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During uncertain times of late, I think we've all been searching for a way to keep busy and get our kids and families outside more than usual. Hiking is something my family has always done. This past year it's safe to say we probably did more hikes as a family than any other outdoor activity.  So much so that one of my kids had a quick response. Every time my husband or I said " who wants to go for a hike?" my son repled "not another hike...that's all we do!"

 

In all seriousness, hiking is such a great way to get your family moving while spending quality time together exploring the outdoors. It's been proven that getting your body moving and being outside produces more endorphins and makes us all happier humans, and happy families. Hiking is also something you can do year-round and in the Northwoods that's hard to come by.  So why not give it a try? Well, as parents, things that were once easy, fun and enjoyable change once you throw in the idea of bringing all the kids along. Kids do indeed complicate things. There is more to consider and a little more preparation both physically and mentally to ensure a successful family hike. 

 

Here's what you need to know
when planning for a hike with kids.  

Time it right

First, plan to hike in the morning if possible. I have found that all my kids have the best energy early in the day. They wake up roaring to go! Whereas in the afternoon they tend to lose their steam. We've tried afternoon hikes, but those seem to come with more tiresome kids that shows in their increased complaining. Your family may be more of an afternoon gang and that's great - just consider what time of day your kids are their best selves.

 

Pick the right trail

It's essential to find a trail that's right for your family. 

Consider

• trail length
• terrain (flat or hills)
• water/lake access
• interpretive or not
• and so on

My suggestion is to start with a shorter length trail.  This helps ensure your first family hike is one where everyone is still happy at the end and ready to go next time. If you overshoot on your kids' capabilities and go for the longer length trail, you may ruin the chances of the kids wanting to go again. 

 

Our family enjoys trails with hills especially in the winter when we bring sleds. In the summer months we tend to stay on flatter grounds. We also search for hiking trails around or near a lake so the kids can swim or get their toes in the water. This is always a highlight and something they look forward to. We usually try to hold off until the end and use it as motivation to keep them moving in trying times. Interpretive trails can also be wonderful. They're interactive and you can learn something along the way. I like to ask around and find trails other families enjoy with their kids when exploring a new area.

 

Packing your backpack

As we all know, kids come with stuff, right? That includes when you hit the trail too. I like to pack light and, being that our hikes are typically 1-2 miles, we're not packing for a full day.  We always have water and snacks (almost more important than bug repellent and sunscreen if we're being honest). Kids LOVE snacks and can really keep them content along the hike. Sometimes we hike to a spot to sit and have a snack.  Sometimes, especially for littles, we eat while we hike...a goldfish here - a goldfish there.  Always remember water bottles. Camelbaks® (hands-free hydration) can be super convenient as they can each wear their own (we gifted some of these to our kids and they love them). We also apply sunscreen and big repellent before we hike. Bring both of these items along...bugs and sunburn can ruin a hike fast for kids so be prepared! If putting a little in a back carrier, consider netting for them to help keep bugs away. It can be difficult to see when they're being bit, and protective netting is a sure way to keep them bug-bite free. I also throw in a small first aid kit in the backpack including several bandaids.  We keep a full first aid kit in the car that's never too far away.  

 

Gear up

When packing your backpack ensure you’ve got one that’s comfortable. Look for padded straps and one that you can adjust to fit your body. It’s very important to have the proper footwear as well. There have been numerous times where my kids would like to wear sandals in the summer when shoes are best and tennis shoes in the winter when boots are appropriate. If you have a child that likes to challenge you some and be stubborn, I suggest letting them wear the footwear of their choice the first time and bringing the appropriate shoes in your pack. They will indeed run into the natural consequence of a stubbed toe, blister, or wet feet. This may save you the battle and be a great way for them to learn on their own. I also suggest clothing layers when hiking. Long sleeves can be rolled up or tied around the waist if the temps warm up. Pants that can zip off to become shorts are awesome too if you're able to invest in the right clothing. Pay attention to the forecast so your family can dress appropriately - being comfortable makes a world of difference!

 

Mental prep

Most importantly, be prepared with a happy, positive attitude. It may sound silly to say, but in all honesty I've heard from parents time and time again thinking the hike was going to be so fun but they're left feeling defeated. To make a successful hike, come mentally prepared with a smile, and a can-do outlook. This is especially important if this is your kid’s first big hike. Be prepared to sing songs along the way to keep their spirits up and distract them from their tired legs. We often bring a nature scavenger hike to do along the way, partnering a big with a little to work together...a fun opportunity for siblings to bond. There's alo the good old hide 'n seek game. We let the kids run ahead and hide on the sides of the trail and we try to find them as we hike,. This is a huge hit in the winter when there's snow to hide in!  If they fall be ready to brush it off. If they get hungry stop for a snack. If they need to go potty be prepared to find a tree. Most of all, be flexible!

 

I hope these tips encourage you to hit the trail with your family and recommend checking out the forest trail at Trees For Tomorrow, perfect for getting your littles started on hiking. Plus there's a great Nature PlayScape to use as motivation to play at the end!

 

Author: Ashley Duffek,

Administrative Assistant

Trees For Tomorrow