Family hiking on weekends through the year and especially in the summer is a highlight of our life. It’s one way for us to enjoy family time away from screens while getting fresh air, exploring new places, and learning new things.
We have been hiking for a while now and as our kids all approach the tweens and teen years, we have learned so much at every stage of their hiking experience. Here are some tips for hiking with kids in the hot summer months.
Start Early
Whether you are doing a day trip or a weekend trip that involves hiking, starting early can keep everyone happy!
While waking up early may leave some grouchy, starting the hike early when the weather is still cooler will turn them around and make everyone happier.
Not only that but getting to the destination early beats the crowds. Everyone likes no crowds!
Snacks and Drinks
Who doesn’t love snacks? Everyone loves snacks, but don’t overload on snacks and get a sugar crash!
Snacks are treats and rewards when it comes to hiking for our kids. During the warm months, we ensure to pack a cooler in the car in order to keep snacks like fruits cold for the return. We pack trail hearty snacks like granola (store bought or homemade depending what we have on hand at the time), fruit, sandwiches, veggie and dips, fruit snacks, boil eggs, beef jerky, and yes we also bring some unhealthy snacks like chips mostly as bribes. hehe.
Obviously, don’t forget about drinks! Hydration is important for hiking during any season and 10x more in the warm months. Never underestimate how much water one needs. We like to add in some fruity flavors like Gatorade for electrolytes or just to switch up our taste buds.
Dress in Layers
While you think it’s summer time and the need for layers is not necessary, it actually quite the contrary.
Mornings are often cooler, then the body may warm up as you begin hiking, especially in the afternoon sun. I find it always necessary to bring layers to evaluate the conditions on arrival. You can always change your mind at the trailhead, but at least bring the layers because 50 degrees at home in the valley may be different from 50 degrees in the high sierra. Wearing layers in changing conditions is very important, so if you suspect any changes will occur, dress in layers and peel them off as needed while hiking.
For bottoms, we like to wear interchangeable hiking pants that can zip off lower leg portions when the weather gets too warm turning pants into shorts easily. Other times, we opt for shorts or leggings for the girls. We prefer leggings with UPF and bring extra pair of lightweight quick dry shorts to change into incase we go for a swim.
For tops, UPF short or long sleeve synthetic shirts is always a must. In the early morning, if the air is chilly, we layer on a long sleeve hoodie.
Hats and Sunglasses. Don’t think you don’t need them! My kids aren’t a fan of hats because of the extra sweats, but we still make them wear them for sun protection.
We will also pack extra socks and sometimes sandals if water activity at our destination is expected.
You will notice that a lot of the time, we do not hike in hiking gear. My kids sometimes hike in gym shorts or pants, even jeans! Usually, they are allowed to wear jeans if it’s less of a hike, and more of a touristy sightsee.
Fun Activities at the Destination
We are a family that loves a great ending, therefore we thrive on hikes that end at a waterfall, a beautiful scneary, a swimming hole, or just a WOW look at that! It gives that extra sense of accomplishment a whole new meaning.
With children, we prefer waterfall, swimming hole, or just a shallow wading area for the hot months so that everyone can cool off, and enjoy their snack before heading back.
Pick a Realistic Trail
One of the most important thing about a successful hiking trip with children of any age is the picking a realistic trail. In the hot months, even if you start early when it is cooler, it can be treacherous on the way back so you have to think about that as well.
Picking a shorter but decent trail with some spotty shade can make all the difference.
Picking a trail with rocks to climb, logs or bridges to cross, or vista viewpoints keeps the children engaged as well. This helps to make a hike feel shorter. The best trails for my kids are the fun trails. These are the trails with boulders and logs to climb, waterfalls that mist, safe streams to cross, and pools to swim in.
My kids often gets bored when it’s just a monotonous trail over and over again.
Be Positive and Happy
Things don’t always go as planned, but having a positive attitude will help brighten the mood for everyone.
Just like changing itineraries and having plan B, some hiking plans are bound to unfortunate delays or changes that may be beyond your control. Being frustrated for a second is ok! But turn around, accept the changes, and keep moving. Encourage happy thoughts and stay positive about the experien
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