How to Make Hiking Fun for Kids.
Looking for fun ways to get your kids excited about hiking? Check out these tips for creating engaging, kid-friendly hikes that will keep everyone entertained outdoors.
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Hiking is one of the best ways to get outside, enjoy nature, and stay active—but let’s be honest, getting kids excited about hitting the trail isn’t always easy. The trick is making the experience fun, engaging, and rewarding. Here’s how to turn a simple hike into an adventure your kids will love.
Pick the Right Trail
Pick the Right Trail
Start with an easy, kid-friendly trail that has something fun along the way. Look for:
Shorter distances (1-3 miles is a good start)
Waterfalls, creeks, or lakes (Kids love water!)
Wildlife spotting opportunities (Birds, squirrels, and even bugs can be exciting)
Scenic views (Lookouts or rock formations add excitement)
Loop trails (So there’s always something new to see)
Great kid-friendly hikes include:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN/NC) – Easy nature trails and waterfalls
Runyon Canyon (CA) – Short hikes with amazing city views
Shenandoah National Park (VA) – Lots of trails with wildlife
Rocky Mountain National Park (CO) – Beautiful, beginner-friendly trails
Make It a Game
Make It a Game
Kids love games, so turn your hike into an adventure! Try these ideas:
Scavenger Hunt – Make a list of things to find (a red leaf, a butterfly, a smooth rock)
I Spy – Take turns spotting different colors or animals
Treasure Hunt – Bring a small prize for whoever finds a cool rock or stick
Trail Bingo – Create a bingo card with different sights to check off
Bring the Right Gear
Bring the Right Gear
Having the right gear makes a huge difference in keeping kids comfortable and happy:
Good walking shoes – Sneakers work fine for most easy hikes
Backpack with snacks & water – Kids get hungry fast! & Keep them hydrated!
Bug spray & sunscreen – Keep the experience enjoyable
Binoculars – Great for spotting birds and distant views
A walking stick – Kids love using a stick like a pro hiker
Keep Them Fueled
Keep Them Fueled
Pack snacks that are easy to eat on the go, such as:
Granola bars
Trail mix
Apple slices or grapes
Cheese sticks
Beef jerky
And of course, bring plenty of water! Hydration is key to avoiding cranky hikers. 💧
Set the Right Pace
Set the Right Pace
Kids don’t move as fast as adults, so:
Take plenty of breaks
Let them explore (rocks, sticks, puddles—it’s all part of the fun)
Be flexible—if they’re getting tired, don’t push it too hard
Celebrate small achievements (“We made it to the top!”)
Make It Educational (Without Making It Boring)
Make It Educational (Without Making It Boring)
Hiking is a great way to sneak in some learning without kids realizing it:
Talk about plants and animals – “Did you know this tree is over 100 years old?”
Bring a field guide – Identify leaves, flowers, or birds
Teach basic navigation – Show them how to read a trail map
Tell stories – A little storytelling can make the hike magical
End on a High Note
End on a High Note
Kids will remember the end of the hike the most, so make it special:
Have a picnic at the end
Give them a fun “souvenir” like a cool rock or leaf
Stop for ice cream on the way home 🍦
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Hiking with kids isn’t just about walking a trail—it’s about creating fun outdoor memories. With the right approach, you can turn any hike into an adventure they’ll look forward to again and again. So grab your gear, pick a fun trail, and make some unforgettable moments out in nature!
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