Hiking with children?

Tips to avoid tedium

In northern Ontario, a great hike is never far away and hiking is a great family activity. My husband and I introduced our children to hiking before they could walk with the help of a baby jogger for smooth trails and a packsack-style baby carrier for uneven terrain. When they were toddlers, we brought them on short day hikes in the spirit of exploring new areas.

Now ages eight and six, our children are ready to tackle more challenging, longer hikes. As natural climbers, rocks that are awkward for adults are fun scrambles for children, and they can have impressive endurance. Children love the feeling of discovery and, with the right planning and mindset, hiking is a great way to nourish their enthusiasm for the natural word.

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

  1. Know your child’s abilities and limitations—plan hikes of a reasonable distance and difficulty.
  2. Explain the length of the hike in terms of time—encourage kids to pace themselves.
  3. Choose sturdy shoes with non-slip soles (don’t skimp because their feet grow quickly, good trail shoes or hiking boots are worth it!).
  4. If you are on a familiar trail, let your child lead—she will appreciate the scenery much more if it’s not blocked by an adult.
  5. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks and keep them readily accessible in your pack. Better yet, let your child pack and carry their own bag.
  6. If your child has a camera or binoculars, bring them along to investigate their new discoveries.

Ontario has a plethora of hiking trails, engage your children in selecting a location for your next family hike.

About Michelle McChristie

Michelle McChristie is a freelance writer from Thunder Bay and frequent contributor to The Walleye magazine. She is passionate about the outdoors and enjoys exploring Lake Superior in all seasons with her family.

Recommended Articles

11 Jaw-Droppingly Beautiful Landscapes

Don't miss the splendours of Northern Ontario

19 Winter Activities to Add to Your Bucket List

Must-do activities that are snow much fun.

Bundle up for Snowy Horseback & Sleigh Rides

Ontario’s best winter equine adventures.

9 of the Most Beautiful Fall Destinations

And they’re all in Ontario.

Best Winter Getaways in Ontario

Make the most of the snow in these stunning locales.

Crown Land Camping

What it is and where you can camp in Ontario.

Go Foraging in Ontario

Learn the basics of how to harvest wild edibles found across the province.

Go Winter Glamping

Get cozy at these 11 snowy Ontario getaways.

Ontario's Other Camping Option

10 best private campgrounds in the province.

Ontario Birding Checklist

Keep an eye on the skies for these 10 incredible species.

2024 Triathalons

Swim, cycle and run your way to triathlete status at these Ontario events.

Winter Camping in Ontario Parks

Find the best cozy yurts or tents to stay in.

Incredible Swimming in Ontario

12 best destinations to take a summer dip.

Explore Ontario’s Hidden Gems

18 destinations you need to visit.

The Best Killarney Hikes

Take to the trails in Ontario’s crown jewel park.

Ontario's Best Family Resorts

Your trip planning starts here.

Call Us Crazy

23 Adrenaline Rushes Found Only in Ontario

Canoeing in Toronto

Locals share best places to paddle in the GTA.

Insider’s Guide to Sleeping Giant

Everything you need to plan a trip to this iconic provincial park.

IT'S REALLY SPECIAL

Point Grondine Park near Killarney, Ontario