Hiking with Kids: Best Tips and Equipment

Hiking with kids can be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family. It offers a chance to connect with nature, bond with your children, and instill in them a love for the outdoors. However, hiking with kids requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Best Tips for Hiking with Kids

1. Choose family-friendly trails: When planning a hike with kids, opt for trails that are suitable for their age, abilities, and interests. Look for shorter trails with gentle inclines and interesting features such as waterfalls, lakes, or wildlife sightings. Many national and state parks offer designated family-friendly trails with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.
2. Start small: If your children are new to hiking or have limited outdoor experience, start with shorter hikes and gradually increase the length and difficulty as they gain confidence and stamina. Begin with trails that can be completed in a couple of hours and gradually work your way up to longer day hikes or overnight trips.
3. Pack the essentials: Make sure to pack essential items such as water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a first aid kit, a map or trail guide, and appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and terrain. Encourage your kids to carry their own small backpack with water, snacks, and a few lightweight items to help them feel responsible and prepared.
4. Educate and engage: Take the time to educate your children about the natural environment they will be exploring. Teach them about local plants, animals, and landmarks, and encourage them to observe and ask questions along the trail. Bring along a field guide or nature identification app to help identify plants and wildlife you encounter.
5. Set realistic expectations: Keep in mind that hiking with kids may involve frequent stops, slower pace, and shorter distances compared to hiking with adults. Be patient and flexible, and allow plenty of time for breaks to rest, eat snacks, explore, and play along the trail. Emphasize the journey rather than the destination, and focus on enjoying quality time together as a family.
6. Safety first: Prioritize safety at all times while hiking with kids. Stay on marked trails, obey posted signs and warnings, and be mindful of potential hazards such as steep drop-offs, slippery rocks, and wildlife. Teach your children basic trail etiquette, such as yielding to other hikers and staying hydrated and nourished throughout the hike.
7. Encourage exploration and play: Hiking offers endless opportunities for kids to explore, discover, and play in nature. Encourage your children to use their senses to observe and engage with their surroundings, such as listening for bird calls, feeling the texture of tree bark, and searching for animal tracks. Allow them to take breaks to climb rocks, splash in streams, and explore off-trail under close supervision.
8. Lead by example: Be a positive role model for your children by demonstrating good hiking habits and outdoor etiquette. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and natural resources. Show enthusiasm and curiosity for the natural world, and encourage your kids to develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
9. Celebrate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your children’s accomplishments and milestones during the hike, whether it’s reaching a scenic viewpoint, spotting wildlife, or completing a challenging section of trail. Praise their efforts, resilience, and teamwork, and foster a sense of pride and accomplishment in their outdoor adventures.
10. Reflect and plan for future hikes: After the hike, take time to reflect on the experience as a family and discuss what you enjoyed and learned along the way. Use this opportunity to solicit feedback from your children and involve them in planning future hikes, including choosing destinations, setting goals, and preparing for new adventures together.

Essential Hiking Gear for Kids

1. Comfortable Footwear: Choosing the right footwear is paramount for any hiking adventure, especially for children. Invest in lightweight, waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls. Look for options with ample ankle support to safeguard against twists and sprains. Ensure the footwear fits properly, leaving enough room for toes to wiggle and grow without causing discomfort.
2. Proper Clothing: Dressing appropriately for the hike ensures kids stay comfortable in various weather conditions. Opt for moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics that keep them cool in hot weather and warm in cooler temperatures. Dress them in layers, allowing easy adjustment as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket in case of unexpected rain or wind.
3. Hydration Solutions: Staying hydrated is essential during outdoor activities, especially hiking. Equip your child with a lightweight, BPA-free water bottle or hydration reservoir that’s easy to carry and drink from. Encourage frequent water breaks to prevent dehydration, particularly on hot and sunny days. Additionally, consider packing electrolyte-rich snacks or hydration tablets to replenish lost nutrients during longer hikes.
4. Backpack: A properly fitting backpack allows children to carry their essentials comfortably without feeling weighed down. Look for a kid-sized backpack with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt for added support. Opt for a lightweight yet durable material that can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. Ensure the backpack has multiple compartments for organizing gear and easy access to essentials like snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
5. Sun Protection: Shielding children from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial during outdoor excursions. Equip them with a wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap to protect their face, neck, and ears from sunburn. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed skin, including the face, arms, and legs. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if they’re sweating or swimming.
6. Navigation Tools: Teach children basic navigation skills and equip them with simple tools like a compass or map to foster a sense of direction and independence. Engage them in identifying trail markers and interpreting maps to enhance their understanding of the surrounding environment. Consider using child-friendly navigation apps or GPS devices for added safety and convenience, especially in unfamiliar terrain.
7. Nature Exploration Kit: Encourage curiosity and exploration by providing children with a nature exploration kit filled with binoculars, a magnifying glass, a field guide to local flora and fauna, and a journal for documenting their discoveries. Engage them in identifying different plant species, animal tracks, and bird calls along the trail. Encourage them to sketch, write, or take photographs of their observations to foster a deeper connection with nature.

Best Hiking Boots for Kids

When it comes to selecting hiking boots for kids, several factors should be considered, including durability, comfort, support, and traction. Here are some popular options for the best hiking boots for kids:

1. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boots for Kids: These boots offer excellent support and traction, with a waterproof membrane to keep feet dry in wet conditions. They are durable and comfortable for long hikes.
2. Keen Targhee Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots for Kids: Known for their durability and toe protection, Keen hiking boots provide great support for kids’ feet. They are also waterproof and have a grippy outsole for various terrains.
3. Salomon XA Pro 3D CSWP J Hiking Shoes: These hiking shoes are lightweight and provide stability and protection. They feature a waterproof membrane and offer good traction, making them suitable for various outdoor activities.
4. Columbia Youth Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot: Columbia offers sturdy and reliable hiking boots for kids. The Newton Ridge boots provide good ankle support, traction, and waterproofing, making them ideal for hiking adventures.
5. The North Face Youth Hedgehog Hiker II WP: These boots are lightweight yet durable, offering good support and traction. They feature a waterproof membrane and a comfortable cushioning system.
6. Vasque Breeze AT UltraDry Hiking Boots for Kids: Vasque offers quality hiking boots designed for kids. The Breeze AT UltraDry boots provide stability and waterproofing while maintaining breathability for comfort on the trail.

Best Kids Hiking Backpacks

When looking for the best hiking backpacks for kids, you’ll want to consider factors like size, durability, comfort, and features suitable for their needs. Here are some top options:

1. Osprey Youth Ace 50: Osprey is known for its quality hiking backpacks, and the Youth Ace 50 is designed specifically for kids. It offers adjustable harness and hip belt to accommodate growth, along with features like a hydration sleeve and multiple pockets.
2. Deuter Fox 30: The Deuter Fox 30 is a versatile and durable backpack designed for kids. It features a comfortable suspension system, adjustable straps, and various pockets for organizing gear. The Fox 30 also comes with a hydration system compatible sleeve.
3. Kelty Yukon 48: The Kelty Yukon 48 is another excellent option for young hikers. It offers ample storage capacity, adjustable suspension system, and padded shoulder straps for comfort. The backpack also has a top lid pocket and side pockets for easy access to essentials.
4. REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack – Kids’: If you’re looking for a smaller backpack for shorter hikes or younger children, the REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack is a great choice. It’s lightweight, durable, and comes with features like mesh side pockets and a hydration reservoir sleeve.
5. Columbia Sportswear Northern Pass Backpack: This backpack offers a comfortable suspension system, adjustable straps, and plenty of storage space for essentials. It’s designed to fit kids well and is suitable for day hikes or overnight trips.

Equipping kids with the right hiking gear sets the stage for memorable outdoor adventures while ensuring their safety and comfort along the way. From sturdy footwear and proper clothing to hydration solutions and navigation tools, investing in quality gear prepares children for a lifetime of exploration and appreciation for the great outdoors. By fostering a love for nature early on, we empower the next generation of adventurers to discover the wonders of the natural world while fostering a sense of stewardship for the environment.