Hiking With Kids By Hakan BICAK At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

When most people think of hikers they envision a bearded, crusty guy with a walking stick 200 miles from the nearest phone. While this may be a hiker in the most pure form - it is not how most of us hike! When you are hiking with kids - especially small ones - what you really are is an adventurous walker.

Children really enjoy hiking - especially when you start them out young! Strollers are not convenient for hikes or walking at most locations but a good baby backpack will give you access to just about anyplace you.

Children as young as three years old are ready for hiking. My hubby and I took our son out for long walks for several weeks preceding a big family camping trip. After a week of camping the boy was happily hiking five miles per day in some pretty rough terrain. I recommend you start out with short hikes so you can learn your child's endurance without frustrating or upsetting them or yourself. Plan to take plenty of time on your hikes. A five mile trek with a three year old will take a leisurely six hours. This includes lots of stops for photos and plant exploration.

If you are used to hiking without kids and have enjoyed your treks for physical exertion - please be prepared for a big change of pace! Hiking with children is emotionally demanding (it can be pretty down-right frustrating at times :-). Unless you actually have to carry a child your hike will not be very physically exerting. My husband hikes alone for the physical challenge of it and then hikes with our kids for entertainment.

Hiking with your children is a learning experience for both you and your children. You learn to slow down and enjoy things as they come. Your children learn to appreciate your company and nature too!

Sore feet make for grumpy kids. Be sure to provide your kids with sturdy footwear and dry socks (if your hike crosses a stream it's a sure bet you'll need an extra pair :-) My family likes high-top quality sneakers or hiking boots - with laces please! Velcro attracts burrs!

Some people like to view plant life. There is no better way to see unfettered plant life than out on a lonely trail. Other folks like to view Native Click here for info on the park this photo came from. American rock art and ruins. The more secluded the area, the more likely you are to find quality remains of Native American culture. If you are seeking bird or animal life you may want to wait until your kids are old enough to remain quiet for a while - a young kid will never keep quiet enough for animals to be seen.

Try to set a good example for your kids. Stay on the trail and avoid taking shortcuts. Don't pick flowers or break tree limbs. Leave native dwellings and rock art alone. If you pack it in - take it out!Please make an effort to follow park rules and regulations - and help your children to do the same.

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