Take a hike!! There is nothing like exploring in the woods to get the imagination flowing, the wiggles out and time spent without electronic distractions. Being in nature and exploring Gods natural beauty is one of the rare things in life I can't explain the peace it gives. Now adding a kiddo can definitely ruin the peace unless you are prepared.
I have been hiking even before my daughter was born. She hiked all the way until my 9th month of pregnancy and she was in a hiking backpack as soon as she could hold her head up. She does not necessarily love hiking at all. Actually we are so opposite that we came up with the trail names of Snail for her and Squirrel for me (which by the way is fun to come up with your family as you are hiking). There is sometimes whining, the occasional fall and crying, and the down right refusal to carry on. Despite these moments we do always go back. It's much like life! You deal with obstacles and things that you may or may not want to do. Like climbing up a hill. But, the rewards for overcoming these hurdles are immeasurable.
So here are my how to day hike and SURVIVE with kiddos in tow.
First, make sure you have a backpack with snacks, water (highly important) and are wearing appropriate shoes. I love Osprey packs and Camelbaks, but any backpack will do if it's comfortable and will carry items needed. Kids love to carry them too....for a bit. Just keep in mind you will need water, water, water. Tired and thirsty kiddos that need a break and snack is not fun!! Make it nutritional; such as, trail mix, bananas and oranges. These are great things to have on hand and are easy to carry. Not coke and ice cream!!!
Second, know where you are going. There are lots of apps and websites that will list trails in your area. One of my favorites is Alltrails for places that may not have a State or National Park nearby. If there is a State/National Park there will be trail maps on the website and you can usually find out if it's an easy hike, intermediate or advanced. Trails will generally be marked with some form of marker; such as, color markers painted on the trees, signs notating mileage, etc. Easy trails are usually flatter, but it doesn't mean that they are not long. Be sure to check the mileage and know when to turn around if necessary.
Thirdly, bring a first aid kit/emergency supply. We never want to anticipate something going wrong, but trails add a new element outside of walking down the road. It is safe, but you are further away and not as accessible in the event that something should happen. Here are some items I generally keep in my pack: bandaids, whistle, knife, lighter or flint, headlamp, insect repellant and first aid ointment for stings, scrapes, etc. Cell phones are great, but sometimes lose service; therefore, its recommended to carry a compass. I also keep a battery cellphone backup in my pack; when I remember the cord it's super helpful. Keep in mind that nightfall will hit sooner in the woods with the tree coverage and if you are in a mountainous region it has the tendency to dip way before you think. Do not take eyes off your kids!
Lastly, make sure you are dressed appropriately. Check the local weather and make sure to wear layers if it's cool, bring a rain jacket if there is rain forecasted, etc. Outside of that day hikes are pretty simple to walk out the door and hit a trail. Hiking poles is something that is nice to have, but not necessary.
So what to do with kids on the trail. One of our favorite pastimes is a scavenger hunt. Print off things you want to find in nature and take it with you with a pencil for writing it down. Finding hearts in nature; such as rocks, leaves, knots in trees that are shaped like hearts are a great alternative if you forgot the list. Another fun thing to do is make up songs. Not that anyone else hiking would appreciate this, but desperate times call for desperate measures. It's crying or singing; which would they prefer? Since I have a daughter we talk about fairies and what homes they may be living in. But, it's fun to daydream about the magical aspects of being in the woods. This is also a great time to learn names of trees, birds and flowers. If your child is old enough it's great to give them a camera or camera phone and see what they find. It's amazing the view point of a child's perspective.
Just always remember that to have the best successful hike with children is patience and lots of it. Also, having realistic expectations. Take breaks, eat a snack, take in the scenery, play with sticks, look under rocks and anything else they find fascinating.
Much success on the trail! Remember to leave only footprints behind and take memories with you for a lifetime. Katrina
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