Hitting the Trails With Tiny Trekkers

I know what you’re thinking, hiking with kids?! There is no way that’s peaceful and relaxing for anyone. And to be honest it wasn’t always super relaxing, but its always rewarding! We started hiking in 2012 after our first baby was born. I was battling postpartum depression and my husband suggested we start hiking. And I thought he was crazy for even suggesting it. But it turned out that  hiking with a baby wasn’t bad at all! We both loved it. I got my endorphins going while my baby enjoyed exploring and being outdoors with mom & dad. So for the last 11 years we’ve continued to hit the trails with our three daughters as often as possible. 

How did we manage hiking with little kids?

You’re probably wondering how we did it and how your kids might handle it. Will they be too bored? Whiny? Tired? The answer is, it depends! We started our kids out when they were babies & toddlers, and I’m sure that helped. But with a little planning and the right trails, I’m positive hiking with the kids can be a rewarding and enriching experience for your whole family.

Here are six tips to turn your next hike into a fun-filled adventure for everyone:

1. Start With Short Hiking Trails

Opt for short, easy trails with minimal elevation gain. You do not want to start your hiking journey with super steep trails. Try to find trails in your area with minimal  climbs. A good rule of thumb is to choose a hike that is about half the distance you think your child can walk, as they’ll likely be exploring and stopping more frequently.

2. Find Trails With Fun Features

Look for trails with scenic overlooks, waterfalls, hikes with creeks, or interesting rock formations. The fun trails are more likely to pique your child’s curiosity and keep them engaged. Let them pick up sticks to carry around on the trail. Point out different plants and insects you see on the hike. Something that always kept our toddlers excited during our hikes was searching for lizards. One time we came across a bearded dragon and a tarantula all in the same day! It was hard to top that hike. 

3. Choose the Time You Start Your Hike Wisely:

 Especially in Southern California! Aim for cooler mornings or evenings, especially during the summer months. Avoid being in the middle of your hike at noon on a summer day. Instead, start early and plan to be out of there by 12:00pm to avoid being stuck there in the heat. I also recommend finding trails that have trees! Shady trails make for a much more pleasant experience for everyone.

 I also recommend that if it’s your first time hiking with or without kids, don’t go in the evening. In our early hiking days I always avoided being on the trail after dusk. Most wildlife in So Cal comes out after dark and I didn’t want to have to worry about tarantulas or coyotes. 

4. What Should the Kids Wear on The Hike

Wear comfortable shoes! 

If your kids don’t own hiking shoes, and the minimum, have them wear running shoes. I do recommend hiking shoes or boots for kids because they have much better grip on them. It makes climbing and walking through creeks a lot safer. 

Layer Up! 

Layer your kiddo’s up. They can wear a light long sleeve button up or flannel. During the summer the long sleeves can protect your kiddos from the sun and mosquito bites. Taking hats and sunscreen is also a must. They can also tie a sweatshirt around their waist just in case it’s needed. We used to take them to sit on if we took breaks

5. Bring Snacks & Water

It is very important that you and the kids stay hydrated, so bring plenty of water with you. Pack water accordingly, depending on the distance you will be walking. We would take about 48oz of water for our family of five on a 4 mile hike. I always packed one bottle each, plus one more in case we needed it. Take some snacks with you for longer treks, it will keep your energy levels up and everyone in a good mood. Which is super important when hiking with kids. 

6. Fun Things to Take for Your Little Ones

To make hiking an even more exciting adventure for the kids, pack them their own little backpack. Keep it light! Some fun items to include are a pair of binoculars and a magnifying glass. This makes exploring more exciting for both kids and adults! I found this little kit that’s not bulky on Amazon, it includes a compass, binoculars, and a magnifying glass, here’s the link.

Be patient and flexible!  

Remember, the goal is to have fun and create positive memories. Be prepared to turn around if your child gets tired or overwhelmed. By following these tips and embracing the adventure, you can ensure that your next family hike is a success for everyone involved.