Tips for HIKING WITH KIDS by Jessica Palmer
You know what? Life gets a bit boring when you’re indoors all the time. Now that restrictions have eased, this is a great opportunity to get outdoors and start exploring our beautiful National Parks on foot. Here are my tried and tested tips for hiking with young kids! Allow Plenty of Extra Time
Hiking with kids means stopping for snacks, drinks and a rest more often. Kids walk a lot slower than adults, and due to the extra weight when carrying them, you will walk a little slower as well. They will also want to stop and look at every flower, mushroom, animal poop and stick they see.
Invest in a good Carrier
Your carrier will make or break your hiking experience with kids. Sometimes they will hike KMs without complaint, and other times they will only manage 200 metres before declaring their legs are tired. My personal favourite carriers are the ErgoBaby, the Kathmandu Karinja carrier and the Piggy Back Rider.
Make it Fun and Feature Friendly
This is as easy as playing games and talking when you walk. See who can spot the next trail marker first or see who can spot the next animal poop. Did you know that wombat poop is cube-shaped? I know, it’s gross! But young kids seem to like tidbits of information that involve bodily functions.
44
Ensure the trail is not boring for them by choosing a trail that involves a swimming hole, waterfall, or rock-hopping across a river.
Let Them Have a go
Let them have a go when it’s safe to do so. You’re kids will surprise you! When my eldest was four years old, he scrambled up quite a steep section on a hike in Tasmania. Letting him do this and achieve it really boosted his confidence.
Pack Lots of Snacks
Even if your kids have just eaten a three-course meal and you are only hiking for 40 minutes, pack snacks and drinks! Homemade bliss balls cleverly renamed as ‘‘power pellets’’ will give your kids super hiking powers when they are lagging.
Adjust Your Expectations
The reality of hiking with kids is that you won’t be able to hike for as far or long. Don’t be disheartened though! It’s surprising what can still be achieved and how many awesome destinations are out there. Aim for hikes that are packed full of features in a short distance.
Top: Taking a break at Evercreech Forest Reserve in Tasmania. Photos: Jessica Palmer.
