Canoe camping with kids

Canoe camping is a remarkable adventure that offers a unique blend of nature, exploration, and quality family time. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immersing yourselves in the serene beauty of the great outdoors can create unforgettable memories and strengthen your family bond.

In this ultimate guide to canoe camping, we will delve into the benefits of time outdoors, the essentials of planning, packing, choosing the right destinations, and some lessons learned from almost four decades of canoe country experience. So, grab your paddles, gather your gear, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of canoe camping. The rewards and memories await you just beyond the shoreline.

What is canoe camping?

Benefits of canoe camping

Canoe camping allows families to disconnect from screens and distractions, replacing them with the soothing sounds of water, the rustle of leaves, and the chorus of birdsongs. It offers a chance to slow down, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the wonders of nature together.

One of the reasons why I think canoe camping with kids is so rewarding is the opportunity it provides for hands-on learning. As you paddle along calm waters, your children can observe different species of birds, identify various plants, and even spot unique wildlife like moose and deer. It’s a chance to ignite their curiosity, foster a deep appreciation for the environment, and cultivate a sense of stewardship for the natural world.

Beyond the educational aspects, canoe camping encourages quality family time. With limited distractions, you can engage in meaningful conversations, share stories around a crackling campfire, and laugh together while navigating, or getting lost, on your route. It’s an opportunity to create a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come.

Canoe camping also offers a sense of adventure and the thrill of exploration. Discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and breathtaking landscapes that are only accessible by water. Paddling through serene lakes or gentle rivers allows you to explore nature at your own pace, stopping along the way to swim, fish, or simply bask in the tranquility of your surroundings.

Furthermore, the self-sufficiency required during a canoe camping trip can instill valuable life skills in young children. They can learn to set up camp, cook meals, and adapt to different situations, fostering independence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.

What to pack for canoe camping

Canoe camping requires careful planning and packing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Usually, you can take more (and heavier) items than you can take on a backpacking trip (as you won’t be carrying your items), but less than you can pack on a traditional car camping trip (as everything needs to fit into the canoe (along with all the people in your family). 

*Don’t forget to pack a little bit extra patience and flexibility, as unpredictability is part of the charm when embarking on canoe camping adventures with kids.

Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items to pack for your adventure:

Camping gear:

• Tent with rainfly and groundsheet
• Sleeping bags and sleeping pads
• Headlamps
• Knifes and portable camp saw
• Fishing poles and tackle

Clothing:

• Quick drying clothing (shorts, pants, t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt)
• Rain jackets, ponchos, or waterproof gear
• Sturdy hiking shoes or water sandals
• Swimsuits and quick-drying towels
• Extra wool socks and underwear

Food and cooking equipment:

• Plenty of meals and snacks (dehydrated backpacking meals work great)
• Cooking utensils, pot to boil water, and a cooking pan
• Backpacking stove
• Water filter and containers to store filtered water
• Eating utensils, plates, and cups

Safety equipment:

• First aid kit fit for your group size
• Insect repellent (lots) and sunscreen
• Life jackets that are comfortable to wear all day
• Whistle or signal mirror for emergencies
• Maps, compass, and Emergency Locator Beacor or GPS device
• Knife, saw, lighter, and waterproof matches

Personal items:

• Toiletries and biodegradable camp soap
• Prescription medications and basic over-the-counter remedies (i.e. kid and adult Tylenol)
• Personal identification and emergency contact information
• Cash or cards for emergencies
• Entertainment items for kids, such as books, toys, and games

Packing tips

Remember to pack efficiently to keep the weight manageable, especially when portaging between lakes or rivers. Distribute the load evenly between canoes and ensure easy access to frequently used items. We prefer portage packs lined with a plastic bag that are custom-made to fit in a canoe. Traditional backpacking bags also work.

When packing the canoe, you want to make sure everything stays evenly distributed and dry. Wet/dry back can be a lifesaver in the event of a tip or rain. Before setting off at your entry point, make sure your gear is securely packed and waterproof; a soggy sleeping bag at the bottom of the canoe is an experience best avoided. Even with limited gear, prioritize much space for movement and comfort in your canoe, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

If you are new to canoe camping, call an outfitter to help you with your first time. They can be a great resource even if you are not using their full guided services. 

Want to pack like the pros? Then check out our exact packing list for our Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trips. 

Where to go canoe camping with kids

Discovering the best places for family canoe camping involves seeking tranquil lakes with calm water, scenic landscapes, and ample opportunities for exploration. Choosing the right destination for your canoe camping adventure is crucial, especially when traveling as a family. When selecting a destination, consider factors such as accessibility, regulations, and the suitability of water conditions.

As a general rule of thumb, small lakes/rivers are much better if you are bringing kids than large ones. Check with local park authorities or experienced canoe camping organizations for updated information and permits. Opt for routes with a short portage if you’re venturing out with younger kids, making the journey more manageable and ensuring everyone arrives at the next waterway with smiles intact. Also, choosing routes with calm water can be helpful, especially when traveling with younger kids or novice paddlers. 

Here are some family-friendly canoe camping destinations that offer breathtaking scenery and exciting activities:

Local waterways (best for beginners):

The options below are large and beautiful destinations (think bucket list worthy), but the best place to canoe camp is the one that’s accessible to you and gets you out on the water! The options listed below are amazing, but they may not be suitable for your first canoe camping trip with the family. 

When you first start canoe camping, we recommend checking out your area’s local rivers and lakes. Here in Minnesota, we have a number of State Parks that offer canoe-in campsites that can give you a flavor of a big canoe camping trip without the commitment! Many rivers also allow for camping on banks and sandbars, which is a perfect way to start for your first trip. 

Embarking on your first canoe trip? Start with short, manageable routes, gradually building confidence and expertise for more extended adventures. Ease into canoe camping with kids. Start small your first time and make each future trip slightly longer, harder, or both!

National(ish) Parks:

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada: Known for its stunning lakes and wildlife, Algonquin offers numerous canoe routes suitable for families, including shorter trips and designated campsites.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota, USA (our favorite, and technically not a National Park): With its interconnected lakes and pristine wilderness, this area provides a serene environment for canoe camping and offers various entry points for different skill levels.

Lakeside camping:

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah, USA: This picturesque reservoir offers beautiful sandy beaches and secluded coves for camping. Kids can enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the stunning red rock formations.

Lake District, England: With its vast network of lakes and stunning landscapes, the Lake District provides an ideal setting for canoe camping. Families can paddle on Windermere, Ullswater, or Coniston Llkes, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

River adventures:

Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine, USA: This 92-mile-long waterway provides a wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife sightings. It offers calm waters and numerous camping spots along the riverbanks. This offers a similar experience to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

Dordogne River, France: The Dordogne River is perfect for family canoe camping, with its gentle currents and scenic countryside. Paddle through medieval towns, explore castles, and enjoy picnics along the riverbanks.

Buffalo National River, Arkansas: For a scenic, family-friendly canoe camping getaway, consider the serenity of Buffalo National River. The gentle currents and lush surroundings create an idyllic setting for outdoor bonding.

Coastal escapes:

Everglades National Park, Florida, USA: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Everglades by canoeing through mangrove tunnels and coastal waterways. Look out for alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species. Here’s a great post on what to expect when exploring Everglades National Park with kids. 

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden: Explore the stunning archipelago with its thousands of islands, calm waters, and cozy camping spots. Enjoy the tranquility of the Swedish nature and picturesque fishing villages.

What to do when canoe camping

Canoe camping offers a range of exciting surprises and activities to keep kids engaged and entertained. Bringing along a selection of nature-themed games and activities is always a good idea to keep the little adventurers engaged and entertained in the canoe and during downtime at the campsite. Here are some ideas to make your adventure memorable:

Nature exploration:

Wildlife spotting: Encourage kids to observe and identify birds, animals, and plant species along the shores. Keep binoculars and a field guide handy for identification. We like to study up on key species ahead of time and then try to identify them in the field. 

Nature scavenger hunt: Create a list of items found in the area you are visiting, such as different types of leaves, animal tracks, or specific rocks, and challenge the kids to find them during hikes or paddling breaks. Scavenger hunts are a great way to get little kids actively observing nature around them. 

Fishing:

Teach kids basic fishing skills, such as casting and reeling, and let them experience the excitement of landing a keeper. Here’s some info on how to get started teaching kids to fly fish. 

Campfire cooking:

Involve the kids in preparing meals over your campfire. They can help gather firewood, mix ingredients, and assemble simple recipes like foil packet meals or s’mores. Here’s a great post on getting kids involved in camp cooking. 

Storytelling and stargazing:

Share stories and legends around the campfire can create a sense of awe.  Additionally, stargazing during clear nights offers a chance to identify constellations and share stories about the cosmos. Unfortunately, we rarely do the latter, since it means our young kids would be staying up until 10PM with our late summer sunsets, but it’s a great idea for older kids. Here’s a great post on incorporating storytelling into your stargazing adventures.

Water activities:

Swimming and snorkeling: If the water conditions permit, let the kids cool off by swimming or snorkeling. Cliff jumping is also a great option if you are certain the landing zone is deep and clear of debris. 

Canoeing and kayaking games: Organize friendly races, relays, or paddling challenges to keep the kids active and engaged while on the water. Here are some great ways to get kids active on the water. 

Nature crafts:

Encourage creativity by collecting natural materials like rocks, shells, or driftwood to create crafts. Kids can make nature-inspired artwork, jewelry, or even build miniature shelters using sticks and leaves.

Our kids love charring a stick in the fire and then using it as a pencil to draw on pieces of birchbark. We bring them home and hang them in their room and they last for years!

In the great outdoors, even the simplest moments—like cooking over a campfire or stargazing from the comfort of your tent—can become the great things that shape cherished family traditions.

Canoe camping gear

The right gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable canoe camping trip with kids. Here are some essential items to consider:

Canoe and paddles:

Choose a stable and family-friendly canoe with enough space for everyone and their gear. We use a Northstar Northwind 18 kevlar canoe, which has a third bench seat in the middle where both kids sit.

Select paddles suitable for each family member’s height and strength. We use adjustable paddles to accommodate our growing kids.

Life jackets and safety gear:

Ensure each family member has a properly fitting and Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Look for jackets specifically designed for children and make sure they are comfortable enough to be worn all day long. Here’s a full post on the best life jackets for kids. 

Carry essential safety gear, such as a whistle, signal mirror, rope, GPS/Emergency Locator Beacon, etc. in your life jacket pockets or a dry bag.

Camping equipment:

Family-sized tent: Invest in a spacious tent that can comfortably accommodate all family members and has room for sleeping bags and gear. You don’t have to use an ultralight (backpacking) tent, but it will save you space and weight in your canoe. We use an REI Half-dome Trail Hut 4+ backpacking tent and love it. 

Sleeping gear: You need a lightweight (we like hydrophobic down) sleeping bag that is warm enough for any weather you might encounter. We also use inflatable sleeping pads for comfort and warmth. Nemo, Sea 2 Summit, and Big Agnes all make great ultra-light sleeping pads. 

Camp kitchen: Bring cooking utensils, pots, pans, and a portable stove for meal preparation. Less is more. We bring two bowls and often eat out of the freeze-dried meal bags. This means less weight and fewer dishes to clean!

Water containers and purification: In most cases, you will be purifying your own water on your canoe camping trip. We bring a couple of Nalgene water bottles, a gravity filter, and a 10L water bladder to hold excess purified water.

Lighting: Make sure you bring a couple of headlamps, lanterns, and/or flashlights. 

Storage and organization:

Dry bags and waterproof containers: When canoe camping with kids, you want to be sure to keep clothes, food, and important items dry by using dry bags or waterproof containers. We line our canoe packs with heavy-duty garbage bags and bring personal dry bags for use during the day. We like the Sea 2 Summit dry bags that come in a variety of sizes. 

Gear storage: Mesh bags and compression sacks are your friend! They are a great way to help keep your gear organized and help pack down big items (sleeping bags) so they fit better in your packs.

Clothing and personal items:

Choose quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for local weather conditions. Include extra layers for cooler evenings and rain gear for wet conditions or bad weather.

Pack personal items like toiletries, medications, insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to ensure comfort and protection from the elements.

What we’ve learned from canoe camping with kids

We’ve learned a lot from almost four decades of canoe country experience. Below are some practical tips and advice that we wish we’d known from the start.

Plan for rest days:

Depending on the length of your trip, consider incorporating rest days into your itinerary. This allows everyone to relax, explore the surroundings, and engage in activities at a leisurely pace. On long multi-day trips, we use a one-day on, one-day off schedule. This means we are changing campsites every other day.

Involve kids in trip planning:

Get the kids involved in the trip-planning process by allowing them to choose destinations, activities, or meals. This helps foster a sense of ownership and excitement, making them more engaged throughout the journey. It is harder for them to complain about what they are doing when it is their choice!

Optimize packing:

Evaluate your gear and assess if there are any unnecessary or duplicate items. Streamline your packing list to minimize the weight and maximize space, making portaging and setup easier. Less truly is more. 

Prioritize comfort:

Invest in quality sleeping gear, such as thicker sleeping pads or inflatable mattresses, to promote quality sleep. While we personally do not use them, comfortable camp chairs and portable tables can also make a significant difference during meal times and relaxation.

Incorporate variety into activities:

Switch things up. Mix in different activities on different days. Balance physical exertion, such as paddling or hiking, with more relaxed activities like fishing, swimming, or nature observation. However, in our experience, the kids are never the ones needing more relaxed activities. 

Embrace flexibility:

Allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate unexpected weather changes or spontaneous discoveries. This flexibility can add excitement and reduce stress during the trip. Some of our best trips are the ones that we followed our plan the least.

Teach leave no trace principles:

Educate your kids about the importance of Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out trash, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and minimizing campsite impact. Instilling these values early on promotes responsible and sustainable outdoor practices.

Above all, remember that the most important thing during your canoe camping expedition with kids is to embrace the journey, fostering a sense of wonder and shared family memories. Remember, every trip is a learning experience, so don’t worry if the first one isn’t perfect!

Canoe camping websites and resources

Thankfully, there are a ton of great resources for families looking to try canoe camping and want to learn the ropes. Here are some helpful websites and resources:

From Tent to Takeoff: (www.fromtenttotakeoff.com) This is our family blog where we document our trips and provide advice on how to make the most out of your family adventures

Paddling.com: Paddling.com offers a wealth of information on canoeing and kayaking, including trip reports, gear reviews, and destination guides. Their forums and community provide opportunities to connect with fellow paddlers and share experiences.

National Park Service (nps.gov): Visit the website of the National Park Service to explore canoeing opportunities in various national parks. Check out park-specific information, regulations, and camping options for a safe and enjoyable experience.

American Canoe Association (aca-paddler.org): The American Canoe Association is a valuable resource for paddlers of all skill levels. Their website provides safety guidelines, instructional videos, and a directory of certified instructors for those looking to enhance their canoeing skills.

Canoe Camping Club (canoecamping.club): The Canoe Camping Club is a community of canoe camping enthusiasts. Their website offers trip reports, gear recommendations, and a forum to connect with other families who share a passion for canoe camping.

Local tourism board websites: Check the official websites of local tourism boards for your desired canoe camping destinations. They often provide information on campsites, canoe rental services, maps, and local attractions.

Outdoor retailer websites: Visit outdoor retailer websites like REI (rei.com) or MEC (mec.ca) for gear recommendations, buyer’s guides, and informative articles on outdoor activities, including canoe camping.

Canoe camping with kids

Canoe camping with kids offers a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and foster a love for outdoor adventures. By following the tips and insights shared in this ultimate guide, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Safe travels and happy canoe camping!

About the author

Anthony Quill is a Minnesota dad and blogger who loves experiencing epic adventures with his wife and two kids. He is Twin Cities-based but globally bound, traveling with his family everywhere from Minnesota’s North Shore to Morocco, Spain, and Italy. No matter the distance, he always returns to his roots on the North Shore, and in particular the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Learn more about his family’s adventures on their blog at From Tent To Takeoff, on Instagram at @fromtenttotakeoff, or on Facebook at @fromtenttotakeoff. 

The post The Ultimate Guide to Canoe Camping with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*Some experiences in this post were sponsored by Pursuit for review purposes. All opinions expressed belong to the author.

Exploring Banff with kids

Chances are you’ve probably heard people absolutely rave about Banff. But, why? What makes Banff so great for kids?

Banff has so much to offer you can easily tailor your trip to meet the needs of your family. Banff is not only a haven for nature lovers and adventure travelers but also a wonderful destination for families seeking unforgettable experiences. Its unparalleled beauty lies in the juxtaposition of snow-capped peaks against crystal-clear bright blue glacial lakes – visually, it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring. Banff’s array of outdoor activities ranges from world-class hiking trails and exhilarating wildlife encounters to pristine skiing slopes in the winter months.

You can stay in the city of Banff (within the national park) for a more comfortable experience with a wide range of lodging, restaurants, and shopping. Plus, Banff has excellent public transportation, which takes some of the stress out of navigating a new place with your kids in tow. Or, check out more remote adventures in Banff, from campgrounds to cabins to backpacking. 

Every time we visit Banff National Park we learn something and experience something new. Let us share our experiences to make your next trip to Banff National Park with your family extra memorable.

About Banff

Banff National Park, established in 1885, stands as Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it encompasses 6,641 square kilometers of awe-inspiring landscapes, including rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. The park was created to preserve the stunning natural beauty and promote outdoor recreation. Banff remains a testament to this commitment, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive network of hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife observation, and winter sports adventures.

What sets Banff apart is not only its stunning vistas but also the immersive experiences it offers, allowing visitors to forge a profound connection with the untamed wilderness. Here, the untethered spirit of adventure meets the serenity of nature, making Banff an extraordinary and unparalleled destination for those who yearn to explore the great outdoors.

Getting to Banff

Unless you’re close enough to road trip to Banff, most people fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC). From here, it’s easiest to rent a car to get around. However you can purchase seats on charter buses that leave directly from the terminal and will drop you right at your hotel in Banff. Banff has an excellent public bus system (more on this later), which makes it very possible not to rent a car if you plan to only spend time in Banff during your visit to the Canadian Rockies.

If you do rent a car (easy to do at the airport), and need to burn off some energy after a long flight, head to the Bow River. You can choose to spend a few hours exploring the Calgary Zoo or take a walk along the Bow River Pathway, which stretches 48 km around the city.

The drive from Calgary to Banff is easy to navigate and entertaining, as the plains transition into towering rocky mountains before your eyes. Expect it to take 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic and if you need to make a pit stop.

PC: Sarah Boles
Bow River Pathway downtown is a great way to get exercise after a long flight to Calgary before driving to Banff.

Best Banff attractions for kids

Like most visitors, an opportunity to experience Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is what convinced us to plan our first trip to the Canadian Rockies. We were very pleasantly surprised to find out that a wide variety of activities exist even just within the city of Banff. As a result, we can visit Banff every year and try out new activities, restaurants, and hikes, without getting bored.

If this is your first visit to Banff, or you only plan to visit once, here are a few of our bucket list family adventures.

Banff Gondola

Riding a gondola in the Canadian Rockies is one of those iconic experiences that everyone should have. The Banff Gondola does not disappoint! It takes you on an eight-minute ride up the side of Sulphur Mountain to a discovery center. Here, you can head outside to explore the boardwalk to the summit of Sanson’s Peak and the Cosmic Ray Station. During the day views are incredible – they are not kidding when they claim you can see six different mountain ranges.

I suggest heading up an hour before sunset to watch the transition from day to night fall over the river valley. The discovery center has a delicious restaurant – Sky Bistro, which is not the most kid friendly place, but a must dine for adults if you have a kid-free meal. However, there is a coffee shop with snacks, and the exhibits are great for kids. There’s even an app you can download to guide your kids through the center called “Agents of Discovery”.

You do not need to reserve a gondola ride back down, so you can stay as long as your kids are still entertained. Just make sure to ask when the last gondola is scheduled to head down that evening, as it changes depending on the time of year.

PC: Sarah Boles
Ride the Banff Gondola with your kids for epic views of the Bow River Valley and beyond.

PC: Sarah Boles
Kids love to explore the boardwalk at the top of the Banff Gondola.

Boat rentals with kids

We love how the Banff Townsite is built around the Bow River. You can explore its banks, but we prefer to get up close and personal and see the city from the water. I highly recommend renting a watercraft from the Banff Canoe Club. Their location is easy to access whether we stay in town or further out, and we have options on where we paddle.

The Banff Canoe Club’s boat launch sits on a quiet part of the river, where you can easily head around the bend through the main stretch of town for a shorter, yet entertaining paddle. If you’re looking for a longer adventure, you can make your way out to the Vermillion Lakes and back in a few hours. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, they deal with all experience levels well, and they have reasonable prices for rentals – exactly what to look for in a business when paddling with kids on vacation.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Banff Canoe Club rents canoes and kayaks on the Bow River near downtown Banff.

PC: Sarah Boles
A family canoes with their daughter for the first time on the Bow River in Banff.

Best kid-friendly hikes in Banff

Being a national park, Banff has a huge variety of trails for all levels of hikers. You can find everything from extremely remote backpacking trails to paved trails in town. It can be easy to forget you are out in the wild when hiking near town; always be bear aware. Certain hikes require bear spray and groups of four or more hikers, depending on the season.

Here are a few recommendations for shorter hiking adventures with your family.

Tunnel Mountain hike with kids

Tunnel Mountain is an iconic Banff hike in part because its trailhead is located downtown. It’s a half mile walk east from Banff Avenue to the trailhead at the lower parking area. From there, the trail winds upward through the forest, offering views of downtown Banff and the surrounding mountains as you climb. Round trip the hike clocks in at just under three miles with under 1,000 feet elevation gain. For a summit hike, this trail is very kid-friendly, even for younger walkers.

PC: Sarah Boles
Head to Tunnel Mountain for a great, kid-friendly hike in downtown Banff.

Bow River Falls hike with kids

For a mostly flat hike near downtown, take the Bow River Trail to Bow River Falls. The trail follows the river through the woods along the river. It’s dirt most of the way, with wooden stairs built into the path as you get closer to the falls. The trail has lots of social trails that lead you to benches and clearings along the river, so you need to keep a close eye on young hikers. However, the trail itself is far enough from the river banks that you shouldn’t have an issue catching up with a young one who takes off on their own path.

It’s very common to spot elk on or near the trail, especially during the morning. Make sure to review wildlife safety with your kids before setting out.

To get to the Bow River Trail from downtown you can walk along the trail on either side of the Bow River. We like to cross the river on the pedestrian bridge closest to the falls, because it has a rainbow painted on it. The falls are best enjoyed from the trail along the southwest side of the river.

Past the base of the falls you can interact more with the river itself. There’s space in calmer water to dip your toes in (it’s ice cold by the way), and see who can make the biggest splash or skip their rock the farthest.

We love this hike because it can take an hour or three, depending on how much exploring we do along the river. It’s also a great picnic hike with lots of spots to stop and enjoy a bite. Most importantly, it’s pretty impossible to get lost on this trail. The Banff Townsite does an excellent job with signage, making it easy to navigate your way back, even if you get distracted and stray from the river trail.

This is our go to hike if the weather is less than ideal, someone doesn’t feel well, or wildfire smoke is an issue.

PC: Sarah Boles
Kids love to cross the Bow River on the rainbow pedestrian bridge in Banff.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Bow River Trail has lots of fun spots to stop along the trail. They’re great to rest short legs or to have a picnic with your kids.

The area at the base of Bow River Falls is a great place to let your kids explore the river in much calmer waters.

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake with kids

And, of course, there’s those world-famous natural glacial lakes located in Banff National Park that you hear so much about – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. There’s a ton to do near the city of Banff, but if you cannot resist experiencing Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in real life, here’s what you need to know.

PC: Wendy Cox
You can make your visit to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff extra memorable by renting a canoe with your kids.

Getting to Lake Louise – public transportation

To get to Lake Louise, you can reserve a seat on the Roam Transit bus to the Lake Louise Lakeshore so that you don’t have to worry about driving or parking. Tickets for children 12 and under are free, but they still need a ticket to reserve their seat. One-way tickets to Lake Louise from downtown Banff cost $10 for adults. You can purchase a day pass for $25.

I highly recommend taking public transportation when you’re visiting Banff. It’s convenient, easy, and takes the guesswork out of things. The only drawback is that you have to stick to a schedule. Because of this, I recommend getting a later reservation. If your family is finished earlier, then you can get in line for an earlier bus, and if they have room, they will let you on. 

Year-round, you can book a seat on the 8x route, which leaves from the Roam Transport Centre in front of Banff High School. During the summer, on the weekends, the 8s route also runs from downtown Banff along the Bow Parkway, a more scenic route. If you are not staying downtown Banff, you can park your car for free at the Banff Train Station and walk to the bus stop.

PC: Sarah Boles The Roam Transit public bus system is the easiest way to get from Banff to Lake Louise with your kids.

Getting to Lake Louise – driving your family

You can also choose to drive your family to Lake Louise. If you do this, during peak season (mid-May through mid-October), you will need to make a Parks Canada account and reserve a shuttle to access Lake Louise. In 2023, they implemented a bus system to reduce crowding. You will park at a park n’ ride near the Trans Canada Highway and take the shuttle.

The online shuttle reservation system is a bit frustrating, so mentally prepare yourself for this. Also, 40% of tickets are released in the spring. Don’t worry that everything is sold out, though; they release the remaining 60% of tickets at 8 a.m. two days prior, so set your alarm for 7:55 a.m. to snag up the seats you need. But, do yourself a favor – create your Parks Canada account ahead of time, not in those precious minutes before the remaining tickets are released (you can thank us later).

Exploring Lake Louise with kids

Before you start planning your Lake Louise adventure, be honest with yourself and set some realistic expectations – it will be crowded. People come from around the world to visit the Canadian Rockies, and this is the iconic spot that has drawn them to the region. Pack your patience and your snacks.

You can try to schedule your visit earlier in the morning if that works with your family, but keep in mind people flock here to photograph the gorgeous glacial blue waters at sunrise, sunset, and every time in between. As you walk the shore looking for your postcard-perfect view, one great thing is there will always be someone to take a family photo for you.

If your family likes to hike, we highly recommend moving on to Moraine Lake to create some distance between your family and the crowds.

PC: Sarah Boles
It’s hard to crop out the thousands of other people at Lake Louise in Banff to capture the perfect family photo with your kids, but it’s possible.

Getting to Moraine Lake with kids

Starting in 2023, experiencing Moraine Lake requires more planning. First of all, the road is closed to all vehicles from mid-October through June (weather dependent) due to avalanches. Over the summer, a Parks Canada shuttle connector bus runs from Lake Louise Lakeshore to Moraine Lake. You need to reserve your pass online ahead of time. Just like the Parks Canada buses from the Park ‘n’ Ride, they release 40% of the seats in the spring, and the remaining 60% become available online at 8 am. two days prior.

If you cannot find seats on the Parks Canada shuttle, you can look into booking a shuttle with a private bus company. This is also how you can reach Moraine Lake if you want to arrive before sunrise or stay past 6 pm. (when the final Parks Canada shuttle leaves for Lake Louise).

PC: Sarah Boles
Pack your patience! While very well organized, the shuttle system for visiting Moraine Lake in Banff requires passes purchased ahead of time, and waiting in line, which can be stressful with your kids in tow.

Exploring Moraine Lake with kids

Moraine Lake is a whole different scene than Lake Louise (thankfully). The bus will drop you off a very short walk from the shore. From here, you can head right for a walk along the lakeshore. It’s a dirt trail with tree roots – stroller friendly (although a bit bumpy), kid friendly, and there are many places to access the water (again, it’s ice cold). If you have an hour or less, this is how to experience the lake with your kids.

You can also rent canoes to paddle Moraine Lake. The lakeshore trail will lead you to the Lake Lodge, which rents canoes from its dock. However, this is not one of those spur-of-the-moment decisions. Rentals are first come, first served, which means you may have to wait (hard with kids), or if you come too late in the day, you will be out of luck. Also, since only one company has the right to rent boats on the lake, the cost is … astronomical. (As in over $100 U.S. dollars an hour – ouch, right!)

This is one of those bucket-list experiences that you need to budget for and decide if this is how you want to experience this world-famous lake. If you do it, you will not be disappointed. We just want to make sure you know that hiking around the lake offers amazing views as well, so if your kids aren’t fans of hanging out in the canoe or won’t help paddle, your trip to Moraine Lake will still be fantastically memorable.

PC: Sarah Boles
Rent a canoe to paddle Moraine Lake in Banff with your kids from the Moraine Lake Resort.

Best Moraine Lake hikes with kids

If you have more time, there are some excellent hiking options in the Moraine Lake area for families. From the parking lot, head left on the trail when you near the lakeshore. You will join the crowds by climbing up the Rockpile, a rocky outcropping along the lakeshore with epic views of the lake.

Depending on the crowds, you may be able to squeeze this adventure into an hour, but 1.5 hours will allow you time to take in the views, arrange photos without other tourists, and not have to worry about weaving through the crowds with kids to reach the shuttle bus.

Larch Valley

One of the best hikes from Moraine Lake is to Larch Valley. Of course, the larch trees light up in fall, making it the best time to make this hike. But you will find this hike enjoyable anytime, and much less crowded than hanging around the lakeshore. This takes you to more remote areas, which means you should bring bear spray and stay together on trail.

Take the lakeshore trail to find the Larch Valley trailhead just past the Moraine Lake Lodge. After the first kilometer (a bit over half a mile), the trail becomes less groomed, and you will begin a series of steeper switchbacks. It’s still very doable for kids, but use this as a good place to stop for a drink and check-in. If anyone is not in good spirits, head back down and explore more of the lakeshore. If not, continue on as the trail leads through the woods up the mountainside. You will enjoy views of the lake as well as wildflowers during the summer, and of course, the largest concentration of larch trees will change from green to lemon-lime to brilliant gold as fall arrives.

Consolation Lakes

We also love hiking to Consolation Lakes from Moraine Lake. Once you check out the Rockpile, head back down the stairs to find the trailhead for Consolation Lakes Trail. You will travel through the forest on a relatively easy path – not a lot of elevation gain here. You can go as far as the first alpine lake, if you want, which makes the trail a bit over 3.5 miles round trip. The best part about this trail – even though it’s easy and gorgeous, not a lot of people take it. Just remember your bear spray, like any trail in the Moraine Lake area.

PC: Tine Voeten
The Lakeshore Trail at Moraine Lake in Banff has lots of spots to rest tired legs, as well as to dip your toes in the clear cold waters.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Rockpile is a very popular and easily accessible place to take photos of Moraine Lake in Banff. Continue on this trail to hike toward Consolation Lakes for a quieter, less crowded experience.

PC: Sarah Boles
To distance yourself from the crowds, branch off from the lakeshore trail at Moraine Lake and head up the Larch Valley Trail. This kid-friendly trail leads you to the highest concentration of larch trees in all of Banff, which turn golden at the end of September each year.

Where to stay in Banff with kids

Banff has so many housing options for your stay; there’s literally something perfect for every family. We have found the most important thing to keep in mind when looking at housing there is that we don’t actually spend much time in our hotel room! There’s just so much to do! All we really need is a solid basecamp to rest our heads.

Elk + Avenue Hotel lofts great for families

With that in mind, Elk + Avenue is a favorite of ours thanks to it being located directly across the street from the Roam Transit hub. This simplifies travel for us, which is important. This hotel is located in the middle of everything, including our favorite souvenir shop and restaurants. It’s also a short walk to the river, to the Tunnel Mountain trailhead for hiking, and to the elementary school when we need to burn off some energy on the playground.

We also like Elk + Avenue because they have loft rooms. Something about high ceilings just makes it feel like we have more space when we travel with our kids. The lofted rooms also help create separation between the sleeping area and the space to hang out, which feels more like home.

Elk + Avenue has tons of comfy social spaces on the main floor of the hotel that help us never feel cooped up in our hotel room when we need downtime. These come in handy at nap time, because they allow us to divide and conquer. One adult can head back to our room with our nappers, while another can take the older kiddos who just need some quiet time in the lobby to play board games they have on hand, or cuddle up by the fireplace and read books/play on their devices.

PC: Sarah Boles
Elk + Avenue hotel in Banff has tons of comfortable spaces to relax when your kids need downtime.

PC: Sarah Boles
The loft rooms at Elk + Avenue give us enough space to unwind when we need to relax after a day of adventuring around Banff as a family.

Kids love the rooftop hot tubs in Banff

Two other places stick out as awesome family hotels in Banff: the Mount Royale and the Fairmont Banff Springs. Mount Royale sits a few blocks closer to the Bow River, down Banff Avenue from Elk + Avenue. Besides the great location, we love Mount Royale because it has two rooftop hot tubs! From the rooftop, you have uninterrupted views of everything from Mount Rundle to the shops along Banff Ave to Cascade Mountain. Our favorite upscale restaurant in Banff – Brazen – is located in this hotel as well.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Mount Royale hotel is a total package for families. Not only is it in the middle of all the action in Banff, it has a rooftop hot tub and delicious restaurant.

PC: Sarah Boles
Families love to hang out on the rooftop at the Mount Royale hotel in Banff. There are two hot tubs and an indoor and outdoor lounge space. The views are epic day and night.

Kids at the Castle in Banff

The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel sits on the hillside, towering over the Bow River. It’s an iconic place to stay in Banff, for good reason. It’s off the main drag in town, making it quieter, and its position high on the hillside offers unique views of the mountains and river valley.

We like the Fairmont because of its kid programming, “Kids @ the Castle.” They host activities for ages 3-12 (must be potty-trained), everything from float trips to tennis lessons to hikes. The Fairmont has plenty of adult things to do while your kids play, including a golf course and a spa. Even if you don’t stay there, you’ll get a great view of the Fairmont if you hike the Bow River Trail to Bow River Falls.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Fairmont Banff Springs is a fantastic hotel in Banff, especially for families.

Where to eat in Banff with kids

Banff is a melting pot of amazing cuisine. You will find delicious options for any type of food, from Italian to Indian to Greek. Plus, Alberta is known for its high quality beef production, making it easy to find any delicious beef and potatoes style meal of your choosing here.

Our favorite upscale restaurant in town is Brazen, located at the Mount Royale Hotel on Banff Avenue. Honestly, if it were in the budget we would eat every meal here, and thanks to the variety and unique offerings, we could do so and not get bored.

If you head to Brazen for brunch, we highly recommend the avocado toast. For dinner, have everyone order something different and then share. Make sure someone orders the Ginger Beef, the kids (and adults) will love the fiery presentation that goes along with it as it’s served.

We love to eat a meal here with our family because the menu (which changes seasonally) always features something new to introduce our kids to, from the ramen duck eggs (our favorite) to the swordfish to the bison skewers. For picky eaters, you can’t go wrong with the kid’s hamburger meal, which comes with a side of tater tots and an ice cream cookie sandwich.

You don’t have to go far to find a good coffee shop in Banff either. We haven’t found one we don’t like, but we keep going back to Evelyn’s Coffee Bar, centrally located on Banff Avenue. Everyone loves their food as well. From pastries to breakfast burritos, we haven’t tried anything that hasn’t been completely devoured.

Banff Avenue has plenty of ice cream and candy options as well, if you choose not to have dessert at the restaurant. 

PC: Sarah Boles
If you only take one piece of our advice, head over to Brazen for a meal with your family. They specialize in unique, sharable plates. The ginger beef comes with a fiery presentation your kids will love.

PC: Sarah Boles
Brazen has a super unique menu that changes seasonally. And while it’s a great opportunity to introduce your kids to new dishes, they will appreciate that all kid’s meals come with an ice cream cookie.

PC: Sarah Boles
Banff Avenue alone has tons of ice cream and candy shops to treat your kids while vacationing in Banff.

Where to shop in Banff with kids

We are guilty of loving to purchase souvenirs on our trips, especially if we visit somewhere very unique. Banff Avenue is lined with shopping options, from big outdoor brands to a range of souvenir shops. We discovered Big Bear Trading Co. on our first visit and now that’s the only place we stop. The selection is ample, prices are fair, and most importantly, the quality is high. We haven’t needed to replace our Banff apparel from here because they have stood the test of time.

PC: Sarah Boles
We head straight to Big Bear Trading Co. for all our souvenirs. It’s located on Banff Avenue not far from the Roam Transit Hub.

Transportation around Banff with kids

Banff has public transportation figured out. The Roam Transit bus system goes everywhere you need to be. You can take it around town as well as out to more remote parts of the park, including Lake Louise. In fact, if you present your Banff Gondola ticket, the Roam bus will take you back to town for free.

Even if you have a car with you, you may opt to take the Roam bus to get around. This will relieve the stress of navigating around an unfamiliar place. You also won’t have to worry about vehicle and pedestrian traffic, parking, and abiding by the very low (and well-enforced) speed limits in town.

PC: Sarah Boles
Taking the Roam bus everywhere makes getting around Banff so much easier as a family. Plus, the main bus stop is located across the street from our favorite place to stay, Elk + Avenue hotel.

What to skip when you visit Banff with kids

If you need help narrowing down the long list of activities you made, let us share a few tips.

The Lake Minnewanka boat tour in Banff is gorgeous. We highly recommend it for adults – they even have a booze cruise with local craft beers available – but it’s not the greatest for little kids (six and under). It may feel tempting to take the entire family on the Junior Cruise, as it’s shorter, and kids under 5 ride free. But, it’s still an hour long, and there’s no bathroom on the boat (a huge red flag as a parent).

If you have recently potty trained kiddos, even up to age 5, we recommend skipping this. While the Junior Cruise is very interactive, you still sit in your seats for most of the tour, with up to eight people permitted to go outside on the back of the boat at a time. Even when you do get up to move around and go outside, it can be hard to balance for little legs.

However, the Junior Cruise is perfect for kids ages 6-12, so if you don’t have littles with you, by all means, check it out. If you do have littles, we recommend using the funds you would have spent on the boat cruise to take everyone up the Banff Gondola, where there’s plenty of room to explore atop the mountain, food, and clean bathrooms.

Some may disagree, but I have to say, it’s ok to skip Lake Louise and Moraine Lake if you have your kids with you. Honestly, there’s so much more to do in Banff, that dealing with thousands of people all trying to capture a postcard image of themselves with this lake makes all the logistics not so worth it – whether you have your kids with you or not. Unless you just have to experience Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in real life (which we understand as well!), I suggest skipping it, especially if you visit during July and August. For reference, we have only visited the lakes in mid-May and early September for this exact reason. If we go any other time of year, we skip it. And even during those “off-season” times, it was still way too crowded for us to really enjoy ourselves.

PC: Sarah Boles
The boat cruises at Lake Minnewanka are a great way to see the glacial waters and rocky peaks of Banff National Park. However, we recommend skipping this if you have younger kids as there are no bathrooms on the boats.

PC: Sarah Boles
A tour guide explains the legend surrounding the city at the bottom of Lake Minnewanka during a boat cruise. We recommend these interactive cruises for school age kids and adults. 

Best time to visit Banff with kids

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your vacation to Banff National Park.

• It snows a lot in the Canadian Rockies! If you do not want snow involved in your vacation, stick to the main tourist season, which runs from mid-May through mid-October.
• During peak season, Banff Avenue closes to vehicle traffic to allow tourists more space to move. Restaurants set up outdoor seating on the road to accommodate the influx of visitors as well. If you’re driving, plan accordingly. 
• The road to Moraine Lake is only open June through October (weather permitting).
• Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the other glacial lakes in the area reach their peak turquoise color in June.
• Larch season, or peak fall colors, occur in the few weeks between the end of September and mid October. Keep in mind, your chance for snow begins around this time as well in the higher elevations.
• An increasingly bigger concern in Banff National Park is wildfires. It’s not just the worry about wildfires causing destruction in the area. The smoke from wildfires farther north in Alberta travels down and can quickly transform your expansive views of the Rockies to nothing but an orange glow. This can be an issue at any time during the main tourism season, unfortunately.

PC: Wendy Cox
Banff has so many perfect hiking trails for families you can keep coming back year after year and not hit them all.

Visiting Banff with kids – bottom line

Banff National Park is a wonderful place for a unique experience with kids, regardless of how outdoorsy and adventurous your family is. You can conquer the rapids of the Bow River together, bike along the Bow Valley Parkway when it closes to vehicles, or backpack remote trails through grizzly bear country. Or, you can have an equally memorable time with your family dipping toes in ice-cold turquoise waters of glacial lakes, summiting a mountain via a gondola, or walking along the Bow River looking for wildlife.

Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, is the perfect outdoor vacation destination for any family.

Have you ever explored Banff National Park with kids?

About the author

Writer, editor, photographer, teacher, and mama. Sarah Boles resides near Kansas City, Missouri, and escapes into the woods whenever she can. Her professional and personal mission is to help families get outside by increasing access to the outdoors for everyone. When she’s not creating or teaching, Sarah’s playing outside, usually with her kids. She loves to climb, hike, run trails, snowshoe, paddle, jump in puddles, garden, and pick up trash.

You can find more from Sarah online in the following locations: 
Instagram: @on_belay_edits
RWMC posts: Sarah Boles

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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

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*Post contains affiliate links. This post was sponsored by Evrwild, maker of premium kids’ kayaks. Kayaks in the photos were provided for review purposes. All opinions expressed and photos herein belong to the author.

Kayaking with kids

If kayaking with your kids is something you’d like to try, we’re here to help! Getting your kids interested in kayaking is probably easier than you think. Kids love being on the water, and kayaking is a really fun way to explore your local waterways. Start talking to your kids about your paddling adventures, the wildlife and nature they’ll see on their trip, and how you can’t wait to spend this time with them. You can also encourage them by letting them try sitting in a kayak at home or at a sporting goods store, or enroll them in a kayaking class if they’re old enough. 

Once they’re interested, start planning your kayaking trip together so that your child feels involved at every step of the journey. Suggest some of their favorite local lakes, ponds, or bay to get started. Or, choose a familiar route that you know will be interesting for them and keep their attention. Or consider letting them invite a friend if you have a second adult available to help supervise. The main thing is that they have fun, so make that the purpose of your trip.  

Benefits of kayaking for kids

Kayaking is a highly popular water-based activity, but it also provides kids with a host of different benefits. Here are a few benefits of kayaking for kids that we really appreciate:

• Nature appreciation – Kayaking can be a superb way to help foster a love and appreciation for nature and the world around them. From a kayak, your child will be able to see things in and on the water that they’d never see from land. This can awaken their sense of curiosity about ecology, wildlife, and the environment.

• Unique vantage point – There’s nothing better than seeing birds and animals from a close vantage point, and kayaking can be a great way to achieve this. It can allow your kid to explore areas that they wouldn’t be able to reach on foot, which gives them a whole new perspective on and appreciation of the world around them.

• Teaches cooperation and determination – In order to successfully complete a kayak trip, everyone needs to work together. This will help your child learn how important it is for everyone to cooperate in order to achieve a common goal. Kayaking can be a challenging activity, especially for beginners. It takes time, effort and practice to master the art and learn a new skill. This can be an excellent lesson for kids, that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve anything they set their mind to.

• Water safety – When kayaking, kids learn to act responsibly while on the water in order to protect themselves and others around them. They must be good listeners and follow the rules. They learn to appreciate water and weather conditions, evaluate their skill levels, and be safe around water. 

Best age to start kayaking with kids

Kayaking is one of our family’s favorite water sports. And one of the great things about kayaking is that you can start kayaking with kids from an early age. The age at which you start kayaking with your kids will depend on the child’s maturity level, swimming skills, and physical ability, as well as your own kayaking skill and experience.

Kids as young as 2 or 3 can kayak with a grown-up by sitting in the center of a tandem kayak (called “duffing”). However, this is only recommended if you have some kayaking experience, your child can sit still for the length of your kayaking adventure and can float on their own face-up when wearing a personal-floatation device. This is a great option for smaller kids and toddlers to get them started. 

Around age 5, kids can sit in the front seat of a double kayak and help paddle. This is also the age when younger children can consider getting a solo kayak that’s the right size for them. 

When can a child paddle their own kayak?

Kids can start practicing their kayaking skills in a single child-sized kayak on calm water as young as four years old. At this age, practice will primarily involve holding the paddle, practicing moving it around, and paddling for a few minutes. In calm waters, young children can manage very short distances in a small kayak. There should always be a skilled adult close by, and small children should wear a PFD and be able to swim.

By the age of seven, most kids will be able to paddle their own kid-sized kayak independently. By this age, most kids have a longer attention span and the physical strength needed to kayak continuously for half a mile to a mile (this means younger paddlers should be able to paddle between a half an hour to an hour). 

Safety tips for kayaking with kids

1. Personal floatation devices 

All children under 13 years of age are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life vest or personal flotation device (PFD) when on a boat. There are different size requirements for children of different weights. Infant-size PFDs fit children who are 8-30 lbs. and have a neck pad and a crotch strap.  Child-size PFDs fit kids 30-50 lbs. Youth PFDs fit kids that are 50-90 lbs. 

Check out this post for more information on PFDs, size and weight limits, and our recommendations for the best life jackets for kids. 

2. Choose the right location to kayak

Another important safety consideration when kayaking with kids is choosing your destination. Locations with high currents, waves, or heavy boat traffic can easily become scary and overwhelming for kids. When starting kayaking with young kids, we highly recommend starting in calm open waters that are clear, no waves or wind, and are less trafficked by larger boats. The first time your kids kayak should be a safe and fun (and relatively short) outing. 

3. Master a few skills

It’s highly recommended that your kids know how to swim before you start kayaking with kids. Even with a personal floatation device, knowing how to get in and out of your kayak and what to do in case of tipping over or getting stuck is important. Before you go, make sure to practice wet-exits, braces, and other safety techniques. REI has some great posts on these topics: How to Do a Wet Exit from a Kayak (for sit-in kayaks) and How to Edge and Do a Brace Stroke in Your Kayak. The best way to be prepared is to practice. 

4. Smaller paddle

The paddle is your connection with the water, so be sure to get your child a paddle that is the right size and comfortable. Kayak paddles come in various sizes for children. You’ll want one that is shorter and lighter than adult-sized kayaking paddles. The perfect paddle length for your child will depend on their height and the kayak’s width. But usually, child-specific paddles will be shorter, lighter, and with smaller blades than regular paddles. Consider paddles that are about 200 cm long with a narrow shaft. Kids can tire easily and will have more trouble managing a large paddle that’s large and unruly for them. The right paddle could make the difference between a pleasant trip and a frustrating (and exhausting) one. 

5. Know before you go

Water and weather conditions are important when deciding where to kayak with kids. Make sure you do your research on the place where you’ll be kayaking with kids. Study tides, currents, and boat traffic with the kids ahead of time so you know what to expect (and when). Be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of your trip so that you know what to expect (and then check again on the day of your kayaking excursion). 

6. Never strap a child into a kayak

Never ever strap your child into a kayak. Although you may think this is a good idea for wiggly children, it’s extremely dangerous if you capsize. 

7. Set the rules

Safety rules are essential when spending time on the water with kids. Before you ever get into the water, let your kids know the rules and what the consequences will be if they do not follow them. Kayaking rules may be different when on a small pond, as opposed to going down a river with current. Make sure your child knows how far from you they can go and any rules about stopping along the way. Depending on your kayaking location, other rules could include the following:

• Life jackets are to be worn at all times.
• No standing on the kayaks. 
• No fooling around, leaning, or reaching out of the kayak.
• No jumping in and out of the kayak without permission.
• Paddles are not toys and should only be used for paddling, not as a play pretend sword or fighting staff.

8. Have a plan

Create a float plan each time you go paddling, and inform a friend or family member where you’re going and when to expect you back. Go over emergency situations with the other adults (and older children) so that you know who’s in charge of what if a situation should arise. Your plan should include what to do if a boat tips over (capsizes), someone gets hurt, falls out of their boat, or gets separated from the fleet. Procedures should be established and understood by each adult for each of these situations.

8. Maintain your ratio

You should always aim to have one adult for every child in your kayaking group until you’re confident in all paddlers’ skills and experience, including kids. Beginner paddlers should never take kids on the water without an experienced kayaker to accompany them.

Best places to kayak with kids

What to bring when kayaking with kids

• Paddles
• PFDs
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Hat/sunglasses
• Dry bag for phone, camera, snacks, etc.
• Sandals/water shoes
• Water bottles
• Float bag
• Tow/throw rope
• First aid kit
• Quick dry clothing
• Towels
• Snacks

How to choose a kayak for kids

Once your child has mastered the basic paddle strokes and safety techniques and has the maturity to paddle solo, you might want to consider getting them a child-sized kayak of their own. Adult kayaks are built for adults and are not always the best option for kids (even larger kids). Kayaks designed specifically for kids will help your child learn to be a confident kayaker and last for years. 

There are two main different types of kayaks – sit-on kayaks and sit-in kayaks. Sit-on-top kayaks are probably the easiest kayak to start with kids and the best choice for warm water kayaking. These types of kayaks offer a variety of positions for kids to sit in, which helps them get comfortable and stay in the kayak longer.

Sit-on kayaks (as opposed to a sit-in kayak) also tend to be more stable, difficult to capsize, and nearly impossible to sink because they have built-in drainage holes. Kids often prefer sit-on-top kayaks because they’re less restricting. They’re also easier to enter and exit, meaning that your kid can go for a swim and climb back on. And, if they flip over, the water drains out easily and quickly. 

When choosing a kayak for kids, you’ll also want to consider the size and weight of the kayak. Buying a kayak is an investment, so you want one that’s easy to transport (so you’ll actually use it) and can be used for years as your child grows. Other things to consider (and great features to have) are storage options, ergonomic features, durability, carry handles, and material. 

Best kayak for kids: Evrwild Kayak

Started by a mom and dad during the pandemic, Evrwild Kayaks are the best youth kayak and child-sized option for kids. The Evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak is specifically designed for kids ages 4-12. And it’s not just a scaled-down version of an adult-sized kayak. 

Evrwild kayaks are ergonomically designed with everything a child needs while out on the water. Footrests that fit a kid, a cup holder within easy reach, and places to store special finds and gear that kids love. On top of that, the Evrwild kayak is a sit-on-top kayak that’s built to the highest standards of quality and durability, ensuring many years of adventure. 

The wide stance provides a stable paddling platform to keep your child safely in the kayak. The Evrwild kayak has a padded slip-resistant seat, swim-up deck (for easy re-entry), paddle rest, and stable hull design with great maneuverability and steady tracking. 

We absolutely LOVE our Evrwild kayaks. They are easy enough for my 4-year-old to maneuver, but large and sturdy enough for the 10-year-old to use as a fishing kayak. The swim-up step comes in very handy when kids are in and out of the water. 

The Evrwild kayaks come in two colors – blue and purple. It’s made in the USA and comes with a 5-year limited warranty. We think it’s the best kids kayak on the market.

Is kayaking on your adventure list?
Have you ever gone kayaking with your kids? 

The post Tips for Kayaking with Kids & the Best Kids’ Kayak appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post was sponsored by Sunriver Resort. All opinions expressed and photos contained herein belong to the author.

Sunriver Resort in Bend, Oregon

If you are looking for sunshine 300 days out of the year, Sunriver, Oregon is waiting for you! This region of the PNW experiences a warm-summer Mediterranean climate and lots of sunshine year-round. In Sunriver, you will find a little gem known as Sunriver Resort. Sunriver is located about 15 miles south of Bend, Oregon right at the foot of the Cascade Mountains.  The Deschutes River (a major tributary of the Columbia River) runs right through this beautiful resort and alongside the bike trails and golf courses.

If you’re looking for a fun getaway with plenty of adventure right at your doorstep, Sunriver Resort has so much to keep the entire family entertained, occupied and having fun outside. We spent a few glorious end of summer days enjoying this beautiful resort and absolutely loved every minute.  I’m so excited to share our experience with you and encourage you to consider adding Sunriver Resort to your “must-see” list as soon as you can. This place is a true gem.  My family and I will definitely be back. Sunriver may just be our new summer tradition.

Outdoor adventures at Sunriver Resort

The best way to get around Sunriver Resort is on a bicycle.  Bike to grab your morning coffee, go shopping at the village square, dine at beautiful restaurants, all while filling your day with outdoor adventure and exercise.  Every activity is within biking distance. If you don’t want to bring your own bikes, the Bike Barn has over 300 bikes ready to ride! Bikes are available first-come, first-serve and rentals include a helmet, lock and bike map. 

Biking is definitely the most popular outdoor activity in the area and something this resort is known for. The bike trails are extensive, impressive and exquisite! Ride alongside the Deschutes River or through the forest on over 40 miles of paved bike paths and some of the best mountain biking trails in Oregon.

Horseback riding at Sunriver

One of the highlights during our stay was our visit to Sunriver Trail Rides. It is a magnificent Horse Ranch with over 54 beautiful horses. Sunriver offers guided trail rides  in the spring, summer and fall for all experience levels, as well as pony rides for kids ages 2-6. If you need a lesson or refresher course, they also offer horseback riding lessons for those that want to polish up their riding skills. 

We spent the day riding along the river and across stunning meadows.  My youngest enjoyed a pony ride while the rest of us set out on “The Great Meadow Experience.”  We saw coyote, deer, and other wildlife roaming through these serene meadows, which was just spectacular!

Also, this is a great place to meet genuine real-life cowboys! How about that? If you do the ride, you will get to experience a trail ride led by a real-life cowboy who will not only teach you, but entertain you with incredible stories and tales of cowboy life.  These two had so much to talk about as we galloped down the meadow. 

We also made friends with the most amazing horses.  My children absolutely fell in love with these gentle animals and within minutes, they were the best of friends. 

We spent the entire day horseback riding and getting to know these beautiful creatures. I love adventures where we can slow down and really take it all in. This adventure was one that I will always remember for it’s calm and soothing experience. The entire day felt relaxed, un-rushed, fun and grounding. It was such a great way to spend our last days of summer.

Deschutes River float trips at Sunriver Resort

The next day, we set out on a water adventure down the Deschutes River.  A quick bike ride from the resort and we explored a 6 mile stretch of the Deschutes River. This is such a great way to see the beauty of this entire area.  You can float, kayak, or paddle down the river on a raft, canoe, kayak or paddleboard. All rentals are available at the Sunriver Marina and include life jackets, paddles and a shuttle ride back to the marina at the end of the float. 

We rented canoes and slowly made our way down the river. This felt just like a real-life lazy river, only better! The scenery was incredible, the company was fantastic and the weather was perfect. We stopped for snacks along the way and enjoyed a slow morning cruising down the river. We had so much fun floating down this picturesque river while lazy ducks moved right along with us! 

Sunriver Resort pool

And last, no trip to Sunriver Resort would be complete without a trip to the pool! The Cove pool is the resort’s outdoor pool and is zero-entry (great for little ones). It also has a hot tub, private cabanas, a waterslide, nature walk and discovery area, a poolside restaurant, lakeside trails, and a spacious deck and lawn. My kids absolutely LOVED the rock slide.  The pool offers gorgeous mountain views and was such a serene experience. 

Adventures for everyone

Sunriver Resort is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation for the whole family.  The adults had just as much fun as the kids and we all got to do something (multiple things, actually) we loved. Our days were filled with so much adventure and we never had to leave the resort.  The location is inviting and offers so much fun for the entire family and we are already making our list of what we’ll do when we come back.  Because, we will definitely be back!  

Have you been to Sunriver Resort in Oregon?
What activity would you be most excited about?

About the author

Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation to a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places and she loves documenting their adventures.

Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
All RWMC posts: Araceli

The post Family Travel: Sunriver Resort, Oregon appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Benefits of stand up paddleboarding (SUP)

Paddleboarding is a great way to spend time with your family outdoors. You get fresh air and sunlight, which we can all use during stressful times, as well as plenty of full-body exercise. SUP promotes balance, increases arm, leg and core strength, and improves endurance as well. The balancing works on your foot, leg, and core, while the paddling is great for your arms and shoulders! Paddleboarding is also a great way to build confidence in children. They get so excited when they’re able to stand securely and do it themselves. Being on the water is also amazing for stress release, which we could all use more of right now. Being outside and in nature is imperative to your family’s mental health.

SUP during COVID

Because of the pandemic this year, there’s been a boom in individual sports that allow for fresh air and physical activity, while still following social distancing guidelines. Biking, skateboarding, hiking, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding are popular outdoor, COVID-friendly family activities. While the beaches may be closed during the pandemic, stand up paddleboarding gives you an opportunity to enjoy the water without using the beach! Our city allowed the residents to exercise outside during quarantine, so stand up paddleboarding was a great option!

What do I need to stand up paddleboard with kids?

The supplies needed for stand up paddleboarding are minimal! You’ll need a stand up paddleboard, a paddle, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each person. There is a fairly wide range when it comes to the price of paddleboards, depending on the size, material and brand. We have two solid paddleboards, but many people now are purchasing inflatable stand up paddleboards (iSUP) because they are easier to store and transport!

When picking a stand up paddleboard, it is important to note the size and weight limit of the board. Wider boards are easier to balance on and great for doing yoga and toting kids along! They usually have a higher weight limit as well. The thinner boards can be more difficult to balance on but are better for SUP surfing! If you have young children that you plan riding with, be sure that the board you pick can handle the weight of you both!

Some SUPs come with a paddle, but if you are purchasing the board and paddle separately I recommend an adjustable paddle. With an adjustable paddle, you can make it smaller for the kids when they’re paddling and then make it larger for you when it’s your turn to paddle. 

If investing in your own SUP isn’t in the budget, look for a local SUP rental company! Renting equipment is a great option for those just getting started to see whether they’ll like it.

Other items to bring along

Another great item to have, but isn’t necessary is a waterproof bag that can attach to your board. We have one like this that I’m able to clip right to my board. We usually keep bug spray, sunscreen, car keys, and a cell phone in there in case of an emergency. You obviously run a risk of the bag detaching and losing your keys/phone in the water, so always double-check that it’s securely fastened. When we have our whole family on the water, we feel having a way to call someone during an emergency is definitely worth the risk of the bag detaching and falling in the water.

How to get started stand up paddleboarding with kids

Once you have your gear, the only other things you need are water and a sense of adventure! Learning how to stand up paddleboard may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t take long before you’re on your board cruising through the water. Here are a few more tips for getting started. 

Where to go to stand up paddleboard?

You can technically try stand up paddleboarding in any body of water. However, I’d recommend that beginners start on lakes and ponds and avoid the open ocean or rivers. This way you don’t have to worry about large waves or fast-moving currents. The more confident and comfortable you are, the easier it will be for you to start transitioning to moving water and the open ocean. 

Get comfortable on your board first

Before you get your children involved, you’ll want to be sure YOU are comfortable stand up paddleboarding. You should feel comfortable balancing, paddling, falling and climbing back up on the board. When you add children to the mix, you’ll have to manage all of that PLUS assist them in the water and back onto the SUP if they fall. If you’re brand new to the sport, I recommend taking some time on your own to get the hang of it. Start on your knees and then work your way up to standing.

Practice in shallow water

Once you’re feeling ready, it’s time to add in the kids! Before you toss your kids on a paddleboard and head out of a long adventure, you’ll want to be sure they’re comfortable in the water and on the board. You’ll want to help them practice in shallow water so you can stand beside them, hold the paddleboard, and assist them as they become more comfortable. It may take quite a few spills and retries before they figure it out.

Make practicing fun for the kids

Before taking our kids out on adventures, we made games for them to play on our stand up paddleboards. It’s important that your children feel comfortable falling off the board, swimming back to it, and climbing back up on it. We let our kids practice by standing up on the boards and jumping off into the water! Kids LOVE doing this! It’s like having your own dock to jump off.

The other game they play is a made-up game called “Paddle Battle.” This is better for older children. Both kids stand up on a paddleboard facing each other, a few feet apart. I call out, “3, 2, 1..Paddle battle!” and they each use their legs to rock the SUP back and forth until someone falls off.  The last one standing is the winner! This is great for balance and stability practice, and they get used to the feeling of falling off the board and then climbing back on. 

SUP with younger children

For younger children, you’ll want to have them feel what it’s like to sit on the board. You can have them explore the paddleboard on land and in the water. Have them sit on the board while you stand next to them holding the board and give them a nice, slow, calm ride around a shallow spot. Once they’re comfortable with that, you can try kneeling on the SUP with them sitting in the front, and paddling from a kneeling position. That way you’re still nice and close to them, and able to provide comfort and encouragement. 

Practice paddling

When the kids are comfortable on the stand up paddleboard, you can then have them begin to practice paddling! You’ll want to start in a shallow place so that you can stand next to them and help them navigate. If they’ve been kayaking, learning to paddle on a SUP will be easy! Make sure your children are comfortable paddling in a straight line as well as making turns before you head out too far. My kids like to paddle forward fast and then stop the paddle in the water to make quick turns. 

Get out there!

Once you and your children are all comfortable on your stand up paddleboard, it’s time to adventure! Depending on the ages of your children, you may choose to have them sit on the stand up paddleboard with an adult paddling or have them paddle on their own.

Pro tip: Our children are at an in-between age right now. They’re older and able to paddle alone, but not for long distances. So they use these children’s kayaks for longer adventures and paddle in their kayaks while my husband and I use our SUPS. The small kayaks are lightweight and easy to carry. They’re also very easy to turn so it’s great paddling practice. It’s a wonderful way for all of us to have a great experience on the water during a longer journey! 

Find what works best for your family and head out exploring! The memories you make together will be priceless, and you’ll all go home feeling rejuvenated. 

Have you been stand up paddleboarding with kids?
What’s your favorite tip?

About the author

Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing our best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived.

You can find Chelsea online in the following locations:
Instagram: @dimples.and.the.blonde
Website: dimplesandtheblonde.com
RWMC posts: Chelsea Furlong

The post How to Stand Up Paddleboard with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Adventures in canoeing

As we pushed off the shore for our first family canoe trip of the summer, I held my breath. Our one-year-old daughter had protested loudly when I strapped on her life jacket, making me think we might be in for a miserable afternoon. While our son, Talon, had dozens of canoe trips under his size 4T belt, Lyra hadn’t yet been afloat as a busy toddler. We were not quite sure what we were getting into.

Luckily, Lyra’s screams turned into delighted coos as our boat skimmed across the green water. She bounced between my legs, pointing at the birds and trees. From his perch in the center, Talon picked up his small paddle, proud to help propel us across the lake.

Got water? Just add kids

My husband and I are water people. We’ve sailed across the Pacific Ocean, snorkeled around the Caribbean, paddled through the Everglades, and rafted down plenty of wild rivers. Once we had kids, we began integrating them into our adventures from the get-go.

Canoes have been the perfect way for us to introduce our children to the water.

Two years ago we bought a used 15-foot Coleman to explore lakes and rivers near our home in Montana. We’ve since added a small outboard motor and a sail, too. Sometimes we go out for an hour, and sometimes we pile in the camping gear and head out for a week.

Reasons to canoe with kids

There are so many amazing benefits of canoeing for kids and families. From spending time outdoors together to learning a skill, canoeing with your children is a great way to get active on the water at any age. Canoeing is something my family has enjoyed through many phases/seasons with (hopefully) many more years of canoeing in our future. Here are my top reasons why I’d recommend canoeing for your family, too.

Low-risk and low-investment

Canoeing is a low-risk and low-investment sport to try out. You can buy a good used canoe for ~$300, or rent one for ~$50/day to try it out first to see if it’s something your kids and family would like.  Canoes come in a wide range of sizes and styles, ranging from sleek wooden boats (which tend to be very expensive) to wide plastic boats and even inflatable versions. (Hint: these are the cheapest options and easiest to transport, but they don’t last as hard-shell canoes and require more time to inflate/deflate.) Some canoes are specifically-designed for speed or to handle whitewater, but all canoes will work on any calm water bodies you want to float.

Tough and transportable

Canoes can be stored in or outside, and are virtually maintenance-free! They’re also easy to transport, which means you can take them nearly anywhere. Most canoes only weigh 50-80 pounds, which is totally manageable for 1-2 adult(s). They can be placed upside-down on top of your car, no trailer needed.

Pro tip: Use foam pool noodles to protect your vehicle’s roof/paint if you don’t have a roof rack.

Aluminum and plastic boats are particularly good for kids and families. They are tough, washable, and more stable. When choosing a good canoe for kids, look for boats with flatter bottoms, which feel less “tippy.” As you might expect, it’s possible to tip over in a canoe, especially with squirmy kids around. Test the stability near the shore, wiggling hips and moving around in the boat to see how much side-to-side leeway you have before it feels uncomfortable.

Pro tip: You can purchase stabilizer pontoon floats for your canoe, which make it super safe and allow you to walk around the boat or stand up to cast for fish.

Beginner tips for canoeing with kids

It doesn’t take long to learn how to paddle a canoe, even for young kids. You can watch videos online to see the basic steering strokes and rowing positions. Or if you’re a hands-on learner, play around in a small pond to figure it out on your own.

Ready to try canoeing out this fall? Here are some helpful tips for beginners when canoeing with kids:

1. Get excited! 

Your happiness (or crankiness) is contagious to your children. Kids love seeing their parents get excited about things, particularly things that involve spending time with them. If you’re thrilled to be on the water, your kids will be, too. Spark excitement for this adventure in them by talking about your canoeing trips, the things you’ll do/see, the reasons why you love it and how much fun canoeing will be for them. Let them help plan the trip and help pack the canoe so the whole family is invested in the outing.

2. Offer clear safety rules and rewards

Before you launch, set a few clear safety rules: (1) don’t stand up without asking, (2) no leaning or jumping over the side, (3) keep life jackets on at all times, (4) no whining (ha! good luck with that one). Spending time together outside in a canoe is a reward in and of itself, but if your little ones need a bit of extra incentive to follow the safety rules, try offering a reward at the end of the day, such as a sweet treat or a movie.

3. Designate a special spot for everyone

Having a plan is half the battle. Before you get started, decide which adult will be in the stern (back seat) steering. This person will have less leeway to help manage the kids. The adult in the bow (front seat) can help paddle forward when needed, but can also take breaks easily. If you have a toddler, stand them between the adult’s legs in the bow where they can be the lookout and move around a little. Babies can be worn in a soft carrier. Older kids can sit on the center crossbars or a middle seat (if the canoe has one) to help paddle. Or kids can hunker down to play in the bottom of the boat. Letting the kids know exactly where they’ll be and what their “job” is, helps manage expectations.

4. Take your time

Like most outings with children in tow, the trip will probably take longer than you think. While you and your partner might want to race across the lake, the kids will enjoy it more if you take plenty of breaks. In fact, much of the joy in canoeing is playing on shore! Stop often at interesting spots to swim, have lunch, and explore islands or beaches you couldn’t get to without a boat. And don’t expect (or force!) the kids to add much (any) horsepower. Paddling is simply a fun diversion for them.

5. Just remember, it gets easier

As with any new activity with kids, canoeing as a family might be tough at first until everyone learns the ropes. This is doubly true if your kids are very young. But don’t give up! Remember that even if canoeing isn’t quite as fun as you’d hoped the first couple of times out, you’re building skills that will last you and your kids a lifetime. You’re creating wonderful bonding opportunities for years to come. And trust me, eventually, it will get easier!

Canoeing trip packing list

I’ve also put together a list of necessary, helpful and optional items that you may want to include in your bag on your first/next canoeing trip with kids. All of the items below should be placed in a waterproof bag since the bottom of the canoe usually gets wet from everyone’s shoes and dripping paddles. If you don’t have a dry bag, wrap your backpack or tote in a sturdy trash bag. Buckets also make for great storage in a canoe.

Life jackets

Everyone in the canoe needs to wear a life jacket. Even if the grown-ups are stellar swimmers. You’re the role models for your kids and safety starts and stops with you. Have kids practice wearing theirs before you get in the boat, so they get used to them.

Pro tip: If you can’t find a comfortable jacket for your kiddo, try U.S. Coast Guard-approved water wings that are less bulky.

Clothing

Certain clothing will help out on your canoe trip with kids. Here’s a shortlist of must-pack clothing items. 

• Sandals with straps or waterproof rain boots.
• Sun hats and sun-protective clothing.
• Rain gear, which can double as windbreakers.
• Extra outfit for little kids who will likely get wet and muddy playing.

Food and drinks

Like all outings with kiddos, make sure you pack lots of easy-to-grab snacks to keep them occupied, fueled, and happy. We like to bring “special” drinks for the kids to make sure they stay hydrated in the sun: lemonade powder in their water bottles is a favorite.

 Gear

• Toilet paper if you’re not near public restrooms
• Umbrella or pop-up tent for shade in the boat or on shore—perfect for passing rainstorms, too!
• Seat pads or stadium-style folding seats
• Rope to attach to the bow to help pull the boat on shore
• Maps of the area you’re paddling
• Tarp or blanket for picnics or for “beds” for kids in the bottom of the canoe
• Extra paddle(s) for the kids: emergency paddles that are adjustable and light-weight work well

 Fun stuff

• Binoculars (monoculars work best for you young kids—we love ours!)
• Field guides
• Fishing rod
• Frisbee
• Bubbles
• Chalk (to draw on rocks or the inside of the boat—it washes right off!)
• Bucket (have the kids fill it with rocks/sticks/leaves on shore, then throw them overboard one at a time while you paddle)

Have you ever gone canoeing with kids?
What tips would you recommend for beginners?

About the author

Brianna Randall of Adventure Families is a mother of two, writer, dancer, traveler, and nature-addict. She owns a small communications business, and her articles have appeared in The Washington Post, BBC, Outside, Backpacker, Mamalode, Scary Mommy, Working Mother, and High Country News. Her husband Rob is a photographer, adept outdoorsman, and all-around Mr. Fix-It.  He works for Trout Unlimited conserving rivers and streams. They’ve made a pact to keep adventuring as a family, with the kiddos in tow.

You can find Brianna in the following online locations:
Website: adventurefamilies.org
Instagram: @exploreoutsidewithkids
Facebook: @adventurefamilies.org

The post Beginner Tips for Canoeing With Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.