Tips for Hiking with Kids
1. Remember that hiking is about the journey and not the destination.
I can sometimes get focused on getting to the end of a hike and find myself rushing my kids. Everyone always has more fun if we slow down a bit and take time to explore nature more deeply.
Wendi finds a Luna Moth Caterpillar on our first day visiting Mill Creek Point in the RRG
2. Snacks are life.
I usually let my kids have slightly more sugary snacks while hiking because sugar=quick energy. If the sugar comes with a little protein, even better. If I find my kids getting grumpy or tired, a quick treat can usually turn things around. Some of my favorites include: peanut or regular m&m’s, Zbars, beef jerky, grapes, and string cheese. When my kids were little, I carried orange tic-tacs and would call them “power pellets”. Anytime they started feeling tired, I would give them a power pellet. The placebo effect is real.
3. Plan a picnic for longer hikes and take a solid rest half way through.
I usually plan on allowing my kids to rest and play in a cool spot for at least an hour. This is the most fun part for them.
Resting and exploring in a cool shady spot
4. Don’t cut costs on your kid’s footwear.
Everyone in rain gear hiking up from Mill Creek at our property in the Red River Gorge
Having a good pair of hiking shoes makes a big difference. They need good traction and they should be water-resistant or water-proof. I am a big fan of Keens for kids as they are virtually indestructible. I also keep a variety of wool socks for my kids, from light to thick, depending on the weather. Wet cotton socks are horrible.
5. Pack layers.
In addition to layers, if there is greater than a 10% chance of rain, everyone needs a raincoat on every hike. The best basic raincoat is the Patagonia Torrentshell ($119 Kids, $149 men's/women's)
6. Remind your kids to stay hydrated and take regular breaks for water.
I believe in electrolyte replacement. I don’t let my kids regularly drink Gatorade because of all the extra sugar, but I always bring it on hikes. You really do need to replace your sodium, potassium, and glucose when sweating/exercising.
7. Be prepared.
On any hike over 1 mile, I bring 3 things in addition to those listed above. I’ve heard enough horror stories of families being lost in the woods to ever leave home without the following:
Lighter (you cannot go wrong with a basic Bic from the Shell station)
Flashlight (The Petzel Tikkina is our go to. Its only $19.95, basic and rock solid)
First aid kit with an epi-pen (I love the prosumer level My Medic kits and never leave home without a MyFakMini $99)
8. Pick hikes with big payouts.
Although it is about the journey and not the destination, my kids are always more satisfied with a big pay out. A spectacular view, swimming hole, or cool rock formation can serve as pay out.
Sunset on Auxier Ridge with Courthouse Rock in the Distance.
9. Have good directions and a map.
Make sure you know where the trailhead is and have good directions and a downloaded or paper map. Nothing can ruin the mood like getting lost. (see our post on Kalepa Ridge in Kauai for what not to do)
10. Research and look for edible plants.
We love finding wintergreen berries on a hike and they are easy to identify due to their distinct smell. Of course, always thoroughly do your research before eating any wild plants. This kind of task can be a good distraction from how tired they are. There is a great guide to edible plants by Dan and Judy Dourson, local biologists, specifically written for the gorge. Wild Yet Tasty $14.95. This is available online and in multiple local shops.
11. Never, ever, give into their whining.
If it works once, they will try it again. I find that kids complain the most during the first 30 minutes of a hike. If you don’t respond to their complaining and they realize they are never going to change your mind about doing the hike, they will stop.
Unhappy kids on a long hike along the Highlands Section of the Pine Mountain Trail
