Hiking with kids of any age is different in so many ways than hitting the trails with your friends. Here are our top 5 favorite hiking hacks with the kiddies in tow.
1. Have patience and be flexible
You might not make it 1/2 a mile up the trail before you are dealing with meltdowns and tantrums, be patient and try to distract the kids with pointing out wildlife, rivers, or snacks.
2. Bring the essentials
First aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, water, extra clothes, special walking stick, etc.
3. Let the kids set the pace
Put yourself in their shoes and remember that their stubby short legs take 3 steps for every one of yours.
4. Call for rest stops often
Be sure to call for rest stops before the kids ask for them and remember to praise them on how well they are doing. Most often those of us packing the babies need more rest stops than the kids.
5. Pick the right trail
Choose a trail with features that interest kids. While hiking, teach the kids to be observers by looking for signs of wildlife, (paw prints, bird feathers, water along the trail etc.)
Happy Tuesday!
IG: @megynjordyn
