Hiking with Children

Children on their first hike at Mount Rainier National Park. By Mark Fuller

Why hike with kids?

Hiking with kids is fun!

Hiking with children provides quality time without the distractions of video games and television.  Spending time outdoors with youth is a great opportunity to make memories, develop a real connection to the natural world, and see wildlife up close in their natural habitat. Hiking is also great exercise!  

Hiking is an adventure that everyone can enjoy.

Children love adventures and hiking can easily be transformed from an overwhelming trek up a steep slope into a “Choose Your Own Adventure” extravaganza. Teach some basic survival skills to help navigate such as using a map and compass to find your way.  Children love being an expert - have them make up names for birds, rocks, plants and wildlife or use guide books to identify what you observe.  Using all of your senses to explore the natural world is another great way to experience a hike.  Make sure to remember to listen, look, touch, smell and taste things along the trail.    

Spending time on the trail can create new memories.

Family traditions such as going on a hike once a month, visiting every Washington state park, or spending a week backpacking create family stories that will be passed on for generations.  There are over 9,000 miles of trails in Washington to explore, so why not take the kids out for a day or two and experience new places close to home or visit other parts of the state? 

Resources for Families & Youth

This website is full of great resources for families.  Check back frequently as we add new hiking suggestions and new guided hikes:

• Tips for Hiking with Children
• Suggested Hikes for Toddlers & Young Children
  
• Families Go Hiking Clinics
  
• Families Go Hiking Guided Hikes
  
• Youth Opportunities
• Books and other resources