Take a Hike! 8 Family-Friendly Tips
Get out your comfy walking shoes and gather your family for a fun and fitness-filled walk. Here's how to make sure kids of all ages have fun out on the trails.
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Fancy Photography/Veer
Fun, Foolproof Family Hikes
Any time is a terrific time to take a hike. Some tips for kid-friendly treks, from Best Hikes With Children in Utah author Maureen Keilty.
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Jason Lindsey
Make Sure Shoes Fit
Try on hiking boots for comfort and fit before you go.
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Bill Hopkins
Getting Ready
Let your kids help prepare for your hike by making trail mix, filling water bottles, and studying maps.
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Jason Lindsey
Choose an Easy Route
Choose an easy route so even the youngest hiker can say, "I walked the whole way!" Most younger children can handle a two-mile hike -- and you may be surprised to see how far older kids walk! But for your first-time out on the trails, start with a gentle mile.
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Jason Lindsey
Stop to Smell the Flowers
Point out wildflowers, waterfalls, and birds' nests along the way.
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Peter Krumhardt
Invite a Trail Buddy
Let your child invite a friend. She'll have more fun -- and be less likely to complain.
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John Noltner
Follow the Leader
Give everyone -- even the youngest trail-goers -- a turn as the hike leader.
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Fancy Photography/Veer
Stay Hydrated
Make frequent stops for water and snacks.
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iStock
Positive Reinforcement is Key!
Praise patience and playfulness early and often.
Copyright 2001. Reprinted with permission from the May 2001 issue of Child magazine.
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