On days when your kids are balls of energy primed to burst, and your nerves are on a hair-trigger, try heading outdoors for Hiking Vacations in Canada. Hiking helps prevent nature deficit disorder and can even alter the brain to improve your mood. While reaping the mental and physical benefits of hiking, keep the following tips in mind fora fun, safe, and relaxing hike for all ages.
Plan Together
Planning ahead for a trip is a no-brainer for most families, but hiking outings require special considerations. When deciding on a trail or park to explore, keep the ages of all children in mind. Choose a trail that is realistic in length, difficulty, and accessibility. Also, take note of any nearby landmarks like lakes or nature centers, and plan accordingly.
Even an easy half-mile hike will prove impossible for a toddler drawn to a nearby beach. Conversely, a teenager might be easily bored by a moderate hike and prefer a challenge. Review trail maps as a family to empower and excite children about your hiking adventure.
Avoid long commutes that reduce trail time, increase your ecological footprint, and require excessive planning and supplies. Instead, find a local part or preserve to engage children and promote environmental stewardship of a much-loved natural place. Beginners should start snail, on a short, well-marked trail close to home.
Bring a Backpack
Preparing for extended time outdoors is an exercise in trial and error, but here are a few tips that will help make your trip a success. Dress in weather-appropriate, moisture-wicking layers and apply bug repellent and sun protection as needed.
Pack a bag to carry enough water and snacks to last the length of the hike. Also pack a towel, trash bag, and changes of clothes as needed, as many trails follow streams or ponds (often unmarked). Safety items are also a must; pack a whistle, first aid kit, and any survival materials you are skilled with.
Get the kids excited by helping them make their own nature backpacks to help lighten the load, and allow for additional items like magnifying glasses, nature journals, and ID guides. For small children that tire easily, bring a carrier or hiking pack for them to ride or nap in.
Explore and Have Fun
Children love to run outdoors in packs, so meet up with friends and family whenever possible. Urge the children to explore off trail in stream beds, over downed trees, and under rocks. Make multiple stops to eat, rest, play, and share thoughts and discussion about the natural world. Take time to scribble notes or photograph interesting scenes from the trail in a nature journal. You will be amazed how your experiences compare from season to season.
No Comments