H is for Hiking

5 Tips for Hiking with Kids {ABC's of Summer Fun} @ AVirtuousWoman.org

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H is for Hiking

For me, hiking ranks up there as one of my all time favorite activities to do with my family. I love exploring new trails, finding clues to nature, breathing the fresh air, and seeing breathtaking views.

Summer wouldn’t be summer if we didn’t take a few glorious hikes!

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5 Tips for Hiking with Kids {ABC's of Summer Fun} @ AVirtuousWoman.org

5 Tips for Hiking with Kids

1. Use Sunscreen. It’s no fun to get a sunburn!

2. Stay Hydrated. Bring more water than you think you’ll need. Usually when we take a hike I have everyone carry a full water bottle and I fill my backpack with extras. You will drink more water than normal when hiking – especially if it’s hot.

3. Stay Upbeat. I remember hiking a strenuous 5 mile trail over mountainous terrain and through briars when my youngest daughter was just five years old. I kept encouraging her and telling her she was tough. She made it all the way on her own. Your kids are more likely to have fun if you are having fun!

4. Choose the Your Trail Wisely Keep your family’s experience and the age of your children in mind. Younger children may need to be carried.

5. Be Prepared. Even if it’s early in the day when you start out, it’s good to have supplies in your backpack for emergencies

  • flashlight or headlamp
  • extra batteries
  • water purifier
  • rope
  • matches
  • emergency blankets {if the temp could suddenly drop}
  • basic first aid kit
  • compass or gps and/or map
  • cell phone
  • lip balm
  • snacks or food
  • extra days worth of food and snacks in case emergency
  • small tarp for making a tent
  • knife
  • waterproof container
  • snake bite kit
  • hand sanitizer
  • camera
  • toilet paper

Depending on where you are hiking and how long the trail is, you may or may not want to bring all of the supplies listed above. However, it’s always good to be prepared!

That same trail I took with my five year old I mentioned above? We ended up finishing the trail in the dark because it took us longer than planned. However, I had packed flashlights and we were able to find our way back to camp easily.

It’s also important to know what type of wildlife is present in the area you intend to hike. For instance, in Southeastern Kentucky we have a lot of Black Bears. From time to time we see bears in parks where we are hiking. You should know what to do if you encounter a wild animal and make sure your children understand as well.

Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and if you want to have more protection from snake bites, long jeans are a good choice.

Over the years I’ve taken my kids on some pretty amazing and strenuous trails. They love to hike!

Here are a few of our other adventures:

We’ve had many more adventures in God’s creation, too! Children need to be outside. It’s so good for them. Especially in this day and age when children are so glued to electronics!

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Hiking as a family is a great way to grow closer to each other and to God.

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5 Tips for Hiking with Kids {ABC's of Summer Fun} @ AVirtuousWoman.org


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