Hiking with Kids

Hiking has become a fast favorite for our family, but it is also one of the most popular and enjoyed outdoor activities for all ages. Being a part of a few groups locally it is fun to see the trails others day and get ideas, but how do you start taking your kids? 

 

We have written down some of the (not new), but useful tips we have learned, discovered, or enjoy. As most trips, some planning does help make a smooth and successful hike.

First off, we started off with super short hikes. We went about .5 miles and started building up their stamina and endurance. Granted.. we started in the winter with snow and ice. That made it a little harder on their little legs too!

*Hint: We've heard 5 miles is the maximum for most children.*

Second, proper footwear. For the kids and adults. I am not telling you to go buy a pair of hiking boots, but tennis shoes or closed toed shoes are best with traction. Heavy socks, not cotton, is also suggested. (We realized this fact a little late, but it was still a good thing to learn!)

Third, if you are going in the woods for a trail plan for a lot of time. Be prepared to stop often because there are too many interesting things to see and tell you (mom and dad, aunt uncle... etc. about!)

*On a trail we went on recently, there were snails every foot or so and E told me to stop and look at each one. It took a LOT longer than it might have, but we saw a lot of interesting creatures!)*

Third, teach the kids to explore and SEE, but not touch or pick. LNT or Leave No Trace is really hard for kids especially those who pick up and like rocks.... all kids... all kids like rocks. So make a deal with your child, you can pick up one rock or that is a cool (insert nature here) let's take a picture of it!

Other LNT guidelines to keep in mind... stay on the trail, no yelling or screaming (disturbs wildlife), don't throw rocks or tree branches, don't pick flowers or write on or carve trees or rocks, be respectful of other hikers space, and no littering. Remember pack in and pack out. (Get a snack out put the trash back in!)

Fourth, stay on the trail. Some trails even short ones still may have drops off areas or cliffs. Keep your eyes on the little ones and explain the danger.

Fifth, (and I think of of the MOST important ones) is bring plenty of water, snacks, AND a first aid kit. Even a small simple first aid kit might come in handy for the "oops."

But really... water and snacks. These come in handy especially for the "I'm too tired" or "Mom are we done" because sometimes they aren't going to make the whole trail without a little motivation. Make it to that sign and you can have some crackers, make it to that tree and you can have a strawberry... whatever it is!

Lastly, engage their minds. I'd like to say we just go and walk and a lot of times we do, but we also... sing songs, identify items, share things we see, play games like iSpy or cloud pictures (I have a whole blog post with ideas!), have a scavenger hunt, be creative and enjoy the time with your kids and/or family.

*We always bring a tiny notebook and pen/pencil/crayon for each kid because we can draw what we see, the trail, or tally how many.... birds, bridges, or bugs we see.*

Let's get out and hike, have your own #guentheradventures