly during a hike. Here’s how to handle unexpected weather changes:
- Be prepared: Always check the forecast before you set out, but be ready for surprises. Pack rain gear, extra layers, and sun protection regardless of the predicted weather. If it starts to rain, remember the mantra “YOU GET WET”. Keep a positive attitude and treat it as part of the adventure.
- Know when to turn back: While it’s great to push through minor discomforts, always prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to cut your hike short.
- Pack smart: Bring a change of clothes and shoes to leave in the car. This can be a lifesaver after a muddy or wet hike. See this post about everything you need to pack.
- Teach weather awareness: Use unexpected weather as a learning opportunity. Point out how you can hear a waterfall before seeing it, or how the air smells different before rain.
By preparing for these common challenges, you’ll be ready to turn potential setbacks into memorable moments on the trail. Remember, the goal is to foster a love for nature and outdoor adventures in your kids. With the right attitude and preparation, even a rain-soaked hike can become a cherished family memory.
Conclusion
Hiking with kids is a wonderful way to bond as a family and create lasting memories in nature, but it does require a bit of planning. Choosing the right trail, packing smart, dressing appropriately, and adding some fun activities can set the stage for incredible outdoor adventures.
While it often means bringing a few more items than you’d like, it’s all about finding the balance between being well-prepared and not overpacking. If you’re curious about what I pack for our family hikes, here’s a peek into my backpack essentials before we hit the trails.
- Final Thoughts
- Start small
- Hike often
- Let them get dirty
- Give praises through out the hike
- Make it positive and enjoyable
- Journal together after the hike
Remember, when hiking with children, the journey is what matters most—it’s not just about reaching the destination. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the small victories, and use each moment as a chance to learn and grow together. With a positive attitude and a sense of adventure, you’re not just hiking—you’re cultivating a lifelong love of nature in your kids.
