Hiking Havasupai with kids

Picture this. You’re scrolling through social media, and suddenly, you see it – a majestic waterfall cascading over a red rock ledge and flowing into the most unreal turquoise-blue water you have ever seen. You wonder if the image is some sort of Photoshop magic, so you investigate. It turns out that the water really is that color. The red cliffs are real, and the waterfall actually exists.

From the moment I saw my first photo of Havasu Falls, I knew that I had to go there. Quickly, I added it to my bucket list and started researching. I didn’t know right away if hiking Havasupai with kids would be something that could happen. I dug around the internet and asked friends who had been before, and I’m here to give you all of the tips and tricks for hiking Havasupai with kids.

What is Havasupai?

The Havasupai Reservation is located in Northern Arizona. The reservation is surrounded by Grand Canyon National Park. It is home to the Havasupai Tribe of Native Americans. Members of this tribe have been living in the area for longer than has been recorded. Some say they have resided there for more than 1,000 years. The United States government allotted the tribe 188,000 acres of land. As of the 2020 census, a little over 200 people lived on the reservation. Visiting the Supai village is a privilege. There is no other place on earth quite like it. 

Havasupai is a remote and stunningly beautiful area known for its vibrant blue-green waterfalls, red rock landscapes, and the Havasupai Native American tribe that calls it home. The name “Havasupai” translates to “people of the blue-green water” in the Havasupai language, perfectly encapsulating the area’s most distinctive feature—the mesmerizing turquoise waters that flow through Havasu Creek.

The term Supai refers to the village within the Havasupai Indian reservation. Supai Village is the only inhabited area in the Havasu Canyon and serves as the administrative and cultural center of the Havasupai tribe. Havasu refers to the blue-green water of the creek. Havasupai encompasses the tribe as a whole, reflecting their historical and cultural ties to the breathtaking natural environment of the Grand Canyon.

Why visit Havasupai?

There are no roads that take you down into the Supai village. The only way to access it is by foot or by helicopter. The trek from the parking lot trailhead to the bottom of the canyon is 8 miles. There’s something special about going places that you can’t drive to. Remote places like this are getting harder and harder to find. With the incredible beauty of the waterfalls, Havasu Creek, and the towering canyon walls on either side, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Havasupai is not just a destination; it’s a classroom where adults and kids alike can learn about geology, ecology, and Native American history in an immersive and enchanting setting. For families seeking an extraordinary blend of adventure and education, Havasupai stands as an unparalleled destination, promising a journey filled with awe, inspiration, and shared memories that will endure for generations. 

When to hike Havasupai

The best time of year to visit Havasupai with kids is typically during the spring and fall seasons. April through June and September through October offer ideal weather conditions for a family adventure in the canyon. During spring, the temperatures are mild, creating a comfortable environment for hiking and camping. The waterfalls are also likely to be flowing at their peak during this time. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38°C), making it less suitable for families, especially with young children. Monsoon season in Havasupai typically occurs during the months of July and August. This period is characterized by increased rainfall, which can lead to flash floods in the canyon. Winter can bring colder temperatures and the potential for snow, making trail conditions challenging.

Accommodations in Havasupai

Hiking Havasupai (with or without kids) is not a day trip. Anyone entering the reservation must have previously made arrangements with either the campground or the lodge in Supai Village. The minimum stay is 3 nights. A room at the lodge for 3 nights in 2024 is $2277. 2024 Camping prices are $455 per person per night, with a 3 night minimum as well. My family and I went in 2023, and the lodge was under renovation at the time. We stayed in the campground. Campground reservations can be difficult to secure (see below for more info). 

The campground is 2 miles from the Village of Supai, where the lodge is located. It’s an easy 2-mile hike, and you even get to go past one of the smaller but still amazing waterfalls – Little Navajo Falls. There is a part of the trail where you cross Havasu Creek, just before entering the campground. My kids loved going over the bridges. I was a tad nervous because we had our packs on, and the bridges were temporary (more on that later), but no one fell in, and we all made it to the campground safe and sound! 

Reservations at Havasupai

The increasing popularity of Havasupai over the last decade or more has led to a fairly complicated campground reservation system. The first order of business is to create an account with the tribe. Initially, you can try to get in on their lottery for reservation dates. The chances of you getting chosen in the lottery system are very slim. 

Cancellations

However, another option is to take advantage of another group’s cancellation. You can go to the website and click on the link for cancellations/transfers. This list updates daily with reservation cancellations. This is how we got our reservations.

The hard part about the cancellation system is that the reservation is already made for specific dates and for a specific number of people. You have to be willing to go for the dates available with the correct number of people. It took me checking every single day for months before I found a date and a group size that fit what we needed. And you have to snatch it up immediately when you see it, because by the end of the day the available cancellations have usually all been taken. May the odds be ever in your favor!

Additional resources

The tribe also has an official Facebook page with loads of great information. As your trip to Havasupai with kids draws closer, you’ll want to check into things like the weather and other updates from the tribe. Their Facebook page is a wonderful place to read the experiences of others who hiked there recently and read information that the tribe has put out regarding trail conditions, etc.

Pack mule reservations

One other consideration to make when planning your trip to Havasupai with kids is whether or not you’ll use pack mules. You can pay to have some of the tribe members strap your packs to a mule and transport your gear to the bottom of the canyon for you. More information can be found on the reservations page after you create your account with the link above. There will be a button titled “Your Pack Mule Reservation.” 

Preparing for the hike (where to stay the night before)

Once you’ve made all your reservations, you’ll want to pack your bags. If you need information on how to pack for a backpacking trip with kids, check out that linked post for tons of great ideas and gear recommendations.

The thing about hiking Havasupai with kids is that the closest overnight accommodations are located at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn in Peach Springs, AZ. If you want to get an early start on the hike (which I highly recommend), you will want to be as close to Hualapai Hilltop (the trailhead) as possible the night before. 

Grand Canyon Caverns Inn is also the pickup point for the tags you will need to have on your packs if you are sending them via pack mule and the permit you need to get onto the reservation. All I have to say about this place is that I am glad we only stayed one night. It’s definitely an experience. It’s a little over an hour’s drive from the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn to the trailhead.

On your drive, you’ll come to a stop sign that seems to be in the middle of nowhere. Someone will be at the stop sign checking to make sure you have a reservation, so you’ll want to have your paperwork handy. Once you pass this checkpoint, you’re almost to the trail head! You haven’t even started your adventure and it’s already been quite a road trip! 

Hiking the Supai Village trail

The distance from the Hualapai Hilltop trailhead to Supai Village is 8 miles. I won’t lie to you; it’s a long hike and a hard 8 miles. You start with a series of switchbacks going down into the canyon. There is almost no shade for most of the 8 miles, so be prepared with lots of sunscreen and any other sun protection you want.

In the summer months, temperatures can surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit. We made the trek in March. The temperatures were mild, but the sun was shining. I made sure everyone had lots of water and encouraged them to remember to stay hydrated. 

Supai Village is a wonderful sight to see after hiking for 8 miles! We stopped at the little cafe there and ordered a snack to share. Then we started on towards the campground. Just before you get to the campground you’re met with the most amazing view of Havasu Falls! It makes all of the previous 10 miles worth it. 

Finding a campsite at Havasupai

The Havasupai Campground has no marked sites. All of the spaces are first come, first served. The Havasu Creek runs right through the campground, so if you can find a flat spot beside the turquoise waters you should snatch it.

The campground has a spring where campers can get fresh, clean water to fill their water bottles, as well as composting toilets on each end of the campground. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper though. 

There are some picnic tables dispersed throughout the campground. You’ll have to get there early if you want to set up your tent near a table. In my experience, other campers will share the table with you if you ask. It’s hard to cook without a table or a flat surface. Campfires are not allowed. You’ll need to cook on a portable stove.

Mooney Falls

After your first dayjust getting to the campground, it’s time to explore. The far end of the campground overlooks another phenomenal waterfall – Mooney Falls. We hiked down to this waterfall on our second day. From the top, it looks like a treacherous journey getting down. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the hike for you.

In order to get down to Mooney Falls, you’ll have to use the metal chain anchored into the canyon wall. There was a pile of gloves at the beginning of the descent, but if you’re very concerned about having gloves, please bring your own.

The chain is very wet. It isn’t hard to hold onto, though. The spray from the waterfall is continually soaking the area where the chain is. You’ll definitely get damp on your way down, and back up, the chain. In the summer this would probably be very refreshing! In the spring we didn’t take too long to dry so it wasn’t unpleasant to get a little wet. When was the last time you were close enough to a waterfall to get wet in its spray? I say embrace this amazing experience!

We stayed at Mooney Falls for a short time. The kids wore their swimming suits and got in the water a bit. It was magical to sit there and take in the waterfall. Mooney Falls was my favorite of all the waterfalls we saw in Havasupai. 

Beaver Falls

The hike from Mooney Falls to Beaver Falls is about 3 miles. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but you will cross Havasu Creek several times during those three miles. As you’re traveling with kids, this will take a while. Parts of the creek are fairly deep, about to an adult’s thigh. The water wasn’t moving very quickly while we were there, but you will want to be sure that your kids are within arm’s distance when crossing the creek.

The rocks in the creek shift easily and are slippery in places. There was one crossing where almost everyone in our group fell at the same part of the creek! Plan on getting wet by bringing quick dry clothes or packing an extra set of clothes in a waterproof bag. 

Bridges and ladders

When you’re almost to Beaver Falls you will come to a series of ladders leading up and down the boulders. There is also a creek crossing that, when we were there, was too deep to wade through. There was an existing “bridge” made up of a couple of narrow logs/boards that led to a rope you could grab to help yourself up a ladder waiting on the other side.

This, by far, required the most bravery and skill to accomplish, but everyone in our group made it safely to Beaver Falls. The youngest member of our group was 11 years old. I was never worried about whether they would make it, but we had to work together to get everyone up, down, and across all of the many obstacles between Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls.

When we got to Beaver Falls, a member of the tribe was there making sure everyone who went to the falls made it back out. There was a storm coming in, and it did end up raining hard that night. The tribal member let us know that we needed to head back to the campground by a certain hour, for safety reasons. 

Footwear considerations for hiking in Havasupai

Footwear is another important part of hiking in this area. Because you will be crossing the water several times, you’ll want to have suitable shoes or sandals. This could be sandals, water shoes, or regular tennis shoes if you have a backup pair to put on after the hike. The actual hiking part requires sturdy soles, so if you bring water shoes, I would either change into your hiking boots after crossing the water or bring water shoes with a sturdy sole.

I will also note that my husband carried several children (and also me) across the creek more than once. It took a long time to take socks and shoes off and then put them back on again after crossing. He’s a trooper!

Havasupai wildlife

Another highlight of our hike on this day was the wildlife. The canyon has a rich biodiversity of native species, such as mule deer, bobcats and bighorn sheep. We came around a bend and saw several bighorn sheep just hanging out on the side of the trail. They took no notice of us and continued to eat their delicious green grass.

The calls of canyon wrens echo through the air, while colorful songbirds flit among the vibrant foliage as you’re hiking. Keep a keen eye out for the turkey vultures soaring overhead and the acrobatic antics of agile squirrels and chipmunks scampering through the lush undergrowth. 

The Confluence

Though we only made it to Beaver Falls, the trail continues to the confluence of the Colorado River and Havasu Creek. From what I have read about this part of the hike, it requires even more water crossings and is not easy.

It’s about 5 miles from Beaver Falls to the confluence. I don’t think I would attempt it with younger children. However, if I had teenagers and they wanted to do the hike, I think it would be a realistic goal to make it to the confluence.

Day three activities: rest, explore, and fry bread

The tribe requires a three-night reservation, so on the third day, we got to rest a bit. We hiked the few miles back into the village for a snack from the cafe there. At the top of the hill, just before reaching the campground, there is something you will not want to miss. A couple of tribal members set up a fry bread stand. My son said eating the fry bread was the highlight of the trip, which is so funny to me! After you purchase the fry bread there is a table with chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, peanut butter, honey, powdered sugar, and more. I think the kids put every one of the toppings on their fry bread!

After the most delicious fry bread treat we made our way back to the campground. We napped, played cards, swam in the turquoise water of Havasu Falls, and just enjoyed being in such an incredibly beautiful place.

The hike out of Havasupai

In all honesty, I was incredibly nervous about the hike out. Hiking down into a canyon and hiking all the way back up it are two very different things. The hardest part of the hike back, all of the switchbacks, is at the very end on the way back up. They come after hiking over 8 miles from the campground. The lack of shade made me nervous too, because if all went as planned, we would be getting to the switchbacks a little after midday, when the sun is high. 

Turns out I had nothing to worry about. The kids were literally running up the switchbacks at the end of the trail. They were so excited to get back to the car and take their packs off, they had no trouble with the switchbacks or lack of energy. I brought up the rear, and they were all waiting for me as I came up to the last turn! 

Hiking Havasupai with kids

Hiking Havasupai with kids is not for the faint of heart. It requires a lot of preparation and must be planned months in advance. However, all of the planning and preparation are worth it. As you navigate the rocky red landscape and crystalline waters of Havasupai with your children, the bond forged through shared challenges and the sense of accomplishment will create lasting memories for your entire family. Witnessing the wide-eyed wonder of your little ones as they explore this natural wonderland is a testament to the profound impact that such an expedition can have on young minds!

The breathtaking beauty of Havasupai, coupled with the educational experiences it offers, makes every moment invested in preparation worthwhile. It’s a journey that goes beyond the physical exertion, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and instilling in your children a lifelong appreciation for the great outdoors. The experience is one that you will look back on for the rest of your life and think, “I can’t believe we did that!”

Have you ever hiked Havasupai with kids?
Would you consider it?

About the author

Wendy is a married momma who recently moved from San Diego to Virginia. She’s raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out of doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as the garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth; we just have to open our eyes to see it.

You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

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Staying active and getting outside while pregnant

Hiking has always been a huge part of my life and something that brings me great joy. Getting outside and staying active is a major part of who I am. However, being a mom and growing our family is an even bigger part of my life. I knew when I got pregnant that I wanted to find a way to combine these two parts of me, but I wasn’t sure what hiking and getting outside would look like through pregnancy and after my baby was born. 

If you’re reading this with a tiny person doing somersaults in your belly, congratulations on embarking on the wild ride of motherhood. I’m here to spill the beans (or should I say, the trail mix?) on my journey of hiking and staying active outdoors throughout not one, but four pregnancies. As a mother to four young daughters (6yo, 4yo, 2yo & 2 weeks), I have learned the beauty of staying active throughout pregnancy and in those first few months after having a baby. While each pregnancy was different in terms of activity level, it always felt great to be outside in some capacity.

Every step counts

Now, before you imagine a scene from a superhero movie with a pregnant woman scaling a mountain in full gear, let me set the record straight. My hiking experiences were a bit less intense (and much slower) than that (and usually involved a toddler or two), but every step counts! No matter whether you’re hiking in the mountains or taking a stroll through your local park, getting outside and staying active during your pregnancy is so good for you, in so many ways! 

In this post, I’m sharing my insights on why embracing the great outdoors during pregnancy is not only good for your sanity but also a great way to nurture your changing body and help your other kids burn some of that endless energy. We’ll dive into the importance of channeling your inner nature goddess while growing a tiny human. Spoiler alert: It involves more fresh air and less time analyzing the nutritional content of pickles.

Tips for hiking while pregnant

Pregnancy can be scary and daunting. It can be tough not knowing what the future holds. If you’re worried about the logistics of hiking with a baby bump, don’t fret—I’ve got your back (and your front, thanks to the growing belly). I’ll be sharing my own outdoor escapades, along with practical tips to keep you healthy, safe, and feeling like the warrior mama you are.

Here are some tips I have learned throughout my pregnancy journeys. 

1. Always consult with your doctor first

Every pregnancy is different, and every mama is different. While being active can be a huge positive throughout pregnancy, it is always smart to check with your healthcare professional before venturing on a hike. 

Hiking can be fairly low-risk, depending on the trail, and has great physical and emotional benefits! My medical team recommended wearing a maternity support belt as I hike, and that helped my back tremendously as my baby grew. 

If you are on a hike and something is not feeling right, listen to your body and trust your gut. 

2. Choose the right trail and terrain for you

In my first trimester, I typically am a little more dizzy/not feeling as well. So, I like to stick to flat, paved trails to help with my balance. Some of my hiking friends like using hiking poles while pregnant to help with their balance as well. Once I’m past the nausea and entering my second trimester, I love getting back to some of my favorite unpaved trails. 

I also prefer trails that I have hiked on before, and I am comfortable with the terrain. Choosing trails that I know helps me feel mentally prepared to take it on (as I know what to expect) so that I don’t get in a situation that’s a little too much for me. 

Start small and go from there. Take a slower pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery! 

Family Hike at Beckemeier Conservation Area

3. Always bring snacks and water

I’m always hungry, but even more so while pregnant! When hiking pregnant, it’s important to make sure you have plenty of snacks and water to keep you hydrated and happy! My go-tos on the trail are protein bars, apples, oranges, trail mix, or popcorn. I’m usually with one of my kiddos, too, so I always pack more snacks than I think I need!

Mamas need so much water throughout pregnancy, so it makes sense to drink even more while on a hike. I love using a Camelbak for ease of access to water while hiking!

4. Hike with others

Sharing your outdoor experiences with others amplifies the fun! I co-lead a free, hiking group for families once a week where we live. This has helped me tremendously throughout my pregnancies. I get a chance to talk with other mamas and try new trails together. It also holds me accountable to get outside, when I may be feeling nauseous that day or the weather is not favorable. 

There is also peace of mind that if something happened on a trail with my pregnancy, I’d be surrounded by others to help me. Also, hiking with friends is just the best, as well as seeing our kids explore together! 

Nature Group Hike at Queeny Park. If you are local, join our Facebook group at “Nature Play STL”

5. Be aware of your cell phone reception

If I’m alone on a trail, I make sure I have a fully-charged cell phone with me (and sometimes I also bring a battery backup/charger) and I tell my husband my planned route. I text him when I head out on the trail and again when I’m safely back to my car. I choose trails that I am comfortable with (know the terrain and what to expect) and also trails that are within cell reception. 

Just in case, something happens during a hike, I like knowing that I can reach someone for help quickly with my phone. 

6. Wear the right clothes and shoes

I highly recommend dressing as comfortably as you can when hiking while pregnant. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and dry. Dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes, and don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen for sun protection. 

Also, if you’re hiking a lot while pregnant, you may want to consider investing in supportive footwear. A comfortable pair of supportive and well-fitted shoes is crucial. Supportive hiking shoes or boots will help you with balance and slipping (neither of which is good while pregnant) and keep you more stable so you don’t fall or twist anything. Keep in mind that your feet may swell during pregnancy (and after), so make sure your footwear accommodates these changes. Don’t wear shoes that are too tight, which could be painful and cut off circulation. 

7. Carrying a younger child

If it is okay with your doctor, I still like to wear a baby carrier during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. At 39 weeks pregnant, my doctor gave me the okay to wear my toddler on hikes to try to get labor started! I went into labor a few days later, so maybe it helped!! 

I was still able to wear my carrier (I really like my Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier) with my larger belly, and the hip strap goes under the baby to keep less pressure off. 

Almost 39 weeks…trying to get labor started!

8. Take your time and listen to your body

Pay attention to how you feel during the hike and take your time. There’s no rush to get to the end of the trail and no award for getting there first! If you start feeling fatigued, dizzy, or experiencing any discomfort, it’s okay to take a break or cut the hike short. Bring food and water on your hikes and take regular breaks to sip and stay well-hydrated. Your body is working hard, and it’s essential to honor its signals.

9. Have a potty plan

Another reason I like to stick to trails I know when I’m hiking while pregnant is because I know where the restrooms are along my route. If you’ve been pregnant before, you know that your baby bump can do a number on your bladder! With the need for more frequent bathroom breaks, it’s better to be prepared and know what to expect. Go before you hit the trail and bring a Kula Cloth with you, in case you need to go along the way. 

10. Be aware of your surroundings

Whether pregnant or not, it’s always important to be aware of what’s going on around you when hiking or out in nature. Keep an eye on the weather forecast before you hit the trail. Unfavorable weather conditions, such as extreme heat, heavy rain, or thunderstorms, can pose risks. Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. And familiarize yourself with the wildlife in the area and take any necessary precautions. While most wildlife will steer clear of humans, it’s best to be aware. Make noise while hiking to alert animals to your presence, and if you encounter wildlife, give them plenty of space.

Other ways to stay active outside while pregnant

Staying active during pregnancy doesn’t always have to involve conquering trails. There are so many enjoyable and low-impact outdoor activities to keep you active outside while pregnant. You could do prenatal yoga outside in a park, go biking on a greenway, or swimming in your local pool. A simple stroll through the neighborhood with the kids after dinner is always a favorite tradition of ours. 

For me, second trimester is a sweet spot when adventuring while pregnant. When I was pregnant with my fourth child, we went bikepacking, backpacking, and tent camping during my second trimester (again, check with your doctor first). An e-bike and a good air mattress were life-savers!! These activities not only kept me moving but also helped us feel a sense of togetherness and created lasting memories before the baby came.

I was thankful for a very healthy pregnancy this time around, which hasn’t always been the case. It felt great to move outside and explore with my family. 

Taking a ride on our Bunch Bike, which has three wheels. It is a great and stable option for riding your bike while pregnant!

Adventures while pregnant

Adventuring does not have to stop when you are pregnant. In fact, it really does get better.

There’s nothing like feeling those precious baby kicks while walking through the woods or doing something fun outside that you enjoy. 

Exploring may look a little different while pregnant (and again once your baby arrives), but sharing your love of hiking with your kids is so special! 

Happy exploring!

About the author

Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their four daughters (ages 6, 4, 2 & 2 weeks), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!

Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant. 

You can find more from Steph in the following locations:
Instagram: @explorestlparks
RWMC posts: Steph Hampton

The post Hiking & Staying Active Outdoors While Pregnant appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Fall hiking with kids

Hiking is our favorite family outdoor activity year-round, but our favorite time of year to go on nature hikes is definitely the Fall. We live in New England, so the natural changes of the season are so pronounced, and it’s a cooler and quieter time to get outside. The changing colors of the leaves make our hike feel like we’re walking through a postcard. The cool, crisp air is refreshing after a hot summer. 

Would you like to experience fall hiking with your kids? Well, keep reading because I have a few tricks to make your adventures safe and fun for all!

Picking a trail for your fall nature hike

Are you in a rut, hiking with your kids on the same nature trail every time you explore? Are you ready to make hiking feel exciting again for your kids? While re-hiking the same route has benefits, sometimes it’s nice to explore a new-to-you location! Hiking in a new location opens all kinds of possibilities and exciting finds for kids. Not knowing exactly what to expect can be part fo the fun (especially for older kids).

I have a few methods for finding new hiking trails near us: (1) using the All Trails app (they have a free version!), (2) checking out local Land Trust websites, and (3) visiting the nearby town’s natural resource department web pages. These resources will usually have a list of any local trails they own and maintain. Sometimes, these pages will have trail maps, lengths, and even a description of what to expect in the area.

Another idea is to check out your local library or bookstore for hiking guides. Where we live on Cape Cod, there are so many! None of them were necessarily geared toward families, so I ended up writing my own. It’s called “50 Cape Cod Hiking Trails” and is available at local shops and on Amazon, too!

What to pack for fall hiking with kids

It’s always best to be prepared when hiking with kids, no matter the season. We bring a hiking bag filled with what we’ll need every time we go out on a trail. Usually, our little nature walks are under three miles, so we don’t need much, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Sometimes, my kids bring their own backpacks or fanny packs, but generally, they want me to be the pack horse, and I’m okay with that, too!

Here’s a list of the essentials we keep in our bag:

• First aid kit – you can find these at most grocery stores, pharmacies, or sporting goods stores. I also recommend keeping one in the car at all times as well.
• Bug spray– we almost always spray our shoes and clothes before heading out on a trail, but I bring it along in case we need a refresh.
• Baby wipes – we use these before we eat a snack, if someone has an emergency bathroom break, or for sticky encounters such as slugs, sap, or mud puddles!
• Tecnu wipes – these are wipes used if you come into contact with poison ivy. I highly recommend them if this noxious plant affects you or your kids.
• SNACKS! – a must-have with doing absolutely anything with kids. More on this essential below. 
• Wet bag– these reusable, washable bags are a lifesaver. I use them for any trash we accumulate or soiled or wet clothes. The snap loops on the packs are great for attaching to your backpack.
• Water– our backpack has water bottle holders on each side. I like to bring our reusable water bottles along on any trail we walk.

For more info on what to pack when hiking with kids, see our full post on the 10 Essentials for Hiking with Kids. 

What to wear when fall hiking with kids

With the change in season comes cooler temperatures, so it’s best to dress appropriately. Layering is the key to comfortable dressing in the fall! You can always shed or add layers to adjust as temperature changes or you warm up (or cool down) on your hikes.

On warmer days, we still wear a single-layer shirt, but bring a sweatshirt or light jacket. On colder days, wear an additional coat over a sweater or sweatshirt. When choosing hiking shoes, I always opt for closed-toe waterproof shoes or boots if it has been raining lately or if the trail we are walking has a pond or beach nearby. Wool socks are always my go-to, as they keep the feet warm and dry.

We also keep a set of clothes and shoes in the car at all times in case we need to change after our hike, as oftentimes, we’re hiking near water and it’s inevitable that the kids will get wet and/or muddy. 

Check out our full post on the best hiking shoes for kids. 

Tick prevention while hiking in the fall with kids

While you may encounter fewer mosquitoes and gnats while hiking in the fall, ticks can still be active during this season. If you live in an area where ticks are prevalent, it’s a smart idea to wear bug spray or take other precautions. All-natural bug sprays exist, but we chose this brand as it works great. If you aren’t into using bug sprays, you can take other precautions like wearing light colors, long sleeves and pants, hats, and tucking your pants into your socks. As always, make sure to do thorough tick checks after every hike.

Activities for your fall nature walks with kids

While simply walking through the woods in the fall with your kids, breathing in that fresh air, and getting some exercise can be fun enough for most people, sometimes our kids need a little more motivation to keep their feet moving down that trail. With an arsenal of activities at the ready, your kids will be excited to go on your next Fall hiking adventure. Here are some ideas for what works for my family. Hopefully, these fun hiking activities will work for your family, too!

1. Add wheels! 

You might think scooting or biking down a paved pathway through a park or wooded area isn’t hiking. And you may be technically right. But, it still involves moving your body, enjoying nature, and being outside, which counts as a hike in my eyes! (Plus, I’m still hiking, as scootering isn’t quite my thing.) 

My boys love to visit our local state park, Nickerson State Park. There are miles of paved trails that wind through hilly woodlands. It’s a beautiful spot to explore, and the boys love bringing their scooters, skateboards, or bikes along for the adventure. If you have access to paved trails around you, break out some wheels and let them go at it! It’s a whole different way to explore (and burns a ton of energy!). 

2. Hike with friends

What is more fun than a fall nature hike? A fall nature hike with friends!

We have a group of friends that try to walk weekly, with children aged two to ten. We pick stroller-friendly walks so the little ones can take a ride if they need a break. The older kids have fun running ahead and playing together. It is an excellent exercise for us moms and gives us time to catch up with one another.

If you’re interested in getting a group together for hiking or just an outdoor play date, consider creating a hiking club with friends or other families in your neighborhood! Here’s a great resource about how to get started organizing an outdoor playgroup. 

3. Fall leaf activities for kids

Walking in the woods during this time of year is dreamy – crisp, cool air, bright sunny days, and leaves crunching beneath your feet. The leaves are so colorful and pretty this time of year; why not use those leaves for activities once you get home?

While out on your hike, have your kids collect leaves along the path for activities back at home.. (Who said the fun had to stop once you leave the trail.) Start with something fun and easy, like crayon rubbings. Just lay a dry leaf on a flat surface, cover it with paper, and rub the side crayon over the leaf. The result will be an artistic copy of your leaf treasure!

Try with different species of leaves, cut them out, and create a garland. Or, keep your leaves to make a leaf crown. Preserve the leaves by dipping them in beeswax and using them for home decor. Whatever you don’t use, just toss back outside once you’re done! Who knew fall hiking with kids could be so fun?

Check out our full post filled with fall leaf activities for kids. 

4. Fall hiking scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are an excellent activity for kids of all ages, are low-cost (or even free), and can be done nearly anywhere (including the hiking trail). They keep kids motivated to continue along the trail to check their finds off the list. 

Scavenger hunts are easy to find and/or create. We have a free downloadable Scavenger Hunt Bundle for Kids that has scavenger hunts for all the seasons and various locations and celebrations. 

If you choose to make your scavenger hunt, you can include items that are native to where you’ll be hiking and what’s going on at this particular time of year. You can include items such as a red leaf, a giant boulder, a wooly caterpillar, a tree with no leaves, ice (if your autumn is extra chilly!), acorns, seed pods, etc. The possibilities are endless.

You can print a paper scavenger hunt or use an iPad or phone to track your findings!

5. DIY hiking sticks for your fall hike

One of the best DIY activities I’ve done with my kids is to make our own hiking sticks! It’s a pretty simple activity, once you’ve gathered your tools and supplies. All you really need is the perfect-sized stick (this can be your kids’ mission to find when out hiking), and a few colorful accessories like ribbons, string, bells, or paint.

Once you’ve made your hiking stick, you can keep it in the car to bring it on all your fall hikes with your kids! They will be proud of their creations, which help hike uneven terrain! Also, I love a good craft project using found items in nature, don’t you?

Here’s the full tutorial I wrote on how to make your own hiking sticks with kids. 

6. Make a fall mandala

What’s a mandala? According to Wikipedia, “A mandala is a geometric configuration of symbols. In various spiritual traditions, mandalas may be employed for focusing the attention of practitioners and adepts, as a spiritual guidance tool, for establishing a sacred space, and as an aid to meditation and trance induction.” 

In its simplest form, a mandala is a circular structure with a design that radiates out symmetrically from the center. You can find natural mandalas in flowers, tree rings, the sun, eyes, snowflakes, spider webs, sea shells, seeds, fruits, and more. There is no right or wrong way to make one which is why it is such a wonderful way to engage children to make their own mandalas using items they find in nature.

Create your mandala by collecting items along your hike, such as leaves, acorns, twigs, shells, or rocks, and assemble your mandala. It’s best to find a smooth, flat surface to construct your nature-themed mandala. You’ll be surprised how beautiful these creations turn out. Be sure to take a photo, as you can’t bring your art home!

7. Bring your pet on your fall nature walk

Do you have a four-legged friend who loves the outdoors, too? Consider bringing your pup along on your next fall hike! Not only will this keep the kids entertained, but everyone will get extra exercise and fresh air! 

Dogs love to spend time with you and enjoy all the sights (and smells!) in the woods. Just remember to follow guidelines for dog leashing and dog waste for the trail you choose. Also, your dog might get thirsty too. We like this collapsible bowl, as it’s a space saver and convenient to keep in our hiking backpack.

8. Let your child lead your fall hike

A fun way to get your kids excited about hiking is to give them control! Kids rarely feel like they get to be in charge, so this is a fun way to hand over the reins on your next fall hike and let them make some decisions. Start by letting them choose which trail you’ll hike. Give them control of packing what you’ll need for the hike and which snacks to pack (with supervision, of course). Once you get to the trail, let them find the trailhead, lead the way, and decide to take a left or right, and when to stop for a snack break.

My boys enjoy taking turns being the leader, and they thrive when they control our adventure. I think it’s great practice for them to make decisions and think about their actions. I hope this trick works for your family, too!

9. Take a fall hike at night

The sun is setting earlier this time of year, and it may be cutting into your outdoor time. Let’s take advantage of the earlier darkness and take a night hike! Star-gaze, take a flashlight hike, or even go owling!

• Star gazing: Take a walk outside on a clear night, preferably away from street lights. Check out the stars above and see if you can identify any constellations or plants. Bonus points if you catch a shooting star!
• Lantern/flashlight hike: We like to do lantern or flashlight hikes on trails we are already familiar with, so we know what to expect regarding terrain and trail layout. Bring along a flashlight to light the way. Trust me, it is so fun! 
• Owling: Owling is when you go out at night to look and listen for owls. If you have a nature preserve near you, check to see if they lead owling walks; it’s a great introduction to this activity. If not, go for one on your own. Just remember, avoid using flashlights, and stay quiet. Going on a non-windy night is best so the wind won’t obscure the owl’s sounds. Before you head out owling, look at photos of owls local to your area and listen to their calls.

Check out our full post all about Owling with Kids.

Photo credit: @raising_little_naturalists

Best fall hiking snacks for kids

As parents, we know that snacks are an essential part of every day for our kids. It’s no different when you’re going out on a trail! Bringing enough snacks is the key to success for any activity with kids!

Here are some shelf-stable snack ideas for you to tote along and make your fall hiking adventure successful:

• Trail mix
• Granola bars
• Dry cereal
• Clementines
• Apples
• Bananas
• Beef sticks/jerky
• Peanut butter and crackers
• Popcorn
• Dried fruit
• Apple sauce pouches

Pro tip: You can use that wet bag in your hiking backpack to hold the waste from your snacks until you return home to dispose of it!

For more, check out our full post on trail-tested and kid-approved hiking snacks.

Fall hiking books for kids

I always like to recommend books that will support the information shared in my posts. The following books can be found at most bookstores and libraries; I hope you check them out!

• Owl Moon by Jane Yolen – This book is a story about a child going owling with their father. It makes me want to go on a night hike on a chilly fall evening.
• On the Nature Trail, a Backpack Explorer Book – This durable activity book is one I have consistently bought as a gift for nature-loving kids.
• We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt by Steve Metzger – Remember the iconic storybook “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt?” This book is similar but fall-themed and so cute!
• The Busy Tree, by Jennifer Ward – This book has beautiful illustrations and explains how different animals use trees and how important each piece of the tree is.

Fall hiking with kids

As you lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the trails with your little ones this fall, remember that the beauty of the season goes beyond the colorful leaves—it’s in the shared laughter, the time spent outside together, and the connection you made during your hike. Embrace the magic of the season, using the activities and ideas in this post to make your fall family hikes truly special. 

I hope this information was helpful and got you motivated and excited to explore some hiking trails with your children this Fall. Now, get out there and explore! Happy hiking!

About the author

Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod.” Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

The post Fall Hiking with Kids: Tips, Tricks, Activities & Snacks appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Tips to plan a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Embarking on an adventure to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your little ones in tow promises to be a memorable experience filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and cherished family moments. Nestled on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this enchanting national park boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that appeals to visitors of all ages.

However, planning a successful and enjoyable trip with kids requires some preparation and research. In this comprehensive blog post, I’ll delve into a treasure trove of tips and tricks to help parents orchestrate an unforgettable visit to the Great Smoky Mountains, ensuring that both young explorers and grown-ups can fully immerse themselves in the wonders of this majestic wilderness. From interactive learning opportunities to family-friendly hikes and wildlife spotting, get ready to create lasting memories while fostering a deep love for nature within your children.

1. Best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains

The best times to visit the park are late spring through fall. Parts of the park reach elevations over 6,000 ft, which means winter can bring snow and closed roads. Early spring means fewer visitors but the weather can be cool and rainy. Late spring means abundant wildflowers, gushing waterfalls, and a chance to visit before the summer crowds arrive. Summer is the most popular and therefore, the busiest time in the park. The warmer weather means the option for water activities such as tubing, wading, and white water rafting. Fall is also a popular time with stunning fall foliage to view. 

2. Tips for avoiding crowds in the Great Smoky Mountains

As the most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountain National Park crowds are a constant problem. The parking areas at the most popular hiking trails and overlooks can fill up quickly, especially in the summer. If you are planning to visit a popular trail with limited parking, try to arrive as early as possible. If the lot if full, obey all no parking signs and do NOT park on the grass or roads without shoulders or paved pull-off areas.

On busy summer days, it can be best to seek trails and areas to explore that are more off the beaten path and further away from the tourist hot spots of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. 

3. Bring a map

Cell service in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is very limited. Bring along a paper map or download offline maps onto your phone (you can down trailmaps offline with the AllTrails Plus membership). The national park visitor centers can provide road and trail maps of the park. Google Maps also now offers maps of all national parks that you can download as an offline map. 

4. Prepare for changing conditions

The elevation within the park can vary by around 5,000 feet from the lowest valleys to the highest peaks. This means you could experience a 20-degree temperature difference when driving through or exploring the park. The weather can also change quickly at higher elevations and go from sunny and warm to cold and rainy in a short time.

It’s best to plan ahead for all the temperature changes by packing layers. Even in summer, a waterproof jacket is a good idea to bring along, especially if you’re doing waterfall hikes, as you could get wet! And a change of clothes to have in the car is always recommended (just in case). 

4. Pack a picnic

There are no restaurants within the park boundaries, and the visitor centers sell only limited snacks and drinks. It can be a long drive from the middle of the park back out to one of the nearby towns for a meal. It is best to pack a lunch, water, and plenty of snacks to explore the park with kids. There are numerous picnic areas within the park. 

5. Purchase a parking pass

While there is no general admission fee for visiting Great Smoky Mountain National Park, there is a parking pass requirement. If you are parking in the park for more than 15 minutes, you must have a parking tag.

Parking tags can be purchased online in advance or at several park visitor centers or automated kiosks within the park. You can purchase a daily, weekly, or annual tag, which allows you to park anywhere within the park for that timeframe. 

6. Be bear aware

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with wildlife, including deer, elk, turkeys, and more. This also includes a large black bear population. While attacks by black bears are very rare, be sure to talk to kids about how to react if you encounter one. Be sure to store and dispose of all food properly, and do not approach wild animals. 

Where to stay at Great Smoky Mountains National Park with kids

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your kids, a range of options ensures that your family’s comfort and preferences are catered to. From rustic and charming cabins nestled within the woods to family-friendly campgrounds that invite you to experience the outdoors up close, the park offers accommodations that suit a variety of tastes.

LeConte Lodge

The only lodge inside the park is LeConte Lodge which sits atop Mount LeConte. The lodge is only accessible by foot, with several route options ranging from 5 to 8 miles each way. Advance reservations are required. 

Nearby towns

The nearby towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Bryson City offer an array of accommodations, from budget hotels to upscale resorts. You can also find an endless amount of cabins and vacation home rentals of all sized tucked away in the hills and valleys of the area.

Traffic can be an issue (especially in Gatlinburg), so be sure to choose your lodging location carefully to avoid being stuck in traffic. Some lodging locations can also be a longer drive from the more popular hiking trails in the park. 

Campgrounds

There are many campgrounds in the national park boundaries that offer both tent and RV sites along with restrooms. However, there are no water, sewer, or electrical hookups within the park. Many campgrounds located just outside the park boundaries offer full hookups and more amenities. 

Best hikes for kids at Great Smoky Mountains National Park 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great park to explore with kids. With over 800 miles of trails, there are many great options for all ages and skill levels. These are just a few of our favorite kid-friendly trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that we have found offer a great mix of scenery along with being suitable for younger ages. Keep in mind that most trailheads do not have restroom facilities, so plan accordingly!

1. Cataract Falls 

Cataract Falls is a short and easy waterfall hike. The trail is located right behind the restrooms at the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg. This hike is less than a mile roundtrip. The path crosses the creek over fun bridges and passes a cool hollow tree along the way to the 25′ tall waterfall. The waterfall is most impressive after heavy rain, but it is a pleasant hike any time. 

2. Laurel Falls

The Laurel Falls trail is one of the most popular hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A 1.3-mile each-way hike leads to a beautiful 80-foot-tall waterfall. The parking area is fairly small, although there are plans to expand it. I recommend arriving before 8 a.m. in order to find a spot as well as to hike the trail with fewer people.

The path to Laurel Falls is mostly paved in order to help prevent damage to the trail. However, the pavement is buckled and damaged in spots making the path not very accessible or stroller friendly. 

The trail winds gradually uphill towards the falls. There are some interesting rocks and views along the way. While the trail itself is fairly easy, keep young kids extra close. There are dangerous drop-offs along one edge of the trail in sections closer to the end. This is another reason why I recommend hiking the trail early, as passing people going in the opposite direction along the drop-off sections can be trickier. Do not climb the rocks near the waterfall, which can be slick. 

3. Deep Creek Trail

The Deep Creek trail is located in the less busy North Carolina side of the park near Bryson City. You can see a total of 3 waterfalls on this 2.2-mile loop. For an even shorter hike, you can pick one of the two closest waterfalls to the trailhead and just hike to one or both of those. All three are beautiful, and the trail is fairly wide. If you visit in summer, you can even rent a tube and ride down the beautiful and clear Deep Creek. This is one of the few hikes on the list that does have restrooms near the trailhead.

4. Middle Prong Trail

The Middle Prong Trail is one of my favorites in the Smokies. The trail follows an old railroad bed, so it is very wide, not too rough, and has a gentle incline. The trailhead starts right next to a rushing cascade as it crosses a bridge. Continue to follow the trail along the creek to see multiple waterfalls and cascades. The entire trail is 8 miles roundtrip, but you can just hike as far as you wish and return the way you came. 

5. Clingman’s Dome

What this trail lacks in length, it makes up for in steepness and views! Clingman’s Dome is the highest point in the park and a very popular hike. The trail is paved but steep, so strollers are not recommended. If you can huff your way up the 0.5 climb, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountaintops. It’s a great place to take those iconic photos of the rolling hills. However, we have been here twice and have yet to see those views due to the common fog and clouds you can encounter at this elevation (they call it “smoky” for a reason). You can also find restrooms and a visitor center at the Clingmans Dome trailhead. 

6. Look Rock 

If you are looking to escape the crowds at Clingman’s Dome, check out this alternative hike with great views. The trailhead is located on the scenic Foothills Parkway. The paved 1-mile round trip trail is paved and less steep than Clingman’s. The trail leads to an overlook tower with great views. Use caution with kids, as the wall around the overlook is not as tall as I would like with kids. 

7. Grotto Falls

This 2.8-mile round-trip hike is longer and a little tougher than Laurel Falls but without the steep drop-offs. The trail leads to a 25-foot tall waterfall that kids can even walk behind. The trailhead is located along the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Trail. Parking can be a little difficult, so it’s recommended to go early. 

8. Spruce Flat Falls

Spruce Flats Falls is a true hidden gem hike. The trail is well-developed, but it’s not on the official park map. The 2-mile round trip hike starts at the parking area of the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont. The trail is moderate due to the many tree roots on the path as well as the gradual climb up the hill and then back down leading to the waterfall. The water is generally shallow below the falls and a nice spot for kids to splash.  

8. Alum Cave Bluffs

Alum Cave Bluffs is the toughest and longest hike on this list, but it’s also my favorite! This moderate hike gains 1,200 feet in elevation over 2.5 miles on the way to the dramatic bluff overhang known as Alum Cave. Along the way, the path follows a rushing creek and passes through a natural rock tunnel known as Arch Rock. This trail also offers great mountain views. Older kids may be able to press on to reach the summit of Mount LeConte by hiking an additional 2.5 miles past Alum Cave. 

9. Gatlinburg Trail

The Gatlinburg Trail is one of only two trails in the park that allow dogs and bicycles. It’s also a good path for jogging strollers. The trail is 1.9 miles each way between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the town of Gatlinburg. The trail offers views of the river and the remnants of old home sites. It’s an easy hike for most kids. 

10. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail

This is one of the only fully paved trails in the park. At only 0.5 miles round trip, it’s a great beginner hike for little legs and probably the easiest of the kid-friendly hikes on our list. 

More things to do in the Smoky Mountains with kids

While hiking is a popular activity in the Great Smoky Mountains, there are many other ways to explore this beautiful park. Whether you wish to enjoy the scenic views by car, explore by horseback, cast a line in a stream, or learn about the history of the region, there are endless activities for all ages and interests to enjoy.  Here are a few of the best things to do with kids in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with kids. 

1. Visit Cade’s Cove

Cade’s Cove is one of the most popular driving tours in the park. An 11-mile scenic loop offers access to hiking trails plus the chance to see wildlife and historic structures. About halfway through the scenic drive is a large parking area. This parking area offers access to a visitor center, restrooms, and several historic buildings to explore. 

The Cade’s Cove loop road closes to motor vehicles on Wednesdays from early May to late September. This is a great time to walk or bike the road without worrying about traffic. In the summer months, this road can get very busy. 

2. Explore the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

This one-way 6-mile scenic loop is located close to downtown Gatlinburg. The drive is beautiful, with rushing creeks and lush vegetation hugging the roadway. There are also a few historic structures you can stop and view. 

3. Earn Junior Ranger badges

For a few dollars, you can purchase a Junior Ranger book at any of the national park visitor centers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Junior Ranger program is a fantastic way to learn about the area you’re visiting in a fun way for kids of all ages. The National Park Service just rolled out a cool new book for Great Smoky Mountains National Park that is actually completed as a family. We were very impressed with the activities in the book, and they were creative and fun for all of us. Once completed, the kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge. 

4. Visit a ghost town

Not many visitors realize there is a historic resort ghost town located right within the national park! Located in the Elkmont area, the restored Daisytown is a must-see. Visitors can explore inside old cottages when this area was once a popular resort town. When the national park was created, residents were eventually forced to leave. Many of the remaining decaying cottages were torn down, but the park service decided to keep and restore 19 of the structures. 

5. See a “troll bridge”

Another fun area to explore in the Elkmont area is the old stone troll bridge. This bridge is located just off the Little River Trail. A few hundred feet down the path from the trailhead, keep an eye out for a gravel trail on your right. A short way down this gravel path, you will see the stone bridge on your left. The bridge is left over from the resort days and appears like something out of a fairytale. 

6. Drive Newfound Gap Road

Newfound Gap Road is the main road through the park. The road connects the towns of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. The road offers access to many popular park trails and numerous stunning mountain overlooks. Kids will also love riding through the tunnels along the route!

Don’t miss stopping at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center along the way. This visitor center has great exhibits about the history of the park. Just outside the center, a short trail leads to the Mountain Farm Museum, complete with several old farm buildings. 

7. Horseback riding

There are numerous stables in the area that offer horseback rides along trails into the national park. Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on horseback with your kids is a really unique way to create lasting memories. You’ll be able to access breathtaking vistas, meandering streams, and lush forests that you can’t from a hike or drive. Be sure to check minimum age and height requirements for trail rides if you have small children. 

8. Go fishing

Fishing is allowed in all streams at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park’s clear and sparkling streams are teeming with native trout, providing an ideal setting for young anglers to cast their lines and experience the excitement of catching fish. The park even protects one of the last wild trout populations in the eastern U.S. 

9. Visit the aquarium

In case you have a bad weather day but still want to connect to nature, check out Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in downtown Gatlinburg. While the aquarium is a little pricey, it is large and impressive, with different areas such as a shark lagoon, coral reef, tropical rainforest, and even penguins. It also has the longest underwater viewing tunnel that I have ever seen and a giant playground structure for kids to climb through. 

10. Watch a sunrise or sunset

There is nothing like watching the misty glow of the mountains at sunrise or sunset. For sunrise, try the Newfound Gap or Oconaluftee Valley Overlooks. Several overlooks along the Little River Road near the Laurel Falls trailhead also offer great sunrise views. 

A few good spots to view a sunset are the Morton Overlook (near the Morton Tunnel), Newfound Gap, or one of the overlooks along the Foothills Parkway.  If you don’t mind a short hike, Clingman’s Dome and Look Rock Tower over great views at both sunrise and sunset. 

Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park with kids

One visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and you will understand why this nature oasis is so popular. With the park located close to destination towns full of food, lodging, and entertainment options, it makes a great way to explore outside while still having creature comforts for the kids. The stunning natural beauty offers amazing overlooks, wonderful hiking options, and endless recreation options. A visit the park also offers a great lesson in history as you learn and discover about the families who once lived and vacationed within the park boundaries. 

Nearby explorations

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is absolutely amazing, but the crowds can be intense and overwhelming. However, there is another option for exploring the Appalachian Trail with kids nearby that is family-friendly and way less crowded, with spectacular vistas and stunning wildlife. If you find yourself in Southern Appalachia, you may want to consider checking out the Roan Mountain Highlands. The Roan Highlands are quite simply a gem of the American Southeast and have something for families of all abilities. We have a great post filled with favorite sections of the Appalachian Trail to hike with kids and tips for exploring the Roan Mountain Highlands.

Who is ready to fall in love with the Smoky Mountains?

About the author

Sara Lesire has been married to her high school sweetheart for 17 years, and together they have two children. Sara spent many childhood hours outside on her grandparents’ farm and strives for her kids to have similar carefree kid adventures. Based in the St. Louis area, she loves to share on her blog and social media all the scenic and fun places to explore around the St. Louis area and beyond. Hiking is the most popular activity for her whole family, followed by hitting up the best local playgrounds. Photography is also a passion of Sara’s, and she continues to be amazed at the natural beauty and wonder of God’s creation. When she is not hitting the trail, Sara works as a civil engineer.

You can find more from Sara online in the following locations:
Instagram: @midwestnomadfamily
Facebook: Midwest Nomad Family
RWMC posts: Sara Lesire

The post Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring Shenandoah National Park

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Virginia is Shenandoah Valley Park! This enchanting destination is a playground for both young and young-at-heart explorers. With its majestic mountains, tranquil rivers, and abundant wildlife, Shenandoah Valley Park offers a treasure trove of outdoor experiences that will ignite the imagination and create lasting memories for your entire family.

From exhilarating hikes along scenic trails to captivating wildlife encounters, this magnificent park is the perfect destination for families seeking to connect with nature and forge unforgettable bonds. As you step foot into Shenandoah Valley Park, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of natural wonders. Towering peaks and verdant valleys beckon explorers, offering a range of hiking trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, the park’s diverse trail network ensures there’s something for everyone. 

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Shenandoah Valley Park is a sanctuary teeming with fascinating wildlife. As you traverse the trails, keep an eye out for deer gracefully grazing in meadows, squirrels scampering through the trees, and a rich variety of bird species soaring overhead. Encourage your kids to become budding naturalists as they observe and learn about the diverse ecosystems that call this park home. It’s an opportunity to foster a love for the environment and create a lasting appreciation for the world around us.

So, pack your hiking boots, grab your binoculars, and unleash your inner adventurers as we embark on an extraordinary journey through Shenandoah Valley Park.

Best times to visit Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah is open year-round. However, indoor facilities are closed during the winter, and portions of Skyline Drive are periodically closed during inclement weather. Hikers are always welcome to hike in on foot year-round.

Late spring through early fall are the best times to visit for families. Not only is the weather more favorable, but all the facilities are open to the public during these months. If you are looking to avoid tourist crowds, it’s best to go in Spring or Fall. We have gone in April, May, and October and have found the wind chill to be a bit too much for the kids in April and October. May was perfect, so closer to summer might just be ideal for families traveling with small children.

Accommodations near Shenandoah National Park

There are a wide variety of lodging options in and around Shenandoah National Park. The lodges offer hotel-type rooms and cabins. If you want all the comforts of home, there are home rentals in nearby towns. And for families seeking a more immersive experience, Shenandoah Valley Park offers camping facilities that allow you to extend your stay and fully embrace the wilderness. 

1. Campsites

Campgrounds are open from March through November. With five campgrounds spread throughout the park, there are many camping options. Big Meadows Campground is a popular campground that is the most centrally located, providing easy access to many popular destinations such as Dark Hollow Falls, Byrd Visitor Center, and Big Meadows.  Just imagine gathering around a crackling campfire, sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and falling asleep beneath a blanket of stars. Camping in the park provides the perfect backdrop for family bonding, away from the distractions of modern life. Unplug, reconnect, and embrace the simple pleasures of togetherness.

2. Lodges

Skyland offers accommodations ranging from premium rooms with balconies to cabins. Many buildings are located along the ridge providing beautiful views of the valleys and distant mountain ranges. The Pollock Dining Room, Mountain Taproom, and a Grab ‘N Go are all dining options at Skyland. 

In addition to campsites, Big Meadows also offers cabins as well as lodge rooms. The Spottswood Dining Room, New Market Taproom, and Craft Shop are dining options located at Big Meadows. 

3. Home rental in a nearby town

There are many nearby towns outside of Shenandoah National Park. Luray is located just off Skyline Drive between Shenandoah National Park and Massanutten Mountain. It is also home to Luray Caverns, Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, and many downtown restaurants and shops. 

Things to do with kids in Shenandoah National Park

From scenic hikes along the renowned Appalachian Trail to breathtaking drives along the iconic Skyline Drive, adventure awaits you at every turn in Shenandoah National Park. Engage in birdwatching, picnicking, fishing, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature. Shenandoah National Park provides an unforgettable playground where families can create cherished memories while fostering a deep appreciation for the wonders of the great outdoors.

1. Go on a hike or visit one of the amazing overlooks

There are plenty of hiking opportunities in Shenandoah National Park. Many of these hikes will lead to dazzling waterfalls and viewpoints that overlook valleys and other distant mountains. Delight in the cascading waterfalls, explore hidden caves and witness the park’s abundant wildlife in their natural habitat. 

In addition to these hikes, Shenandoah has many overlooks that require no walking. One of our favorite overlooks is the Jewel Howell Overlook. My boys love climbing and scrambling over the large rocks while soaking in the amazing views.

2. Fly a kite at Big Meadows

Big Meadows is a large grassy area perched on top of a mountain that provides essential habitat for many local plants and animals. Visitors have the opportunity to observe wildlife, stargaze or wander through many of the trails located in this area. In addition to the activities mentioned, my family enjoys kite flying here. With its sheer vastness and frequent windy weather, it’s the perfect spot to fly a kite.

3. Visit a cavern

While there aren’t any caverns located on Skyline Drive, there are many located throughout the towns neighboring Shenandoah Valley Park. One that I’ve visited many times is Luray Caverns. 

Luray Caverns, located in Luray, is the largest cavern in Eastern America. It is open daily and offers self-guided tour pamphlets, which are filled with information about many of the chambers and formations within the caverns. These enormous chambers are filled with towering stone columns, shimmering draperies, and crystal-clear pools. One of our favorite attractions is the Great Stalacpipe Organ, where music is played using the stalactites in the cave.

4. Junior Ranger program

The Junior Ranger program is an activity-based program conducted in almost all national parks. Interested youth can earn a Junior Ranger patch while completing a series of activities in the Junior Ranger Activity Book during a park visit. 

After completing five activities and attending a Ranger program or exploring an exhibit, it’s time to find a Ranger. Rangers can be found at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Byrd Visitor Center, or the Park’s Mobile Visitor Center. After reciting the Junior Ranger pledge, the Ranger will award you with a Junior Ranger Patch.

5. Visit a visitor center

Visiting an exhibit is a great way to learn more about Shenandoah National Park’s history and ecosystem. These exhibits tell the stories of how Shenandoah was established and developed through informative and interactive displays. There are also homes that have been historically refurbished that tell the stories of the lives of people who lived at and frequented the park.

Best family hikes at Shenandoah National Park  

Shenandoah National Park offers over 500 miles of trails to hike. These hikes lead to scenic overlooks of nearby mountains and valleys, waterfalls, and basalt rock formations. There are many kid-friendly hikes, and these are our favorites:

1. Dark Hollow Falls

Dark Hollow Falls is one of the shortest waterfall hikes in the park, making it one of the more kid-friendly waterfall hikes. With a .75 mile descent downhill to a 70’ tall waterfall, it can be a bit steep but still doable with small children. I took my kids on this hike at two and five years old, and they each did relatively well. My 2-year-old did need a little carrying going up, but he did hike most of the way.

2. Stony Man

One of the easiest mountain hikes in Shenandoah, this hike offers stunning views of Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. Being 1.6 miles round trip, there’s no wonder why it’s a very popular hike. The hike is easy enough for littles to take on and rewards you with a scenic overlook at the top.

3. Bearfence Rock Scramble/Viewpoint

There are two routes that you can take to the 180-degree Bearfence Viewpoint: the rock scramble route or the direct viewpoint route. 

While the rock scramble is very fun and leads you to stunning 360-degree views, I feel that it’s more meant for children over five or six years old. The first time I did this hike with my children, they did really well throughout most of the scrambling, but we did reach a point where they were terrified to proceed further. I watched adults struggle in that particular spot as well. So while scrambling is fun, going that route may be a bit scary for some. 

The viewpoint route is ideal for small children. You can still access the beautiful 180-degree viewpoint without scrambling by taking that first right onto the Appalachian Trail during the hike. At 1.1 mile round trip, that makes this hike another great mountain hike option in Shenandoah Valley Park.

4. Hawksbill Summit

Another popular mountain hike in the park, this hike takes you up to the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park. While very steep, I did still find it to be doable with my three and six-year-olds. Offering stunning panoramic views of Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Virginia Piedmont, this 1.7-mile round-trip hike is worth a visit.

5. Limberlost 

This family-friendly and ADA-friendly trail is considered one of the easiest hikes in the park. At 1.3 miles round trip with a 130-foot elevation gain, just about anybody can participate in this hike.

6. Rose River Falls

At 4 miles long, this is my longest suggested hike. This trail takes you through a lush forest to two cascading waterfalls: Rose River Falls and Dark Hollow Falls. There’s a small stream that runs along the trails where you may find small wildlife, such as frogs and salamanders.

Since 4 miles can be a bit long for smaller children, I’m also going to suggest a shorter option for this hike. Taking the Fire Road to Dark Hollow Falls and then taking that same Fire Road back, gives you a relatively flat easy, under two-mile scenic hike. Since this option would take you straight to the bottom of Dark Hollow Falls with minimal elevation, this hike would be a better option than the previously mentioned, Dark Hollow Falls hike, if planning to visit Dark Hollow Falls. 

Exploring Shenandoah National Park with kids

A visit to Shenandoah National Park can lead to many amazing experiences. With beautiful overlooks, dazzling waterfalls, sprawling landscape, diverse ecosystems, and underground caverns, there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy! Lace up your boots, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and embark on a journey of discovery with your little adventurers by your side. This is a park that is worth visiting over and over again.

Have you ever visited Shenandoah National Park?

About the author

Crystal is a photographer who homeschools her two young boys alongside running a newborn photography business. If she’s not photographing babies, she’s out with her family photographing their adventures together. Together they enjoy hiking, exploring nearby cities, biking, camping, going to the beach, amusement parks, and, of course, gathering with friends and family. Getting out and exploring with loved ones is their favorite way to spend their days.

You can find more from Crystal online in the following locations:
Instagram: @exploringadventureland
RWMC posts: Crystal Sanchez

The post Exploring Shenandoah National Park with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring the kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

Hiking in Atlanta doesn’t just mean you have to do urban trails. There are many kid-friendly hikes that don’t feel like you are in the city at all! Many of them are in secluded neighborhoods with lush vegetation and lots of green space. This makes you feel like you are far from the city and deep in nature.

Today, I’ll be covering 7 kid-friendly hikes and trails in the Atlanta area. Be sure to add these kid-friendly hikes to your list next time you are exploring Atlanta. 

1. Sweet Water Creek (red trail) 

Sweet Water Creek is a popular state park. One of the main trails to do is the red trail. This trail starts at the visitor center and takes you down a path where you are able to walk alongside the creek the entire way. The hike can be a bit rocky in certain parts, especially as you get closer to the end. With this being an out-and-back trail, once you get to the end of the trail, you must turn around and go back toward the beginning of the trail. 

2. Sope Creek Paper Mill trail

This trail is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in all of Atlanta. There is so much history at Sope Creek, with the ruins once being the largest paper mill in the state during the Civil War. To access this trail, there are a few starting points, but the main entrance is off paper mill road.

The trail is easily accessible year-round, but even better in the summer when you can play in the shallow parts of the river. The main loop is 2.3 miles and takes you down to the ruins and access to the Chattahoochee River. Once you walk back up from the river access, you continue on the loop, which will take you around the lake and back to the main parking lot. 

3. High Falls

High Falls is another state park in the Atlanta area with great hiking. This park offers camping and a few different hiking trails. The High Falls Trail takes you over to the beautiful waterfall. This trail is a quick 1-mile loop. You can park across the street in the main parking lot and then cross over to the trailhead.

Head down the staircase and get treated to the beautiful waterfall view that is High Falls. After visiting the falls, you will continue on the trail through the wooded forest and loop back around towards the start of the trailhead. 

4. East Palisades bamboo forest 

The bamboo forest on the East Palisades trail is such a hidden gem! Many locals don’t even know that it is there. This loop is about 4 miles and is considered moderate, but it is a very kid-friendly hike. If my 3-year-old and 4-year-old can do it with no problem, yours can too! Using the AllTrails app to map your hike is helpful for this particular trail because finding the trailhead can be a little tricky.

Once you park in the parking lot, you can either walk back down the road a little to access the trailhead from that end (which is a quick way to the bamboo forest if you don’t want to do the whole loop), or access the trailhead closest to the parking lot and make the full 4 mile loop. There is a lot to see and do on this trail, and once you start walking alongside the river, you will quickly approach the hidden Bamboo forest! 

5. Vickery Creek 

Vickery Creek is a local favorite, and for good reason! This hike leads to a stunning waterfall and is a great family outing experience. The loop is 2 miles, and you will cross over a bridge and end up at the popular waterfall along the trail.

This kid-friendly hike is also great if you want to just walk up to the waterfall alone and make a day of it. Vickery Creek runs along the Chattahoochee River, and on a day after rainfall, it flows heavily and is amazing to see! 

6. Clyde Shepherd nature preserve  

Clyde Shepherd is a true hidden gem right in the city of Atlanta. It’s tucked away in a neighborhood in Decatur. This nature preserve is funded by local donations. Volunteers of the neighborhood are the ones who continue to take care of it.

This park has a few trail options. The interpretive main loop that covers most of the preserve is 1.5 miles. There is a big pond (seasonal) that you can walk past on the loop as well as another small pond closer to the beginning of the trail. There are so many unique areas along this trail that make it a super kid-friendly hike. with over 300 species of native plants and animals, your child is sure to find something to keep them engaged for quite some time on this hike. 

7. Cochran Mill (orange trail) 

Cochran Mill Park features miles of hiking trails, a playground near the parking lot, and a few beautiful waterfalls! The orange trail is easily accessible and a great kid-friendly hike option. Once you cross the street from the parking lot, you will head over the bridge. The main waterfall is immediately to the right as you cross the bridge, and the kids have a lot of fun playing in the creek under the bridge.

If you want to do the entire loop, you will head left on the trail after you pass the waterfall and continue to make that loop. Along the trail, there are a few more waterfalls to see, and some you can even walk up to. 

Best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

Atlanta is filled with so much more nature and outdoor fun than you might expect. It’s a big city, but one with a lot of amazing local green spaces, hiking trails, parks, and nature preserves.

If you are looking to get out in nature and out of the city, these trails are perfect for your next adventure! Which trail will you go on first?

Did you know about any of these hikes in Atlanta?

About the author

India is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, blogger, and travel photographer. She is also a single mom to two young boys (ages 5  & 4). India and her boys currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, where she grew up, and are always out exploring, whether that be camping, hiking, backpacking, and so much more. She loves taking road trips with her boys to new places at a moment’s notice and is grateful to be able to share this love of adventure with her kids.

You can find more from India online in the following locations:
Instagram: @ourwanderlust_life
Website: www.ourwanderlust.life

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Our first backpacking with kids experience

Here’s an idea…why don’t we take our three young kids camping deep in the woods, with just the stuff we can carry on our backs?

Well, why not?!!

My husband and I love nature, love camping, and we love a good challenge. We have always wanted to take our kids backpacking, but until recently, it seemed too daunting. Particularly with three kids (ages 5, 3 & 1).  What if we forgot something important? What if there was an emergency? What if…what if…what if.

But…what if we did it?! 

We prepped and researched as much as we could to get us to a point where we felt very comfortable taking this leap. Leveling up our outdoor adventures isn’t new to us. We started cabin camping before progressing to car camping, then primitive camping. Backpacking felt like the next logical (albeit much more challenging) step, and we couldn’t wait to give it a try! 

We checked our schedules and found we had an open weekend in March and decided to go for it! This would not only be the first backpacking trip for my daughters but for me, as well! We can do hard things together. 

Hiking to our campsite at Cuivre River State Park

Choosing a backpacking campsite

One of the first things we did when we were ready to go backpacking was start researching backpacking campsites near us. When you’re choosing a backpacking site for a family, there are several factors to consider, including safety, accessibility, and amenities. Here are some tips from our experience. 

Start close to home

We searched our state park website for sites that offered backcountry camping within an hour of us. We chose to stick a little closer to home for our first time because those are the trails and areas we’re most familiar with. Plus, if we needed to bail for any reason, we’d be relatively close to home. For those familiar with the St. Louis area, we chose Cuivre River State Park (one hour NW from St. Louis). We chose this location because we were familiar with the park, knew there was cell service if we had an emergency come up, and we were close to a city. 

Consider making reservations

Some backcountry campsites are first-come-first-served and some allow you to make reservations to reserve your location. If you’re a serious planner or backpacking during peak season, I’d recommend starting with a campsite that you can reserve so that you’re guaranteed your space. If you’re up for being spontaneous or camping in places where they’re not much of a crowd, you can be more flexible when selecting a site. The campsite we chose did not take reservations in advance, but was available when we arrived (it’s not peak camping season here yet). We were thankful the site was open! We learned to search for future backpacking sites that we are able to reserve ahead of time.

Choose a location within a doable distance

Because you have to hike (with all your gear!) to your campsite, we chose a site down a trail that was just 1.5 miles from the trailhead. It was a great distance for all of us with what we were carrying and doable for even our youngest child. We carried everything we needed, but also had extra supplies (food & water) in the van (only 1.5 miles away), just in case. 

Could we have hiked a longer trail? Totally! But, our goal was to test out our gear and the backpacking experience. We were glad we went with a shorter trail because we didn’t feel rushed at all. We could enjoy our time in the woods with the girls.

This also was a more rustic trail (limited trail markers), so it was helpful that it was shorter to locate the correct backpacking site. Before we planned our trip, we kept in mind what distance our kids could confidently hike based on prior experiences. Our family hikes normally vary between 0.5 miles to 5 miles, so we were happy to find a backcountry trail this distance that all three of our daughters could hike independently. 

Enjoying a granola breakfast around the campfire. Our girls are wearing Merrell hiking shoes from Laurie’s Shoes, which we loved for traction on the trail!

How to get your kids involved in backpacking

Getting your kids involved in backpacking can be a fun and exciting for them. Kids are natural helpers and love getting to be involved in the process. Here are some tips to help you get your kids interested in (and excited about) backpacking:

Let them make choices

Our kids helped us choose our backpacking site and how we got there. They had fun looking at the park map to find out what route we should take to get to our campsite. Once we arrived, we let them help pick the spot for our tent and where we’d set things up. Giving them choices throughout the process made them more excited about the adventure and invested in it. 

Meal plan

Our kids also helped choose our weekend meals They each brought their own hiking backpack that carried a family meal, their spork, and their water bottle. This added to their excitement, as they had more responsibility and helped our family. We usually bring a large cooler for our previous camping experiences but were not able to when backpacking, so this was a different experience. We all felt empowered by carrying everything on our backs, including our food and water. 

Packing help

We prepped our kids that we are bringing only the bare necessities, and then got them involved in the packing process. When we car camp, our kids are used to bringing toys, many baby dolls, doll clothes, picture books, etc. But for backpacking, we all agreed ahead of time that they would each be able to bring one lovey. They had fun choosing that one special item and were excited to take it on our adventures. The girls did surprisingly great throughout the trip with limited toys. It was so neat to see their imagination blossom when playing in the woods. A huge fallen tree became the Polar Express train, and a pile of leaves and sticks became a chef’s kitchen to feed their loveys. 

Starting our 1.5 mile trail to the site, sporting our Deuter backpacking packs

Hiking to the campsite

The hike to our campsite was only 1.5 miles, but it can still be challenging to keep kids entertained and moving down the trail. Here are a few tips and tricks we implement when hiking with kids to keep their spirits high and their little feet moving!  

Search

Our daughters were in charge of finding the trail markers, which is always a fun “I Spy” game. The trail markers were limited on the trail to our campsite, so it was really helpful to have a few more eyes searching! From the “I Spy” of trail markers, we also transitioned to search for animals, flowers, trees, and animal tracks.

Sing songs

Dancing and singing always seem more fun in the woods. My husband and I brought back ALLLLLLL the scout songs when we entered parenthood. Princess Pat, Boom Chicka Boom, or Alice the Camel, anyone? We also like to make up songs from what we see on a hike (nature, animals, weather, etc). Singing and dancing definitely keep us moving!

Carry ultra-light backpacking gear

I highly recommend ultra-light gear when you’re backpacking. 1.5 miles might not sound like a long distance, but heavy gear can make any distance feel grueling. As this was our first family backpacking trip, we did have to make some purchases of ultra-light items, and I was thankful for the light weight of our gear. My husband carried 45 pounds in his pack, while I carried 35 pounds in my pack. (Normally, I carry my 30lb daughter in a hiking backpack on hikes, so this wasn’t too different for me!) If you’re not used to a hiking with a heavy pack, the shorter distance and ultra-light gear can make a huge difference. 

Involving our kids in setting up our tent

Tent setup

Include your kids in the setup process

We let our girls help figure out where the best spot to set up the tent would be and got them involved in each step of the process. Do you want the tent on a slope or flat? Why do we need a tarp under the tent? All of these questions helped the girls be more invested in our tent setup. Their favorite part was snapping the tent poles together!

Organize the inside of your tent

Inside our tent, our girls were thrilled to play “Tetris” to figure out where everyone should sleep. They helped blow up our insulated sleeping pads and roll out our sleeping bags (my husband and I had sleeping bags, while our daughters wore Morrison Outdoors wearable sleeping bags). We were camping in the spring and the temperature got down to 40 degrees at night. I was a little cold at one point, but everyone else was warm enough. While we had a 4-person tent with 5 people, we were all on one side of the tent by the morning, snuggling. 

Vestibule

Our tent has a vestibule (an outer room) we could use to set things up before entering the tent. Our girls thought this was the coolest thing to have a “tent porch” and were excited to lay out our hiking shoes there. This helped to keep our gear dry, as it rained a bit throughout the night. 

Cuddling as the sun rises

Our first-time backpacking tips and takeaways

Lower your expectations

As with anything with kids, be flexible and lower your expectations! Did you lower them? Now lower them again! Don’t set yourself up for failure thinking that this will be an easy, peaceful, restful experience. Backpacking (and all camping) is work, and anytime you get kids out of their comfort zone, there will be hiccups.

My husband and I went into the trip knowing that we would probably not get much sleep, and that helped (because we didn’t). Our two older daughters slept through the night, but our youngest was very excited and had a pretty hard time sleeping. This meant she was climbing over us and all through the tent all night long. At one point she went over to her older sisters, tapped their heads, and said, “Sisters, awake?” In our previous tent camping experiences, we brought a pack n’ play for her to keep her contained and provide some familiarity. With all the space (and us!) I don’t know she knew what to do with herself! For us, lowering our expectations helped because the experience was so worth the limited sleep! 

Next time, we’ll make reservations

As I mentioned above, some backcountry campsites allow you to make reservations, and we already reserved our next campsite for our next adventure! This one will have a little longer trail (at Hawn State Park for Missourians) and a water source available, so we can filter our own water and not have to pack in so much (you go through more water than you realize). 

Keep it simple

Our biggest takeaway was just how much fun it was to unplug, live simply, and have fun. One of the most unexpected benefits of backpacking is how you realize just how simply you can live and that you really don’t need that much stuff. We could only bring the most absolute essentials on our backs, so we didn’t have the option to overpack. And it was wonderful!

Although, I will admit that I splurged and brought s’mores fixings (because it’s not really camping without s’mores, right?). I put the graham crackers in a Tupperware container so they didn’t crumble. This luxury item was totally worth the little extra weight!

Peace in the woods at night!

Making the leap to backpacking

Camping as a family is my favorite outdoor activity because it allows us to unplug and spend real quality time together, just the five of us. No technology (except the occasional phone photo), no laundry, no home projects…just special time together bonding, playing, and adventuring. 

There is something for everyone in the outdoors, whether it is a family walk in the neighborhood, hiking in the woods, or camping. If camping is something you also enjoy, but you’re unsure about taking the leap to backpacking, I highly encourage you to go for it! Start small and give it a try! The family memories are well worth it!

Have you ever gone backpacking?
Where will your family adventure together next?

About the author

Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their three daughters (ages 5, 3 & 1), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!

Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant. 

You can find more from Steph in the following locations:
Instagram: @explorestlparks
RWMC posts: Steph Hampton

The post What I Learned From My First Backpacking Trip with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring Central Europe with kids

What do you think of when you envision Central Europe? Many people automatically think of historical cities, large cathedrals, museums, and galleries. However, Europe is so much more than just city trips in crowded places.

Europe is filled with countries that all have very diverse backgrounds. It is so easy to go country-hopping across a few countries on a trip to Central Europe. You can go by train, by plane, by car, or even by bike! Each country is rich in nature, food, culture, language, and history. And because it is all so easily accessible, it makes Europe the ideal destination for your next vacation with kids.

Let’s introduce you to four countries you can combine during a two-week stay without taking the plane from one country to another: Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Each of these countries has its own distinct personality. 

Best hiking trails in Central Europe for kids

Central Europe is also home to some spectacular natural areas filled with great hiking opportunities, many of which are perfect for children. With rolling pastures, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and alpine lakes, this is a region that begs to be explored.

Central Europe’s vast network of trails offers something for every family, no matter what your hiking level or childrens’ ages. If you are seeking a unique outdoor experience, then follow along on a trip through the less touristic place in Central Western Europe. Here are a few of our favorite hikes and trails in Central Europe: 

Our family of four, known as Kids del Mundo, lives in Belgium, very central in Europe. We love exploring our country. We’ve always loved finding new places within our country and have spent years (particularly during the pandemic) exploring all that Belgium has to offer kids.

We’ll start our tour of the best hikes for kids in Central Europe here in Belgium. Next, we’ll cross borders to discover other mind-blowing trails on the west side of Central Europe. After reading this post, you will know why these Western-European countries are perfect to visit with kids.

1. Best hikes for kids in Belgium

Belgium is the fifth smallest country in the European Union. You may be most familiar with the large metropolitan cities of Brussels or Bruges, but did you know there are so many wonderful and kid-friendly nature hiking trails in Belgium?

The country of Belgium is an expert in combining outdoor adventure with art and culture. Interesting to know, Belgium has three different languages and regions:

• Flanders – Dutch
• Wallonia – French
• East Cantons – German

Not bad for such a tiny country. You can imagine the rich history Belgium has. Are you ready to be amazed by these fun places? Your kids will thank you later!

Kid-friendly art hikes in Bosland

Bosland is a multi-municipal project in the province of Limburg, Flanders, where children have the lead. With more than 5000 hectares of forests, this place is filled with wonderful hikes and kid-friendly adventures. Bosland is located in the province of Limburg, a perfect starting point for visiting other regions in Belgium. If you want to experience Limburg in a unique way, you can book a stay in the Tears Alley (Tranendreef). Sleeping in a tent hanging in the trees is a fantastic way of experiencing this magnificent area.

Butterflies in Cat Forest (Kattenbos)

The most impressive woodland of all we found is in the Kattenbos (Cat Forest). Within Cat Forest, not only will you find yourself surrounded by the most beautiful nature, but as you explore the woods, the evolution of a butterfly is shown in statues and art.

Created by environmental artist Will Beckers, kids can hike and get a step-by-step art explanation of how an egg transforms into caterpillar, then into a chrysalis, and then into a butterfly. The sculptures are not there only to admire, but to play on! All of the pieces in this interactive art installation are made for kids to climb, jump, and swing on! 

This hike is about 2.2km long, which is perfect for even the tiniest ones. Of course, the butterfly process is not the only reason why to go to Cat Forest. Further along, you will come across the windmill of Leyssen and learn more about the history of this region.

You can do several other hiking trails through the heathlands and the pine trees. Every trail is well indicated with different colors and easy to find through the amazing landscape. And if you happen to go at the end of August and the first half of September, the forest turns the color purple for the heath blooming! It’s spectacular!  

The Sahara in Belgium

In Bosland, you will also find the Lommelse Sahara, an area in Lommel, not too far from the Cat Forest. Again, environmental artist Will Beckers created sculptures for this fun kid-friendly area. This time he didn’t build sustainable metal animals, but he made constructions out of natural material, usually found in the same woods.

The highlight in the woodlands of the Sahara, is the 30-meter-high watchtower in the center of the domain. It takes 144 steps to reach the top, but it is well worth the effort! The view from top is magnificent. On a clear day, the panorama will stretch out to 25 km. This location is not a coincidence. From this point on top, the view reaches the entire area of Bosland. A unique location.

With little ones, we recommend hiking the blue trail, which is 3,1 km. On this hiking trail, kids can play on two interactive art installations close to the watchtower. Not too far from the parking lot (and hidden in the woods), the masterpieces of Will Becker are waiting to be discovered. If you have older kids, there are longer trails, such as the red trail (2 km), which received the award of Best Hiking Trail in Belgium.

Giants in De Schorre (Belgium) 

Our absolute favorite hike in Flanders is the “giants hike” of Thomas Dambo. We just love how the trolls are hidden in the forest of De Schorre in Boom (Tree), where each and every year, the famous dance festival Tomorrowland takes place. You’ve probably heard of the giants designed by Thomas Dambo. You might even have seen them in other cities and countries spread all over the world (e.g. Copenhagen, Chicago, Miami, Mandurah, and Puerto Rico). 

What is so fun about finding giants with kids? In De Schorre, seven giants are well-hidden deep within the forest, and there is no indication of where they might be. This means you will have to go in between the trees to seek them out, making it such a fun adventure for kids. Kids can look for the giants following a path, but also check in between the trees and leave the paved path.

To access one of the giants, you even have to make quite a climb! Kids (and adults) can climb on and around the giants and enjoy the most beautiful views in the forest.The first time we went, we spent quite a bit of time outside and didn’t even find all the trolls! But honestly, we didn’t need a reason to return one more time. Each and every season, this forest looks different, making it a place you can return to again and again and never get tired of exploring! 

There is also a fun barefoot trail in between the giants. And if the little ones have a bit of energy left at the end, they can also have fun on the outdoor playground while exiting the forest. De Schorre is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Central Europe and one not to miss! This adventure can be easily combined with a stop in Antwerp, making it the perfect combination of nature and history!

Waterfalls on the trail of de la Hoegne

If you are looking for the most gorgeous pristine nature, you will find it in the Belgian Ardennes. This area is filled with picturesque tiny European villages, and gorgeous rivers meandering through the lush and dense forests. This area will amaze you day after day. The hike of La Hoegne, which is the name of the river, is unique because the trail will lead you over the river via bridges and passages. 

The trail starts at the parking lot at the beginning of the promenade. Because there is no bridge to the parking lot, you have to pass through the river to park. Kids love it! Don’t worry; usually, the water isn’t too deep, and you can pass with the car.

At the start of the trail, the river is at its widest. Follow along the signs (white with blue cross), which you can’t miss. The hike is beautiful and kid-friendly. And because hiking with kids always requires snacks and food, somewhere in the middle of the trail, you will reach an open space in the forest where you can sit for a picnic. At this location, you can choose a hike of 10km or 12km. This is well indicated.

When you reach this point, it also means you’re close to the peak of the valley. It looks like you stepped into a fairytale. Our girls still talk about this hike and how beautiful it was. However, note that because of all the tiny bridges and roots popping out everywhere, it is definitely not suitable for buggies or strollers. 

A few more kid-friendly hikes in Belgium

If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Belgium, you should check:

• Hoogstraten: Wortel Colony, De Mosten & Aschputten, The Strawberry tour
• The Music Forest in Ronse
• Terhills National Park in Maasmechelen
• Hoge Venen in the so called Hoge Venen-Eifel Nature Park

2. Best hikes for kids in the Netherlands (Holland)

When you are in Belgium, you can easily hop over to the Netherlands. From different points of Belgium, you might even cross the border and back again while out exploring. The two countries are very linked and intertwined. The Netherlands are located between Denmark, Germany, and Belgium. The country’s city population density is very high which makes it the second most dense country in Europe (after Malta). However, outside of the cities, the Netherlands have beautiful wide open plains and plenty of nature to explore! The landscape of Holland (as we call the Netherlands), is just extraordinary.

Let me guide you to two of the most amazing areas in Holland…

Texel – West Frisian Islands

The West Frisian Islands (Waddeneilanden in Dutch) is a group of small islands on the North Coast of the Netherlands at the Wadden Sea. This region has been placed on the Unesco World Heritage List. Typical for the West Frisian Islands are the wide open meadows filled with wide open beaches and red lighthouses. Not only is the landscape truly remarkable, but the nutrient-rich sea attracts fish, and marine mammals and is a popular stopover for migratory birds.  The largest island of the West Frisian Islands is Texel. 

Texel is a perfect nature-filled place to spend holidays with kids. You can go island-hopping, seal-watching, bird-spotting, and hike through the diverse landscapes. The first thing that is already unique and unforgettable about this adventure is the way to Texel. With the car, you drive right onto the ferry and take it out to the island. The excitement the kids experience while making the line at the port of Den Helder is incredible.

Once you’re on the island, there are a couple of must-see attractions. One of those are the Dunes of Texel National Park. This park has a variety of nature going from pine trees to sand dunes at the beach. With such an incredible and diverse landscape, your kids will never get bored! The hiking trails for kids in the enormous dunes are superb! 

Also, be sure to be on the lookout for seals on the beaches of the island. You can spot seals on the island year-round. If you miss the seals on the beach, like us, you can also visit Ecomare, a shelter with only one mission: nurturing and caring for wounded seals. 

Biking in the Netherlands and Texel sheep

Did you know Dutch people are born on bikes? Well, not really, but it sure seems that way! Bikes are so integrated into their culture that you’ll inevitably feel the need to get on a bike when you’re in Holland. So, instead of hiking from one side of the island to the other, consider riding a bike so that you can really take in the nature around you and discover all the little villages along the way.

Texel is also known for its sheep. Yes, you have read that right…sheep! They are everywhere and beloved by the people on the island. Plan on visiting a sheep farm with your little ones while you’re there. And don’t forget the beautiful lighthouse of De Cocksdorp! It’s a classic beautiful red one that you can still visit! A stay on Texel will be one to remember!

Mast Forest (Mastbos)

North Brabant covers four national parks of the Netherlands (Loonse and Drunense Dunes, The Biesbosch, the Big Peel, and Border Park De Zoom-Kalmthoutse Heide), with a wide range of nature and biodiversity. They are all worth visiting. This region has so much nature, history, and culture. 

Close to Breda, you will find one of the most diverse woodlands in Holland. In the Mast Forest, kids can run freely, go gnome-seeking, build camps, climb trees, and so much more. When our girls were little, we introduced them to hiking via the wonderful paths in the Mast Forest, so this forest has a special place in our hearts.

A magical gnome tour takes you through the forest. For one and a half hours, your little ones will run, climb and seek! With a bit of storytelling, this will be a day never to forget. But there’s more than gnomes. You have the wooden paths through the fields, follow the river the Mark, walk next the Galder Lake, a summer hotspot for families. But you can also stop at the nature playground Bouverijen. Building camps, climbing wooden logs and climbing over the water is such a fun activity for kids. 

The Netherlands have so much more to offer, but these two spots are a great way to start exploring nature in Holland! 

More Dutch hikes

If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in the Netherlands, check out the following locations: 

• National Park the Veluwe
• Biesbosch in South-Brabant
• Utrechtse Heuvelrug
• Oranjezon in Zeeland
• Nature Monuments in Leikeven

3. Best hikes for kids in Germany

The Netherlands and Belgium border with Germany, so why not take advantage and combine all of these countries into one amazing trip?! One region we would definitely recommend that you visit with kids is the South Eifel region. Not only do you have beautiful nature and the most amazing hiking trails, but this area is so close to other amazing locations that it makes exploring easy for families. 

Destinature Dorf

When we were exploring the area, the biggest (and most pleasant) hidden gem we found was the amazing hiking trails in Ernzen. When discovered this area a bit by accident when we were planning a visit to Müllerthal in Luxembourg. Seeking an authentic stay close to nature, we booked a stay in Germany, only minutes away from the Luxembourg border, in Destinature Dorf in Ernzen. Destinature Dorf is a nature village with the most powerful mission: sustainable tourism, using only natural and sustainable materials to build sophistically designed huts and tents connecting you with nature. This recently opened Nature Village has everything we needed as a nature-loving family.

Here’s a little secret. When you stay in Destinature Dorf in Ernzen, you can access another wonder of nature, Felsenweiher. There’s a set of stairs that leads you straight to the natural rock pond. We didn’t know this on our first visit, so one more reason to go back!

Devils Canyon in Südeifel

During our stay, we discovered some of the most beautiful places we have ever seen. This area guarantees an unforgettable holiday with your kids. If you want to score points, you can start off with the Teufelsschlucht Dinosaur Park in Ernzen. Just five minutes away from Destinature Dorf, you get to this incredible park, surrounded by nature. Next to the Dinosaur Park is the entrance of one of the most beautiful hikes for kids in Germany.

When you’re in the area, make your first stop at the Visitors Centre. That is where you will get more info on the different kinds of trails. We choose the shortest one, as our kids were very little at the time. In total, the hike was 1.8 km, but it takes over 2 hours to finish. It was magical! We found ourselves in a real-life fairy tale. The beautiful colors of the falling leaves, contrasting against the bright green of the moss, were mesmerizing! The trail took us to a canyon deep down the rocks. The view at the end of the gorge is breathtaking. The girls forgot about their tiredness and ran around enjoying the beauty of the site. Definitely, the Devil’s Canyon is a must when you are in Südeifel!

More kid-friendly hikes in Germany

If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Germany, you check out the following locations:

• Schwarzwald in Germany
• German Alpes
• Fairytales Tour via Edersee
• Vineyards in the Eifel Region
• Berchtesgaden in Beieren 

4. Best hikes for kids in Luxembourg

Believe it or not, only a couple of minutes away from Devil’s Canyon (above), you will venture into another country and find the famous Müllerthal Trail in Luxembourg. This trail highlights nature in its purest form! 

Schiessentümpel Waterfall on the Müllerthal Trail 

The Schiessentümpel Waterfall on the famous Müllerthal Trail in Luxembourg had been on our hiking bucket list for years! This romantic waterfall is the hotspot of Müllerthal. At 500 m from the waterfall, you can find small parking lot. There are two ways to get to the waterfall by foot. You can follow the sidewalk, which is less adventurous. Or, you can follow the trail close to the rocks. We recommend planning your visit to the waterfall very early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. This touristy hotspot can get quite busy.

From the waterfall, you will see signs for different trails that you can take to explore the area. All of them are well indicated. The most popular trail for families with kids is trail B2. To start this trail, we recommend parking in Berdorf, close to the Tourist Centre. From there, you easily get to the first canyon. When you go along the trail, you eventually will arrive at the highest point of the trail where you have an amazing view.

Via Kalktüfquell to Schwartze Ernz

If you go the other way, it will lead you to one of the most beautiful places. From the Schiessentumpel waterfall, we followed trail W7, a hike of 10km. We didn’t finish it completely and went straight to the Kalktüfquell, a source with clear water.

From the source, you get to the beautiful decking paths of the Schwartse Ernz. Get ready for a beautiful walk between the rock formations. But don’t stop there! Next, head to the castles of Beaufort, about 15 mins from the hiking sites. There are so many treasures to visit in this area. 

If you prefer to stay in less touristic place than Müllerthall, then look into staying at the Nature Hotel Destinature in Germany. It’s only a 20-minute drive, and you will be quiet, and relaxed while connected with nature!

More Luxemburg hikes for kids

If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Luxemburg, you should check out the following hikes:

• Hallerbach Trail with the castle of Beaufort 
• Obersauer starting in Esch-sur-Sûre
• Hiking along the River of Clerve 
• Vianden at the river the Our

Hiking four European countries in one trip

We hope this post has inspired you to consider adding a few hiking trails to your next Central European vacation. Of course, you can always explore Europe in the classic way by hopping from city to city, but we highly recommend getting off the beaten path (or onto another kind of beaten path) and adding some nature to your trip! Each of these places are a bit less known and will give you an unforgettable holiday outdoors, connecting with your family and nature. 

Have you ever been hiking in Europe?

About the author

Tine is a natural-born adventurer from Belgium. She met her husband while working and living in the Dominican Republic. Nine years ago, they moved to Europe and are still exploring European grounds. Her happy place is wherever her 2 girls are, but she spices up life by discovering unknown places, planning new adventures, and going outdoors as much as possible. She loves seeing life through the eyes of her little ones, which lifted it to a completely different dimension. Their family goal is to travel the world, living a location-independent lifestyle. The family is now working on a couple of projects to make this dream happen! In the meantime, they keep on exploring, and Tine keeps on writing and inspiring other families to explore just like them. 

You can find more from Tine online in the following locations:
Instagram: @kidsdelmundo
RWMC posts: Tine Voeten
Website: www.kidsdelmundo.com

The post Best Hikes for Kids in Central Europe appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

About the Ozark Scenic Riverways

This national park site is visited by about 1.2 million visitors a year. The Ozark Scenic Riverway park protects the spring-fed and free-flowing Current and Jack’s Fork rivers as well as several springs and historic sites located near these rivers. Since the park boundaries follow along the rivers, the park boundaries are long, narrow, and spread out. 

The Ozark Scenic Riverways are a budget-friendly park to visit as there is no admission fee. The park is also open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Tips for visiting the Ozark Scenic Riverways

Since the area around the riverways is more remote, cell service can be spotty. It is recommended to download, print, or use paper maps as a backup. The majority of the park features can be found along paved highways. However, some points of interest are located along gravel roads which could be in rougher condition. 

The towns along the Current and Jacks Fork rivers in the area are small and spread out. Most of them do have gas stations and restaurants, but it’s recommended to keep the tank topped off and the cooler full of food and drinks. Most of the major attractions have picnic areas and make a great spot for a scenic lunch stop. 

As this is a Scenic Riverway, the points of interest are located along the water. Use caution with kids around the water, as the springs, in particular, are very deep and cold. 

Best time to visit the Ozark Scenic Riverways

If you wish to explore the park from the water, summer will be the best bet for visiting. Since the rivers are spring-fed, the water is cool and refreshing during the hot and humid summer days. Fall is another beautiful time, as the park is a wonderful place for great fall colors. If you visit in spring, you can enjoy the sites with mild temperatures and without the summer crowds. Winter can be a nice time to explore as well, but use caution as the roads are curvy and hilly and not a place to drive in winter weather conditions. Some of the lodging options and activities may also be closed in the off-season. 

Ozark Riverways visitor centers

One of the best first places to stop when visiting a new park is the Visitor Center. The main park headquarters Visitor Information Center is located in Van Buren, Missouri (about a 2.5 hour drive from St. Louis). This center is open year-round with park exhibits and information. A smaller information center is located at Big Spring. Alley Spring also has an information center at the Alley Spring General Store. 

Explore the Ozark Scenic Riverways by water

The Current and Jack’s Fork Rivers are known as some of the best rivers for floating in the Midwest. Due to the fact that the rivers are spring-fed, they are crystal clear and beautiful. You can also enjoy great views of rugged bluffs, deep woods, and cave openings. (Although most caves are closed to the public due to white-nose-syndrome.)

Many different outfitters are located in the area offering various options, including tubes, canoes, kayaks, and rafts. For younger kids, the canoes or rafts are great and are a safe option for all ages. Older kids and teens might enjoy the freedom of riding their own tube or kayak down the river. 

At one time, this area was known for attracting more of a party-crowd. Missouri Department of Conservation, park rangers, and local law enforcement have really cracked down on rowdy behavior on the water and gravel bars to make this area safe and family-friendly. Styrofoam coolers and glass containers are also not allowed anywhere along the rivers. 

Visit Alley Spring and mill

Alley Spring is the 7th largest spring in Missouri, pumping out 81 million gallons of water per day. The Alley Spring Mill is the most photographed spot in the Ozark Scenic Riverways, and for good reason. This stunning red mill stands tall and lovely next to the turquoise-blue spring waters. The mill was constructed in 1894 and was once part of a small community. This is a great family spot to visit, with a large parking area, restrooms, picnic areas, and a short and flat path. 

The grounds of the mill are open anytime, while the inside of the mill is open during the summer months. You can step inside to view the milling equipment and stamp your National Parks Passport book. The Alley General Store is located near the mill and offers cultural exhibits and another passport stamping station. 

The site also has a one-room schoolhouse. The doors of the schoolhouse are often open during the summer to take a peek inside and show kids what schools looked like in the past. 

If you wish to stretch your legs a bit, you can take a short 0.3-mile hike around the spring pond and stream. The path starts behind the mill, circles the spring pond, and then crosses a bridge back to the front of the mill. 

For a longer hike, consider the Alley Overlook Trail. This 1.3-mile trail is a bit more rugged. Starting behind the mill, it makes a steep climb to a birds-eye overlook of the mill and spring below. The trail levels off at the top for an easier hike before descending a set of switchbacks down to the river floodplain near the parking area. 

The Big Spring area

If you only visit one spring of the Ozark Scenic Riverways, head to the grandaddy of them all…Big Spring. Big Spring has an average daily flow of 286 million gallons, making it one of the three largest springs in the United States. Underground passages carry water from as far as 45 miles away to emerge at the spring. The spring carries dissolved limestone, which turns the water into a beautiful turquoise blue.

Located near Van Buren, Big Spring was originally established as one of Missouri’s first state parks. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived and constructed trails and stone structures. Many of these rugged structures still stand today, although the dining lodge and cabins are currently undergoing extensive renovation. When the Ozark Scenic Riverways Park was created, the state of Missouri donated the land to the National Park Service.

A great thing about Big Spring is that the view of the spring is handicap accessible. A flat path leads along the water to an overlook of the spring and a small cave opening. Another accessible trail, called the Slough Trail, starts just north of the spring. This path travels through a forest and past interpretive exhibits explaining the history and culture of the area. 

If you want a more rugged hike, consider the 1 mile Spring Branch Trail. The trailhead is found at the base of the limestone cliff from which Big Spring emerges. The path loops around the spring and follows the spring branch towards the Dining Lodge. 

The Big Spring area has several more beautiful springs, hiking trails, a campground, picnic areas, restrooms, horseback riding, and a boat launch. 

Explore Round Spring

Round Spring is another great place to visit on the Ozark Scenic Riverways. Located just north of Eminence, this area has several significant natural features, including freshwater springs. The spring can be viewed by following a short and flat path from the parking area. Like the other springs in the area, Round Spring is also a rich shade of blue. 

Another natural feature at this site is the Round Spring Cave. During the summer months, the park service offers two-hour lantern tours of the cave. The ranger-led tour of the Round Spring Cavern is somewhat strenuous. Tickets are only available for purchase on-site, with no reservations. We haven’t been able to tour this cave yet, but I have heard it is beautiful. 

The Round Spring area also has hiking trails, a campground, picnic areas, and restrooms. 

View the brilliant Blue Spring

The Ozark Scenic Riverways actually has two springs known as “Blue Spring.” Of the two, the one along the Current River is a must-see destination. Native Americans called this water “Spring of the Summer Sky” due to the vivid blue hue. At 310 feet deep, this is one of the deepest springs in the country. The Statue of Liberty would actually fit completely underwater if dropped into the spring!

This spring is a little trickier to reach compared to the others mentioned above. You must follow a long and steep dirt road for several miles off Highway 106. It is not recommended for RVs, but passenger cars should handle it fine in most weather conditions. (I have driven the road in both a car and SUV, and it was always well-graded.)

The dirt road leads to a parking area with vault restrooms. Follow the path to the left of the parking area, and it is an easy 0.25-mile walk along a dirt path to the spring. 

There is a wooden boardwalk that leads across the water for a closer look. Another path travels up the left side of the rock bluff to reach an overlook above the spring. 

Discover the unique Welch Spring and hospital

By itself, Welch Spring is just another lovely spring of the Ozark Scenic Riverways. However, this spring also has an interesting history and even mysterious ruins to view. 

Back in 1913, an Illinois doctor named Dr. Diehl actually purchased Welch Spring. He believed that the spring water and air had healing properties for those with breathing conditions or diseases such as asthma or tuberculosis. Dr Diehl decided to tap the clean air by building a hospital over the mouth of the cave where Welch Spring flowed. However, travel to this remote area was difficult. While visitors did come from the area and neighboring states, the hospital and resort were not a success and fell into ruin after the doctor’s death in 1940. 

 The spring and ruins can still be viewed today. A well-graded gravel road leads to the parking area for the Welch Spring Trail. A flat, 0.5-mile path leads along the river to a view of the spring and hospital ruins. However, you will be on the opposite side of the spring and only have a view of the hospital from a distance. 

Make a splash at Rocky Falls

If your kids are looking for a safe and fun spot to play in the water along these beautiful spring-fed rivers, head to Rocky Falls. This scenic 40′ waterfall tumbles down a set of rocky shut-ins into a clear and shallow pool below. 

The falls are a very short walk from the parking area, and there are also benches and a restroom. 

Places to stay near the Ozark Scenic Riverways

You have multiple options for lodging in the Ozark Scenic Riverways with kids. If you wish to camp, there are both established campgrounds and backcountry camping options. Many of the campgrounds are located right next to scenic sites such as Big Spring or Alley Spring. 

The two largest towns near the riverways are Van Buren and Mountain View, Missouri. Both of these towns offer hotel options. The charming small town of Eminence is centrally located to many sites and offers several motels and cabin options. 

If you wish for a more plush stay, the lodge or cabins at Echo Bluff State Park can be a great option. This state park is located just north of Eminence and offers a restaurant, lodge, cabins, campground, playground, splash pad, hiking trails, horse trails, and a scenic view of Echo Bluff and Sinking Creek. Sinking Creek is clear and shallow and perfect for kids to play. You may even be lucky enough to see the wild horses that often roam through the park. 

Why you should visit the Ozark Scenic Riverways with kids

I hope learning about the scenic springs, rivers, and historic sites of the Ozark Scenic Riverways has inspired you to make a visit to this National Park site. These backroads destinations may be less well-known than other National Parks, but the natural beauty will take your breath away. 

Have you ever been to the Ozark Scenic Riverways?

About the author

Sara Lesire has been married to her high school sweetheart for 17 years, and together they have two children. Sara spent many childhood hours outside on her grandparents’ farm and strives for her kids to have similar carefree kid adventures. Based in the St. Louis area, she loves to share on her blog and social media all the scenic and fun places to explore around the St. Louis area and beyond. Hiking is the most popular activity for her whole family, followed by hitting up the best local playgrounds. Photography is also a passion of Sara’s, and she continues to be amazed at the natural beauty and wonder of God’s creation. When she is not hitting the trail, Sara works as a civil engineer.

You can find more from Sara online in the following locations:
Instagram: @midwestnomadfamily
Facebook: Midwest Nomad Family
RWMC posts: Sara Lesire

The post Exploring the Ozark Scenic Riverways with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

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Outdoor gear for kids

We’ve all heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” And we know that quality outdoor kids’ gear will last longer and do better in extreme circumstances. But what gear is worth spending money on for your kids? What makes the most sense to invest in for the whole family? 

You certainly don’t need a garage packed with all the latest and greatest in the outdoor industry, but a few well-made key pieces will ensure an endless supply of family fun. From water bottles to day packs, sun hats to rain jackets, and everything in between, this is your ultimate list of gear for your outdoorsy kids. 

Best outdoor clothing for kids

You might be asking yourself why your kids need special clothes when going on adventures outdoors. The short answer is…they don’t (or at least not always). Your everyday outdoor trip to the park or neighborhood stroll isn’t going to require anything fancy. However, the more time you spend outdoors, the more adventurous your outings will become and the more your kids will be in the elements. And sometimes adventures call for special outdoor gear. 

Just like all our outdoor gear listed, these clothing items each have a specific purpose. The right clothing is the best way to keep your kids comfortable when adventuring outside. I always look at buying good quality outdoor clothing as an investment in our fun. The more comfortable we are outside, the longer we can play and the more time we can spend outdoors. And it’s always good to remember that just a few key pieces can keep us outside all year long.  

Best base layers (merino wool)

The first clothing items I always make sure to have on hand (for both kids and adults) are a couple of good sets of wool base layers. These pieces can be used alone on warmer days or can add a much-needed layer of comfort on those chilly winter escapades. One of our favorite brands that makes beautiful, soft layers is NUI Organics. I love their collection of soft merino wool, which comes in a variety of beautiful solid gender-neutral colors (so they can be passed down kid to kid). This company, in particular, is great because they carry layers for the entire family (adults included).

Check out our post on the Best Merino Wool Layers for Kids for a comprehensive list of the best wool brands, clothing options, and price points. 

Best outdoor shirts for kids

When it comes to what my kids wear on top, I like to keep a few quick-dry athletic shirts ready to grab, especially for those warmer months. A shirt that allows sweat to wick away from their bodies means more comfort and less complaining. Good options for athletic shirts are merino wool or synthetic materials. Most of our athletic t-shirts come from the All In Motion line at Target.

Another top layer I like to keep in our closets is a quality long-sleeve sun-shirt. A good sun-shirt means this mama knows my kids are being protected from UV rays, and I get to worry less about the last time I applied sunscreen. Our favorite sun-shirts are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Sun Hoodie, the REI Co-op Sahara Sun Hoodie, and the Veyo Kids Sun Hoodies. 

Pants/ shorts (or a combination thereof)

Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, I’ve learned that clothes that serve a dual purpose are the ones I reach for the most. And that goes for the pants and shorts that I buy my kids. My favorites are those that are great for more than one activity or are convertible. A good pair of convertible hiking pants means I don’t have to pack shorts for when my son says he’s too hot or wants to go splashing in rivers or lakes.

My favorite convertible hiking pants for kids are the ones with zippers by the ankles so that we don’t have to worry about taking off shoes during the transition. These Sahara pants from REI are great because they also have an adjustable waist. In addition to pants, it’s great to have shorts that our kids can wear hiking on the trails, and go straight to jumping right in the big blue lake. One brand that our whole family wears is the Patagonia Baggies. 

Kids’ rain gear

If your kids are anything like mine, a little rain never deters the need to get outside and play! It’s actually even better because puddle jumping is one of their greatest joys. Using both feet to generate the perfect splash can mean hours of fun. But, once they get wet and the chill starts to set in, then the adventure is over.

When picking out rain gear that will last through it all, I like to look for three things. (1) The items must be waterproof, not just water resistant. Water resistant is great for a light drizzle, but will not be able to handle a full soaking. (2) I like jackets that are breathable. This allows the child’s perspiration to wick away from their body so that they are not wet inside and out. (3) I like gear that has closures on the wrists, ankles, hood, and hems. Adjustable closures help to seal in the warmth, and keep the rain out.

For all our recommendations on rainy day kids gear, check out our full post on the Best Rain Gear for Outdoor Kids. 

Best rain jackets, pants and rain suits for kids

The REI Co-op Rainwall Jacket and Rainwall Pants are great options for a two-piece set. For the younger kids, full-body rain suits are a great choice because there is little to no worry about their underlayers getting wet when the weather turns. Our longtime favorite rain suit for everyday wet adventures has been the Oaki trail suit, but we also really love the Polarn O. Pyret Rain Shell with interior fleece-lining for colder rainy day adventures. 

Best outdoor kids rain boots 

If you’re going to spend any time outside in the rain (or live in a wet/damp place like the PNW), rainboots are essential gear for kids. Rainboots allow our children to splash around and keep their feet nice and toasty throughout the day. Over the last 22 years of purchasing boots, the Bogs Classic insulated boots continue to prove they are a wise investment. These boots truly stand up to the tough demands of kids, don’t leak, and last a long time. They’re some of the only boots we’ve been able to pass down to the next kid after wearing through a season or two. 

For a more budget-friendly option, check out Lone Cone’s classic rain boots with handles and their all-weather neoprene mud boots. All three of my kids have Lone Cone boots and love them!

Best jackets, coats, and insulating layers for kids

When those summer months start to turn cool, it’s important to keep a warmer layer close by. A good mid-layer like a fleece or puffy jacket (synthetic or down) will add just enough warmth to keep the play going well into those chilly temps. The insulating layer retains the heat your child is generating, keeping them nice and warm. One style that we have gone back to time and time again is a classic fleece from Columbia that features fun designs and bright colors that all kids are sure to love.

We also love the Performance Eco Wind Fleece from Polarn O. Pyret for a light layer that keeps the heat in and wind out. If you want something warmer that can take you into winter, a soft down jacket is nice. The Patagonia Nano Puff is a great option, as is the Polarn O. Pyret Lightweight Puffer. 

Best footwear for outdoor kids

Shoes and footwear fall into the category of outdoor gear for kids that you’ll want to have on hand for all your adventures. If your kids are anything like mine, it really doesn’t matter to them what shoes they throw on. They will still jump, run and climb all the things in any shoe they have available. And we really could let them continue that way, but what they put on their feet does make a difference when venturing outdoors. A good pair of shoes suited to the day’s activity means they stay comfortable, with their feet protected, and the day can last longer. 

Outdoor kids’ tennis shoes and kids’ hiking shoes

When it comes to shoes for outdoorsy kids, I like to purchase a pair that can be used on outdoor adventures as well as during P.E. After testing multiple brands and styles I find I reach for the same brand time after time. The Salomon Speedcross Jr. is a lightweight, breathable, quick-dry shoe that has a sole with great traction. 

Sometimes a waterproof hiking boot is a better option depending on the type of outdoor adventures your family prefers. If you’re going to hit a hiking trail, a good hiking boot offers ankle stability, a flexible sole, and good traction. If hiking boots are more your style, you can’t go wrong with one like the Merrell Greylock Waterproof Hiking Boots. 

Best water shoes for kids

A good pair of water shoes are great for summer adventures. They’re great for exploring creeks, playing in splash pads, and adventuring anywhere your kids will be in and out of water. If you’re looking for a lightweight amphibious shoe, the Vivobarefoot Kids Ultra Bloom is a fantastic option. They’re made from bloom foam which takes harmful algae blooms out of waterways, reversing the effects of water pollution. They’re also super light, bendy, and fast-drying for adventures over land and water. If you’re looking for something that does better in sand, we’ve had good luck with the Speedo Surf Knit water shoes for kids. 

Best socks for kids

Socks are another one of those items that you might be asking yourself why your kids need a “special” kind. But, just like the shoes we put on our feet, a good pair of socks can be the difference between a comfortable long walk in the woods or the need for bandaids and blister care. We often go for a good pair of wool socks that help wick sweat, provide cushion, and are long-lasting, like these hiker socks from Darn tough. 

Best  hiking gear and equipment for families

Often when we think of outdoor adventures, we think of wandering down dirt paths, watching as our kids stop to explore under rocks and roots. Getting outside and hitting the trails can be one of the best ways to spend a day with our outdoorsy kids. Whether it’s a day hike at one of our national parks or just a stroll around your local park, hiking and exploring go hand in hand. But, sometimes that can be hard to do with really little kids, or multiple kids. However, with the right hiking gear and equipment, we can enjoy our outdoor time together with them at any age. Here are some of our favorite tried-and-tested recommendations for outdoor gear for kids (and adults) that will help you get outside and down the trail with your kids easier! 

Best outdoor and off-road strollers

A good off-road stroller is a great investment for a family that loves time outdoors. An all-terrain stroller means even the littlest family member can join in the fun, and no one has to be left behind. A stroller with mountain bike suspension and a handbrake makes even the roughest terrain easier to navigate. A great option is the BOB Revolution Pro.

If you’re looking for a stroller that serves a dual-purpose as a bike trailer, the Burley Encore X is a fantastic option. It’s a double biking trailer that comes with a stroller kit (handlebar and front wheel). This makes it super easy to go from biking the trails to strolling the streets with your kiddo(s) in tow. The trailer has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children,  plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.). For more info, check out our full review of the Burley Encore X trailer. 

Feature image credit: @somerpickel

Baby and child carriers

Child carriers are also a great way to get your whole family out for a day on the trails. Once your tiniest family member is sitting up on their own, a child carrier is essential hiking gear that will keep the adventure going. Features to look for when selecting a structured child carrier are a well-padded hip belt, and shoulder straps and an adjustable torso fit so that both parents can easily use the carrier. Other features to take into account are the child safety harness system and an adjustable seat so your kid can sit comfortably no matter how long the ride is.

Our top two choices for child carriers for young kids are the Ospry Poco Plus and the Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier. You really can’t go wrong with either of these fantastic carriers – check them both out and decide which one is a better fit for you. If you have a teeny tiny newborn baby, we recommend the Ergo Baby 360. For older kids and toddlers, check out the Trail Magik toddler carrier. 

For more details on how to choose the right baby carrier for you and more recommendations, check out our full post on the Best Baby Carriers for Hiking and Outdoor Adventures. 

Best backpacks for kids

Purchasing your kid’s first backpack almost feels like a right of passage in the outdoor adventure world. Their own space to carry snacks, a new water bottle, and all the treasures they can handle. It’s true they could probably get away with a regular backpack, but one made for hiking will make trail time more enjoyable for everyone.

Good kids packs include a hip belt, chest strap, big interior storage, and a mesh pocket on the outside. Other features that can be handy are a sleeve for a hydration bladder and a whistle on the chest strap buckle. One nice day pack that fits all these criteria is the REI Tarn which comes in 12 liters for little kids and 18 liters for big kids.

First aid kit

As parents, we know accidents are bound to happen. Scrapes and bruises are just part of it all when you live an outdoor lifestyle. That’s why it’s important to keep a first aid kit on hand when venturing outside. A good wilderness first aid kit should include bandages and gauze, antibiotic ointment or wipes, sting care, and medications such as antacids, aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and allergy relief.

For a simple day hiking kit, this one from HART is great. If you’re looking for a larger kit for the whole family, check out this one from Adventure Medical Kits. In addition to carrying a kit for the family, I’m also a big proponent of teaching our kids about safety and being prepared when outdoors. One of the easiest ways to do this is to let your kids carry a simple first aid kit. This Coleman Mini First Aid Kit is great for little packs. 

For more information on first aid, check out our full posts on Hiking Safety & First Aid (which includes a list of exactly what should be in your first aid kit) and this post on Teaching First Aid to Kids. 

Best lights, lanterns, headlamps, and other illumination

A key piece of gear that every outdoor kid needs is a good source of light for when adventures last well past dark. Kids love being able to navigate their way down a darkened trail or read a beloved nighttime story in the tent before bed. There are lots of options out there for ways that kids can illuminate the night. Three of the best options are a headlamp, flashlight, or lantern. 

Headlamps: Headlamps offer that perfect hands-free option. Once placed on the head your kid can freely move about without worrying about dropping something or shining it in the right place. If you have toddlers or small children, a child-sized headlamp like the Black Diamond Wiz is a great option made for smaller heads. For school-aged kids through teens, jump up to an adjustable regular headlamp like the Petzl Tikka headlamp. 

Flashlights: Flashlights are a classic option and come in so many fun colors and sizes. A small flashlight like these EverBrite Flashlights come in multiple packs for the whole family. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, these LED tactical flashlights are bright, rechargeable, magnetic, and waterproof.

Lanterns: Another great illumination option is a lantern. The lanterns of today are not like our parents’ old oil-filled versions. Lanterns now come in all shapes and are made from a variety of materials. One style to consider is an ultra-lightweight inflatable lantern like these LuminAid lanterns. The Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is a solar lantern that can also charge your phone! No batteries required, super bright, easy to use, and totally waterproof. (Use the code RUNWILD for 10% off any product.)

Best kids’ water bottles and hydration bladders

Water is an essential item on any outdoor activity, and how you choose to let your child carry it is just as important. Maybe they want to carry their own new bottle in their pack or maybe they want to use a hydration bladder so they can drink without stopping. Either option is great, so long as it’s not too heavy or burdensome for them. Here are a few of our favorite hydration options.

Water bottles: When it comes to water bottles, there are just a couple of key things to keep in mind. A good kids-sized water bottle should be able to hold anywhere from 12 to 16 oz. Nothing too big, or it will weigh their pack down. Another thing to consider is how the bottle opens and closes. A bottle that doesn’t leak and is easy to open are always at the top of my wish list. Both the Kleen Kanteen classic and the CamelBak Eddy are great durable options that should last your child for years.

Hydration bladders: Hydration bladders are a great option for carrying water on a long hike or a day out adventuring. A hydration bladder consists of a BPA-free plastic bladder with an attached straw for easy use. You can either purchase a bladder with the attached straw that can be used with your backpack of choice or get a hydration pack, like the Camelbak Mini MULE, which is a bladder and backpack in one. 

Best camping gear for kids and families

Some of our greatest memories come from camping adventures. Family camping trips usually include bike riding around the campground, playing rounds and rounds of UNO, roasting marshmallows over a fire while looking for the big dipper. And at the end of the night, crawling into our sleeping bags and sleeping under the stars. While a lot of our camping gear can be shared among the family, there are a few key items that kids need of their very own. Here’s a short list of a few of our best recommendations for family and kid-friendly outdoor gear for kids when camping. 

Best camping tents for families

When camping, your tent is your home away from home. It’s where you’ll spend your evenings when you sleep and possibly hang out during rain or bouts of bad weather. Tents provide privacy, room to hang out, and most importantly, protection from inclement weather, cold, wind, and rain. Your tent can make or break your camping experience and needs to be accommodating for your family and your needs.

We love the North Face Wawona 6 tent. It’s a bit pricey, but really well-made and durable. It’s a good all-around 3-season tent, with 2 doors, a hybrid double-wall construction, extra interior height, large vestibule, and multiple interior storage pockets.

For our full guide on how to choose the right tent for you family and tent recommendations based on your family’s size, check out our post on the Best Tents for Families. 

Photo credit: @kristcx

Best sleeping bags for kids

Sleeping under the stars is always a great idea, unless you can’t get comfortable and stay warm. One key element to this issue is a well-fitting, cozy sleeping bag. A bag like the Kids Kelty Mistral that keeps kids toasty in temperatures below 40-degrees, is a great investment. For the smaller ones, a sleeping sack/bag made for babies, like this one from Morrison Outdoors, might be just the right fit.

Sleeping pad or cot

Every good camping sleep system also includes a sleeping mat or a cot. Mats are a great option because you can buy them a little big to last a little longer. A self-inflating sleeping pad like the REI Kindercamp is always nice because the kids can help set up their own sleeping spot. If you’re looking for something that gets your little one off the ground, or if you have multiple kids and are tight on space, check out the Kid-O-Bunk bunk bed cots.

Best kids’ camping chairs

Camp chairs might be another one of those items that you’re wondering if the kids really need their own. But, everyone loves having their own camp chair to sit in by the fire. Adult-sized chairs may be too high and large (and therefore could be dangerous) for little kids. A chair that’s just the right size like this  Coleman Kids Chair is a great option. (Although that’s not to say they still won’t steal your chair!)

Bug protection for kids

There are plenty of ways to keep the bugs at bay during a camping trip, but our family favorites are the ones that don’t stink and don’t need to be reapplied over and over. Great choices for protection are bug bands, like these BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets, or little stickers like the  Buzz Patch bug patches that you kids can apply themselves.

Camping hammock

Who doesn’t like to lay back and relax in a hammock and let the breeze gently rock you? Or, if your kids are anything like mine, a hammock can become a swing, a fort, or the perfect spot to ask mom for a gazillionth snack. Whatever way your kids prefer to make use of this classic camp item, you can’t go wrong with something like the ENO SingleNest Hammock.

Best biking gear and options for kids

One of the best activities to get families out is bike riding. Whether it’s on a paved trail near home, or off the beaten path, hopping on a bike is a great way to get outdoors, get active, and spend some quality time together as a family. If you’re interested in biking, we’ve got some great biking gear recommendations for you and your little ones.  

Best bikes for kids

A balance bike is a bike without pedals and it’s a perfect way for little kids and toddlers to learn how to ride a bike. It has most of the essential elements of a traditional bike (frame, fork, handlebars, wheels, etc.), but instead of pedaling, they push off the ground with their feet to move forward and place their feet down to stop. Since they’re in control, kids can develop their balance and coordination first, before progressing to a bike with pedals. Our top balance bike recommendation is the Woom 1. But, there’s no one size fits all and lots of things to take into consideration when choosing a balance bike. Here’s our full post on the Best Balance Bikes for Kids. 

Once your kids are ready, something like the REI Co-Op Rev Bike is a great option for bikes that have a few grown-up features but are just the right size.  

Photo credit: @kristcx

Biking trailer

If your little adventure partner isn’t ready for a bike quite yet, another great option is a bike trailer. We absolutely love the Burley Encore X bike trailer (and double-stroller), which allows families to still get out on the trail knowing the littlest one is tucked safely inside with all the necessities. The Encore X has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children, plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.).

Best bike helmets for kids

No matter where you’re riding, safety is a top priority. A bike helmet is an important piece of outdoor gear to protect their noggin. When selecting a helmet, look for those that are Mips certified, providing impact protection on all sides. The Bern Nino Helmets are certified and also come with a built-in sun visor.

Biking accessories for kids

Bike accessories are a great addition to add a little flair and function to your kids’ ride. A classic item like the Nutcase Bike Bell lets our kids add little fun and personalization to their bike; plus, it’s an added sense of safety so they can ring out as they pedal away. Another fun biking accessory is a water bottle and holder. Most kids’ bikes are too small to use the more common bottle cage, so this Po Campo Water Bottle Bag is a great option. Check out our full post with 30+ Fun Biking Accessories for Kids for more!

Photo credit: @meghavelaarphoto

Best water gear for kids

In my experience, one activity that kids of all ages love spending time on or near the water. Whether it’s at the beach, fishing along the river, exploring a creek, or jumping off the dock, kids love water! They love to get their feet wet, splash around, and play in water. No matter where you’re headed, here are a few gear recommendations that will keep the kids safe and happy when on the water.

Best sunhats for kids

When heading out to spend a day on the water, a good hat that provides protection from the sun is a must. There are lots of styles and options out there, and if your kids are like mine, they will have an opinion on what they like the most. For a full coverage hat that protects both their face and neck, you can’t go wrong with something like the Sunday Afternoons play hat or the Veyo Kids sunhat. If your kids prefer a baseball hat, you might reach for the  Outdoor Research Kids Swift cap or a snapback from Headster that both offer bright colors or cool designs.

Photo credit: @meghangarriott

Best life jackets for kids

Whether you’re kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing from a boat, a quality and well-fitting life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device)  is needed to keep kids safe when on and around water. When choosing the right life jacket for your child, make sure to pick one according to their current size and weight. This ensures it won’t slip over their head when in the water.

For babies, infants, and little ones in the 8-30lb-range, check out something like the Stohlquist Infant Jacket or the STEARNS Infant Puddle Jumper Hydroprene Life Jacket that both provide head support and full arm movement. For larger kids in the 33-55 lb rant, we like the Full Throttle Child Rapid Dry Neoprene Life Jacket. For the super sporty kids, the NRS Vista jacket looks just like mom’s, but is made especially for kids.

For a more detailed list of life jacket recommendations by size, activity, and style, check out our post on the Best Life Jackets for Kids, which includes all the info you need to pick the right life jacket for your child. 

Water shoes for kids

Atrip to play in or near the water generally means that our kids will get their feet wet. If you’re headed somewhere besides a sandy beach, a good pair of shoes that they can wear means they are less likely to hurt their feet. These Keen Newport sandals are great because they provide tow coverage and stay snuggly on their feet. If your kiddo wants a little more room in their sandal, try something like this  Teva Hurricane. 

Best sunscreen for kids

Keeping our kids’ skin safe is just as important as anything else. So having quality sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30+ is essential when we head out for a day near the water. Some sunscreens can have a lot of chemicals added and can be tough on kids’ sensitive skin, so we recommend Countersun Mineral Sunscreen from Beautycounter (comes in spray, stick, and lotion), which provides full coverage protection without harmful effects. It’s also reef-safe, which is recommended anytime you’re in wild water.

Best sunglasses for kids

Protect your children’s eyes while they’re outside playing with sunglasses. My own kids love these Babiator sunglasses that come in 2 styles (the Navigator UV and the Aviator) and a variety of colors. Frames are made from rubber, making them strong and flexible, shock and impact-resistant. Whether your child twists, bends or treads on these sunglasses, they will not break! In addition, these UV400 lenses stop all UVA and UVB rays and protect the eyes of your child against the bright sunlight. Available in baby and toddler sizes and polarization.

Best outdoors toys for kids

Whether playing in the backyard or taking your adventures on the road, it’s always nice to have a few activities around that our kids go for time and time again. There are thousands of things to do outside, but here are a few of our all-time tried-and -tested highly-recommended favorite outdoor toys, activities, and inspiration for getting outdoors.

Slackline: Slacklining is a great activity for kids because it requires concentration, balance, and core strength, plus all you need is a kit like the ZenMonkey Slackline Kit and two trees for hours of fun. If you need info on how to get started, check out this Beginner’s Guide to Slacklining with Kids. 

Kites: If you’re looking for another activity that is portable and provides endless amounts of outdoor time, a kite is a perfect solution. These Pocket Flyer Kites can even be put in a kid’s backpack to fly anywhere the wind strikes. Before you head out, be sure to read our post on Kite Flying with Kids. 

Binoculars: All explorers need a good pair of binoculars for adventuring. A good pair of high-resolution, waterproof binoculars like these Occer compact binoculars will make sure your kids don’t miss a thing (but they also won’t break the bank). 

Photo credit: @arevook

Walkie-talkies: Walkie-talkies are perhaps one of the best outdoor toys you can purchase for your kids! Not only are they fun to use and can be a catalyst for hours of imaginative play, but they are also a helpful device for keeping track of our busy independent kids. These Topsung rechargeable walkie-talkies are great because they are long-range and come in packs of two or three.

Bait nets: Whether you’re at the beach, in a creek/stream or next to a pond, kids love playing in the water and catching things. These Promar Aluminum Bait Nets are the very best bait net on the market – trust me, we’ve been through a million. Most nets have the netting on the outside of the basket, which means after a while of scraping on sand and rocks, the net wears thin and rips. This one has a metal framing (net guard) and a super durable handle, ensuring it lasts years longer than the others. A bit more expensive, but totally worth it. Perfect for scooping rocks/shells and catching minnows, crabs, crawdads, etc. 

Wagon: A classic little red RadioFlyer Wagon is a multi-purpose outdoor toy. This wagon has been a staple in my kids’ childhoods, and we use it more than we ever could have imagined. Use it for taking the kids for a walk around the block (they’ll not only love riding in it, but pulling it as well) or use it for transporting gear and equipment. The uses are endless, and it’s a ton of open-ended fun.

Best outdoor activity books for kids

We all have days when the motivation to head outside is hard to find. Even our outdoorsy kids need a bit of inspiration sometimes. Here is a list of books with fabulous activities, games, and ideas for getting everyone out the door.

• • Kids’ Outdoor Adventure Book: 448 Great Things to Do in Nature Before You Grow Up
  • 100 Days of Adventure
  • Backpack Explorer: On the Nature Trail
  • Tiny Explorers: Into the Wild
  • Campfire Stories

Best outdoor gear for kids

Phew! I think we covered nearly everything you could need to fuel your outdoor adventures for years to come! You certainly don’t need this entire list of gear, but hopefully, this will be a good starting place to find just the right gear for your outdoorsy kids. Let us know if there’s any category of items we missed! And in the meantime, here are a few more posts on gear and activities you might enjoy!

• Best Rain Gear for Kids
• Best Outdoor Toys and Activities
• 75+ Non-Toy Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy Kids
• Best Gloves & Mittens for Kids
• Fly Fishing Gear for Kids
• Best Gifts, Gear, and Experiences for Outdoorsy Moms
• Creative Toys that Inspire Outdoor Play

Printable camping gear lists for families

To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST

About the author

RyAnn is a mom of four (20, 18, 15, 6) that loves exploring her home in the Pacific Northwest. She works as a youth outdoor program instructor for the Mountaineers Org. in Washington state. RyAnn also loves getting out and adventuring with her family as much as possible. They enjoy traveling around the PNW in their converted Sprinter campervan. On her days off she generally loads up the van and hits the trails for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or climbing. RyAnn is passionate about instilling love and respect for outdoor spaces in her kids and the youth she is lucky to work with.

You can find more from RyAnn in the following locations:
Instagram: @mountain_mama4
Website: Mountain Mama
RWMC articles: RyAnn

The post Ultimate List of Outdoor Gear for Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

The Roan Mountain Highlands are the perfect southeastern mountain get away for families of all abilities.

An introduction to the Roan Mountain Highlands

Roan Mountain is located a couple of hours northeast of Smoky Mountain National Park, nestled along the North Carolina and Northeast Tennessee border. It’s part of the Unaka Mountain subrange within the Blue Ridge Mountains. The surrounding mountains of the area are blanketed by beautiful deciduous national forests (hello fall foliage!) and magical spruce-fir forests of the Cherokee and Pisgah National Forests. The area is famous for its expansive 360-degree Appalachian views and incredible wild rhododendron gardens. Every June, crowds flock to the mountain to view the rhododendron and flame azalea blooms for good reason. They’re magnificent. 

Roan Mountain has the world’s largest wild rhododendron gardens and it’s sure something to see!

Visit the Appalachian Balds

The Roan Highlands were my first introduction to Appalachian “Balds”. Aka mountain tops and ridge-lines without forests. The Roan Highlands are the longest stretch of balds in the entire Appalachian Mountain range! The Roan Balds stretch about ~ 2.5 miles across three mountains (Round, Jane, and Grassy Ridge). On clear days, hikers have continuous expansive mountain views for hours while exploring the trail.

These wide open views and minimal light pollution also make the highlands perfect for stargazing. On crisp clear nights, the Milky Way is clearly visible, and there’s no better place to watch a meteor shower.

On a clear day you can see hundreds of miles in every direction from the Roan Highlands. Not that your toddler will appreciate it. This boulder is right off the trail about half a mile up. It’s a favorite climbing spot for small children devouring snacks and adults looking for a breather. 

Hiking portions of the Appalachian Trail with kids

If one were to take a day hike with kids from Carver’s Gap parking area, they could choose the distance of the hike based on the family’s ability. The wide open expansive views start not even half a mile up the Appalachian Trail.

Oh, I guess I haven’t mentioned that little detail yet. The trail that leads across these stunning mountains is none other than the famous Appalachian Trail! 

The Appalachian Trail is a long trail that stretches nearly 2200 miles from Northern Georgia into Maine. The trail follows the Appalachian Mountainss and includes countless incredible vistas. But the Roan Highlands section is considered one of the most beautiful–especially in June when the rhododendrons and azaleas are blooming. Honestly though, I’ve been up there in all seasons and all weather; it’s a beautiful stretch any time. 

Exploring with kids isn’t always easy. But that’s not to say it isn’t doable or worth the effort. Even if they are too young to remember it—I promise you will.

Hiking with kids

My recommendation, if you and your children are able-bodied, is to park at Carver’s Gap on the Tennessee/ North Carolina state line. Directly across the street from the parking lot is the Appalachian Trail and an information board. 

Anytime you’re new to an area, you’d be wise to look over any information boards you see. Sometimes it’s just a map of the surrounding area and/or trail. But a lot of time, they have invaluable information about the hike you’re about to embark upon. For instance, there may be a posting warning of recent increased bear activity. Or, in the case of Roan Mountain, it may have warnings not to touch the endangered Grays Lily wildflower species or how you can do your part to protect and preserve the Roan Mountain Highland ecosystem.

Roan Mountain Balds sport incredible wildflowers, including these flame azaleas to trout lilies, trilliums, endangered Grays lilies, the famous rhododendrons, and dozens more!

Roan Mountain State Park

If you’re looking to get your bearings before you set out, head to the Roan Mountain State Park Visitor Center. It’s a lovely stop at the base of the mountain situated on the rambling little Doe river. My kid is a huge fan of the large water wheel at the center. I’m not sure what cascades more, the water or all her ‘why?’ questions about its inner mechanical workings.

But all jokes aside, the visitor center is a great resource where you can ask questions. They will know the shape of the trails and roads (aka, are they too muddy or snowy to traverse) and may have insight into how the weather is on top of the mountain. It is typically open from 0800-1600 EST.

For those who may not be up for backpacking, never fear. The State Park at the base of the mountain has over 100 campsites and 30 cabins available for rent.

Camping at Roan Mountain State Park

Roan Mountain State Park also offers camping in designated camp areas. There’s a $5 reservation fee for booking online, in addition to the nightly fee, which varies depending on the season. And while I can’t give exact costs, the nightly rates are quite reasonable—and lower than those we’ve paid when staying at parks out west.

The camping areas have access to walking trails lower on the mountain, wildflower viewing areas, the beautiful Doe river, and of course, some bathhouses. You also regularly see deer ambling about the fields at dawn and dusk. 

Hiking with kids is just as rewarding for kids as it is for us parents. Kids get to explore their capabilities and push their physical limits. Seeing them pride themselves in their own accomplishments is incredible.

Roan Mountain cabins

If you book early enough, you may be able to snag one of the park’s adorable little cabins. There are 30 cabins in all, but they’re spread throughout a beautiful deciduous forest, giving each one a secluded feeling. The cabins sleep between 4 and 6 people, and rates vary between $100-300 a night depending on size and season. 

All cabins are equipped with electricity and running water but not Wi-Fi.

Roan Mountain Highlands are a fantastic introduction hike for children. The section of trail up to the first bald is accessible for most children and families.

Carver’s Gap hike with kids

But back to Carver’s Gap. Cross the street and head up the trail as it passes through a field spotted with rhododendron. About a quarter mile up, you enter a Frazier fir forest that’s simply magical, especially in golden hour light and/or in fog. You hike through this forest for another quarter mile or so before you come out onto the side of Round Bald with immediate expansive views of the North Carolina Blueridge mountains, including the highest peak east of the Mississippi–Mt. Mitchell.

If your family isn’t used to hiking and the climb is starting to get to you, or if your toddler is demanding their 5th snack of the day, there’s a great snack rock right off the trail. It’s also a great little bouldering challenge for smaller kiddos. 

If you keep going up the trail to the summit of Round Bald, you’ll get your first 360-degree views. From there, you and your family can choose how far to go. If you go all the way out to Grassy Ridge and back, the total length of the hike is somewhere around 5 miles. Keep in mind this milage includes some significant elevation gains along the way.

While I wouldn’t say it’s an easy hike, it’s definitely doable for many. My three-year-old has hiked the entirety of the trail on a recent backpacking trip (though she insisted on being called Spider-Man the whole time–hey, whatever works…). 

Backpacking to Grassy Ridge was our perfect introduction trip for our toddler. Far enough out to be an adventure, but close enough to bail to the truck if things go awry.

Entry-level backpacking on the Appalachian Trail with kids

For anyone looking for a great entry-level backpacking trip for kids, you found it! This section of the Appalachian Trail was our child’s first backpacking trip when she was 9 months old. It was far enough out to give us the experience we were looking for, but close enough to the car to bail if something went awry. It was also our kid’s first backpacking trip that she hiked completely independently (hallelujah!). 

There are multiple places one could set up camp around this area. There are a couple of backpacking shelters within a few miles of Carver’s Gap parking (Roan High Knob and the Stan Murray Shelters).

Backpacking on the Roan Highlands is one of our favorite family adventures. The mountain gets top points for it’s beauty and accessibility.

Recommended camping site

My recommendation is to camp on one of the balds, if the weather forecast is favorable. If you keep a keen eye, you’ll find multiple established campsites on each bald. I truly cannot describe how beautiful and otherworldly watching the sunsets and sunrises from each of the three balds. (Unless you’re three. Then you’re too busy playing with the penlight you found in your mom’s pack to notice.) Plus, having multiple options on each bald is fantastic when hiking with kids who may or may not have lost all interest in forward progression. 

The sunsets and sunrises are 100% worth the lack of sleep that comes with sharing a tent with a toddler. Can we take a moment to peep that happy pupper? Okay, you’re welcome. Moving on. 

More family-friendly & accessible trail options

If hiking isn’t your family’s cup of tea, but you’re still out looking for a fun nature-fueled adventure with the kids, head up past Carver’s Gap to the rhododendron gardens. There’s parking galore and trails aplenty to explore.

Another of our favorite trails is the Roan High Knob trail. This leads to a beautiful deck overlook on the western side of Roan. The trail winds less than a mile through a beautiful mossy rich fir forest, that always reminds me of Middle Earth. The forest is an amazing habitat full of treasures. From mushrooms in what look like fairy gardens to salamanders. It’s truly a kid’s dream come true. 

While the first section of this trail is paved, the whole of it is not. So, I don’t recommend bringing strollers or wheelchairs on this particular trail. However, the popularity of the rhododendron gardens has led the park to develop more options for folks of all ages and abilities. Paved meandering paths wind through the gardens and fir forests. While some are wheelchair or jogging stroller accessible, others aren’t easily so in patches where roots have bumped up the asphalt. But with a bit of extra effort, you could get kids of all abilities deep into this forest wonderland. On hot days you can smell the balsam in the air as you see the sun twinkling through the canopy overhead. We’re talking core memories here, people. 

FYI, the access road up to the gardens is closed in the winter months, so check before heading out. 

The Roan mountain ecosystem is incredibly diverse and rich. Salamanders are a definite favorite of our family though. If you’d like to learn more about them check out our Salamander article!

The rhododendron gardens are designed so that visitors of all ages and abilities can get out and explore.

Special considerations when hiking the Appalachian Trail with kids

While I don’t want to scare anyone off the trail, there are special considerations to take if you are planning to day hike or backpack this section of the Appalachian trail (especially if you plan to have kids in tow). 

First off, know your and your child(ren)’s abilities. If your kid has never done a five-mile hike on even terrain, don’t expect them to be able to climb up and down three mountains. But too, don’t be frightened. This is a great hike for parents of little kids or babies still in carriers. There are sections that are pretty technical and require having the littles under three or four in a carrier. But, there are many sections all along the way that are quite mild. My kid has been crawling down them since before she could walk. 

A side note of caution to any parents hiking while wearing or carrying children. Keep in mind wearing children throws your balance and makes it more difficult to keep your footing–especially if you are wearing your child in the front and you can’t see your feet. I always recommend using hiking poles while baby wearing on the trail. They’re a quick and easy safety tool that’s saved my kid and me more than a few mishaps. 

There’s loads of opportunity for parents to stretch their legs and for kids to safely explore.

Exposure & elevation

While we are on the topic of safety, let’s point out one of the dangers brought on by what makes Roan so unique. You’re totally exposed for miles. There aren’t any trees to buffer the wind or offer shade. You have to plan for sun and wind exposure. We take sunscreen year-round. We also utilize merino wool’s sun protection year-round (if you want to read more about the crazy awesome powers of merino wool, check out this previous article).

The Roan Mountain Highlands are at a higher elevation than typical for most of us Easterners, and the weather can change on a dime. But don’t let these challenges stop you. Just make sure you prepare properly for the environment. Below are some basic hiking safety tips that can be applied to almost any situation.

If properly dressed kids will often surprise you on what they are game for, even in cold environments.

Always check the weather

I am a strong believer in “There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather” (if you haven’t read this book yet, I 100% recommend it).  However, you have to know what sort of weather you might encounter while out adventuring and hiking with your kids so that you can be prepared.

Oftentimes, regular weather apps and websites aren’t suitable sources for labile mountain-top weather. The weather on the mountain may be very different than the weather down below. My personal go-to is mountain-forecast.com. You can look up specific mountains you’ll be on rather than the nearest town, which may be 30+ miles from where you are hiking. 

Weather changes rapidly in mountain environments. It’s always safe to bring extra layers just in case.

Dress in layers

Once you know the weather you should expect, plan for the worst outcomes. For instance, with a 30% chance of rain, I’m going to bring my kid’s rain gear and an extra change of clothes in case she gets wet. (You know what, let’s be honest. My kid is three, so I always bring an extra set of clothes with me and have another in the car no matter what the forecast. If your kid is anything like mine, they’re born with an innate ability to trash clothes. But, I digress…) 

If it’s showing temperature ranges of 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit, I’m going to bring multiple layers for my kid, including an insulating layer and a windbreaker. Little kids and babies can’t regulate body temperature as well as adults. What may not be too cold for you, could very well likely be too cold for your toddler. (This is especially true if you have recently transitioned your toddler from a front carrier to a backpack carrier where they can’t rely on your body heat any longer.)

If you want to know the ins and outs of layering and my personal go-to’s (hint, hint–it’s merino wool 100% of the time) check out my merino wool article. It contains all you could ever possibly want to know, and then some, about the wonders of merino wool and layering in general. 

Merino wool is nature’s wonder fabric. It wicks moisture, protects from the sun and temperature regulates!

Bring food and plenty of fluids

For those out day-hiking, keep in mind that you’re totally exposed to the elements when on the balds. So, bring plenty of water, as it’s likely that you will dehydrate faster than typical. Plus, you never know when your kid might decide to trail run a couple of miles for no reason (or is that just my kid?). But yea, definitely bring water for each party member and even more for breastfeeding mamas–even if you only plan on going out a mile or so. 

Snacks are a must for my kid in every situation, but they become more important while hiking. I like to bring high-calorie snacks when hiking with my kiddo. Our go-to’s are typically nut butters, granola/protein bars, meats sticks, dried fruits, and crackers.

But let’s not forget the bribery tools, because heck yes, I resort to bribing my kid on the reg. My favorite bribery snacks are fun-sized packages of fruit snacks or gummies, chocolate bites, and lollipops. Word to the wise about the lollipops, though, do not give your kid a lollipop in a backpack carrier if you have hair. Trust me, just don’t. 

If ever in doubt, bring all three layers for your kids. It’s so much better to be safe than sorry.

And last but not least…leave no trace

Please make sure to follow the leave no trace principles whenever you are visiting wild spaces. Take out all your trash and try to leave the area cleaner than you found it. If we want these places to remain accessible to future generations, we have to preserve, protect, and take care of them. Little eyes are watching. 

Have you ever hiked a portion of the Appalachian Trail?

About the author

Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life within a pediatric ICU. Though she lived her life chronically critically ill, Avie was an incredibly loving and joyous child. After her death, Somer and her husband sought solace backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail. Before long, they discovered their ability to cope seemed to correspond with time spent outdoors.

When it came time to add another kiddo to the mix, bringing the baby along was never a question. In an effort to celebrate the freedom provided by healthy bodies, Somer has hiked her second-born 2k+ miles. Even so, she doesn’t believe grand adventures are necessary to reap nature’s wonder. They just as often revel in mundane evenings in their backyard. The family believes it’s prioritizing time spent outdoors that’s important.

Professionally, Somer has spent the last decade caring for veterans in an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years, she’s become a passionate advocate for the intersectional relationships of mental health, wellness, and the natural world. She truly believes there’s healing and strength to be found outdoors for those who seek it.

You can find Somer online in the following locations:
Instagram: @somerpickel
RWMC posts: Somer Pickel
Podcast episode: Overcoming Grief Outdoors

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