Hiking with toddlers: A Twin Ports guide

By Molly Milroy

Hiking with little ones can be an adventure in and of itself. Maybe it’s their short statures or inquiring minds, but kids tend to see things we don’t. This can help us to enjoy nature on a whole new level. Lisa Holm, a Duluth resident and mother of two, enjoys hiking with her children because it gives them a chance to slow down.

“We like stepping back and taking time to enjoy the rocks, sticks, leaves or whatever else catches their eyes,” she said.

Whether it’s taking the time to stop and inspect the fuzzy caterpillar or to pick up rocks, getting kids outside is good for them and for us. If you’re new to hiking with toddlers or are looking for outdoor excursions in the Twin Ports, then read on.

Where to go

The Twin Ports offers a plethora of kid-friendly trails.

“We love Park Point, Jay Cooke and anywhere up the North Shore,” Holm said.

Another excellent spot is Pattison State Park, located in south Superior, which has multiple paved trails. Make sure your kids are secure when you take in the views of the highest waterfall in Wisconsin — Big Manitou Falls at 165 feet.

Willard Munger State Trail, a 70-mile paved pathway that runs from Duluth to Hinkley, is another easy trail. Popular spots to pick up the trail in the Twin Ports region are in Carlton one block south of Highway 210 on County Road 1 and in Duluth at the northern trailhead on Grand Avenue (Highway 23) and 75th Avenue West, behind the Munger Hotel.

Looking for a more moderate hike? Check out Lester Park, located in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood. This park features over 9 miles of hiking trails. There is a nice playground, picnic area and porta-potties for use as well.

For more advanced hikes, the Superior Hiking Trail has plenty of trails to explore.

Jessica Winter, Duluth resident and mother of four, explains, “The whole trail is fun, but the sections here in Duluth are easy to access and we can choose different sections each time.”

Mikaela, 7, and Kory Holm, 4, have fun hiking in Grand Marais in August 2020.

Depending on the ages and ability of your hiking companions, choose the hike that suits your group best. Whichever trails you choose, make sure you read about the place ahead of time and be aware of high elevation gains or potential safety concerns such as cliffs and rocky terrain.

When to go

There are two main factors to consider when timing your hike with toddlers: weather and naps. Before heading out, always check the weather first and time your hikes so you are hiking during daylight hours. Another important factor is to check trail conditions. Spring and early summer hiking can be tricky with mud, and some trails may be closed. Trail closures will be listed on the Superior Hiking Trail or on the Duluth Park and Recreation websites.

Plan the hike around the toddler’s schedule. Morning hikes after breakfast or a late afternoon hike after nap time are both ideal times to go. The toddler will be rested and have a lot of energy to burn.

What to bring

A good carrying pack will be essential for longer and more strenuous hikes.

“Having a backpack carrier for your littles is a must,” Winter said. “We enjoyed our Kelty carrier pack, so our littles could come along while we hiked at a pace that my older kids enjoyed.”

If you do plan on carrying the child, make sure they get out and walk at some point as they will be able to explore and experience nature more fully. It will also build confidence in their hiking abilities.

If you are planning on hiking rockier terrain, investing in children hiking boots is a good choice. Check out Great Lakes Gear Exchange for possible finds. Break in hiking shoes ahead

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