Starting a family doesn’t have to mean giving up the hiking you love. With proper planning and the right attitude, hiking is an outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy. Use these tips for hiking with kids to plan your first or next family hike.
Before the Hike
Remember that kids are motivated by adventure and fun. Generate excitement about hiking by choosing a trail with enticing landmarks such as a lake or waterfall. If it’s your first time hiking with kids, choose a short, low-elevation hike close to home.
Build enthusiasm for the hike by giving your kids their own gadgets and gear. Even if it’s only a small backpack, make sure each child has something to carry. Add fun equipment like magnifying glasses, binoculars, and bug containers.
In your own pack, bring plenty of water and snacks. You’ll also need sunscreen, bug spray, a basic first-aid kit, anti-bacterial wipes, and tissues. If your child has allergies, don’t forget the allergy medication. Finally, because kids get cold easily, be sure to pack extra clothing.
During the Hike
The key to successfully hiking with kids is flexibility. Keep your expectations low and focus on the quality of your time together rather than the distance traveled. If your kids are young or easily distracted, you may find yourself stopping often as they continuously find new things to explore. Accept that your hike may turn into hours of examining rocks, dirt, and bugs rather than hours of actual walking.
Throughout the hike, let your kids set the pace and stop often for water and snacks. Keep them engaged by incorporating learning opportunities and games into the hike. Use a guidebook to identify different types of plants, or conduct a scavenger hunt during which your kids look for various flowers, berries, leaves, or rocks. Praise your kids for their discoveries.
After the Hike
Later, reflect on the day’s successes and challenges. Was the hike too long? Did you forget something? Could you have used more snacks? Use this information to plan your next family hike.
Images via Trailmix.Net, woodleywonderworks
