hiking with kids

  • HIKE, PARENTING

    How to Hike with Kids (Without the Whining and Complaining)

    If you’ve ever started a family hike full of optimism only to be met with complaints, whining, or outright resistance, you’re not alone. Hiking with kids is rewarding…it builds confidence, resilience, and a love for nature. But, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Today, North Carolina mom of four, Courtney Fleet, shares what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to getting kids excited to hit the trail. In this post, she shares practical hiking tips for families that will help you prepare, prevent meltdowns, and keep your kids motivated from trailhead to summit.

    hiking with kid - how to stop the whining and complaining

    Why Hiking with Kids Matters

    We all know how important it is for kids to spend time outside. Sunshine and fresh air can lift moods and reduce stress. Running, jumping, climbing, and hiking help growing bodies stay strong and coordinated. Nature invites kids to explore, be curious, and use their imaginations. When they face challenges outdoors — like climbing a tree, balancing on a log, or reaching a summit — they build confidence, resilience, and perseverance.

    Research shows that children who spend time outside also tend to focus better, think more creatively, and work more cooperatively with others. Above all, time in nature helps kids feel connected to the world around them, which benefits their overall mental and emotional health.

    All of these advantages are exactly why you’ve decided to take your kiddos on a hike! But before you go, here are my hard-earned lessons on how to deal with the inevitable bumps along the way.

    Learning to Hike with Kids: A Journey in Patience

    I’ve loved hitting the trails for as long as I can remember, so when I became a mom, I knew I didn’t want to set that passion aside. But hiking with kids has a definite learning curve. That first hike with my oldest daughter felt like such an achievement — but as she grew and her abilities changed, I had to adapt.

    Through practice and repetition, we both got better. We learned that every stage brought new challenges and new joys. By the time our second, third, and fourth daughters joined the family, we’d hiked all over the East Coast and had a much better sense of which trails suited us, what to wear, what to pack, and — most importantly — how to keep going even when moods dipped.

    These early lessons shaped the way we hike today and helped me discover tricks that boost motivation, keep energy up, and (mostly) prevent whining.

    So, if you are a mom who loves the outdoors and wants to bring your kids along, it is doable- I promise! Here are ten main tips I have learned that might help make your next (or first!) family hike a whole lot smoother. (Hint: most of the effort starts before you even hit the trail.)

    Tip #1: Prep Everything the Night Before

    If I don’t gather our gear the night before, we’ll never get out the door on time. Prepping ahead means a smoother start and more time on the trail. The night before, I set out:

    • Backpacks
    • Snacks and water bottles
    • Sunscreen and bug spray
    • First aid kit (If you’re wondering what to include in your kit, our Hiking Safety & First Aid 101 post walks you through exactly what to pack for both kids and adults.)
    • Socks, shoes, and hats
    • Diapers, wipes, and baby carrier (if needed)
    • A post-hike picnic lunch

    Getting everything ready in advance makes departure quick and stress-free. It also prevents the slow build-up of whining while kids wait around for you to pack. For a complete checklist of the must-have items to bring on every hike, check out our 10 Essentials for Family Hiking guide.

    Tip #2: Pack More Snacks Than You Think You Need

    This one is non-negotiable: snacks are essential for hiking with kids. A hungry child on the trail can quickly derail even the most beautiful hike. While at home, I might limit snacks to teach patience, the trail is different. Out there, snacks keep everyone’s energy (and mood) up.

    I pack hearty, filling options: think granola bars, trail mix, fruit, or cheese sticks. And I always bring more than I think we’ll need. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no one ever complained about having too many snacks on a hike.

    Tip #3: Let Kids Be Part of the Process

    Even though I handle most of the planning, I make sure my girls have ownership over parts of the hike. They might:

    • Pack their own backpack
    • Choose their snacks and water bottle
    • Help plan our picnic
    • Pick the car music playlist
    • Choose which games we play on the trail

    If we’re not locked into a specific route, I’ll even let them vote on which trail to take. This involvement gets them invested, builds excitement, and makes the hike feel like a shared adventure rather than something they were dragged into.

    Tip #4: Choose Trails with a “Wow” Factor

    Kids hike better when there is a fun feature to look forward to – a waterfall, an expansive view, a creek to splash in. Whatever the destination, be sure to have a “thing” they are working toward. They will be much more agreeable to keep moving than to just “walk for the sake of walking.”

    Whenever I find a good hike online or read about one on a blog, I save it to my phone. Over time, I have built a running list of trails I can choose from when I need inspiration or want to match a hike to my kids’ energy level.

    Tip #5: Build up Gradually

    Start small. Local walks, short loops, or just some time on a nearby park trail can go a long way toward creating future hikers. Kids of all ages are capable of long hikes, but they build endurance and confidence through practice, just like we do. Put in the ground work by increasing their tolerance and distance gradually.

    Take it from someone who thought her first hike as a mom of two should be six miles. Since I had always carried baby #1 in a hiking pack, miles were never a barrier. When baby #2 joined us, I wrongly assumed I could keep up my same mileage. Needless to say, I had to rethink which trails I picked moving forward.

    (Spoiler: we did not make the summit that day.)

    If you’re navigating the trails while expecting, our Hiking While Pregnant article has practical tips to keep you safe, comfortable, and confident outdoors.

    Tip #6: Keep Expectations Low (And Expect Some Whining)

    Keep your expectations simple, especially in the beginning. If your kids complain along the trail, don’t let that deter you from trying again. Whining is normal (don’t let it discourage you).

    I started hiking with my girls when they were very young, and even now, after years of hitting the trails, they can still get whiny. So, when they whine, don’t take it personally.

    Kids are pros at finding the one thing they don’t like about any situation. Pool? Water’s too cold. Ice cream? Scoop’s not big enough. Gorgeous waterfall? They didn’t want to see a waterfall that day. Stay the course. With time, hiking becomes something they look forward to; something they accept as part of their family rhythm.

    Tip #7: Don’t Panic if the First 30 Minutes are Rough

    It usually takes a little time for at least one of my kids (typically the same one) to get on board with that day’s hike. There might be whining as we pack the car, moping during the drive, a mini meltdown at the trailhead, or dramatic resistance in the first few steps. But here’s the thing: she does this at home, too. I would much rather parent a tantrum out in nature than in the confines of four walls.

    And you know what? Once we’ve started hiking – especially with a fun game or treat along the way – she’s off running, laughing, singing, and genuinely enjoying herself. Remember that not all kids are enthusiastic about plans they didn’t make, but a little strategy, some silliness, and a snack or two go a long way toward turning that around.

    Pro tip: If you have a little one still in a carrier, this might cause some level of frustration from an older child. It is not unusual for there to be jealous sibling complaints from the one who must walk while her sister gets to ride. I have learned to calmly coax the grumpy walker (with the tips listed here!) until she finds her stride. And she always does. 

    Tip #8: Be Prepared to Stop. Often.

    While I prefer to hike at a strong pace when I’m on my own, I have found that hiking with kids means stopping often along the trail. Like, a LOT.

    An ideal throwing stick, a creepy crawly creature, a glistening spider web, a balance beam log, the perfect rock – these are the kinds of things that stop my girls in their tracks. If I continue on ahead, or prod them to start up again before they are ready, I have prevented them from enjoying their hike their way.

    We are out there to discover and enjoy all that nature has to share. What better way to bring learning and fascination into your hikes than to spend that time observing and interacting with the world around you? Those stops to examine nature often become the moments they talk about most afterward.

    Pro Tip: One fun way to make the trail more engaging is to create your own gear. Our DIY Hiking Sticks for Kids project is a favorite for giving little hikers a sense of ownership and adventure.

    Tip #9: Add in Some Fun and Spontaneity

    Nothing says hiking has to be boring or serious (or quiet). Silly songs, trail games, mini races, and the occasional sugary bribe can be total game-changers in getting your kids excited about the task at hand and distracted from the boredom/ frustration/ fatigue/ add-your-feeling-here/ that they may otherwise be experiencing.

    One of our favorite hiking games is spotting the next trail blaze. We identify these early in the hike to emphasize trail safety and to keep us on track, but finding them also becomes a fun, ongoing challenge: who can spot the next blaze, can you jump up and touch it, how many have we found? This keeps them engaged in an activity AND keeps them moving in the right direction.

    Racing from blaze to blaze, shadow to shadow, or tree to tree also highlights their competitive sides and allows them to use their muscles differently than the trudge of a slow walk. 

    While I am a health-conscious mom, I have been known to say “Skittles make miles,” and I stand by it. Rewards, incentives, treats – call them what you want – they work! Whether it’s a Skittle after five more blazes, a snack at the next sitting log, or a promised reward at the destination, these little motivators create positive associations. Personally, my summits are always more satisfying when I savor a specific treat I saved for the top, so why not let your kids experience the same satisfaction?

    And do not underestimate the power of singing! It is a great way to keep minds busy and lift moods in the process. Dredge up those old Girl Scout tunes or call-and-repeat songs from childhood and put them to use! These boisterous sing-alongs will someday be among your kids’ favorite hiking memories.

    Tip #10: Don’t forget to Plan for the Drive Home

    Do you have little ones who still need an afternoon nap? Pack items that are ready to pull out once you start your return trip. I like to maximize our time on the trail, so we usually don’t head home until after we eat our picnic lunch. Then my girls settle into their car seats with a few naptime essentials – blankets, lovies, soothing music – to help them rest their bodies as we make our way back home.

    Start Small, Stay Consistent, Make It Fun

    If hiking with your kids is something you haven’t tried yet, but you have always wanted to, consider this your nudge! Start small, but start. Bring a friend- or four! (I even started a monthly Mama and Toddler Hiking Group!) Trying something new with other like-minded moms makes the experience more fun, helps keep you motivated, and gives you support when things get tough. It is also a fabulous way to get all of you and your kiddos outside – enjoying each other’s company and the great outdoors at the same time. 

    If you’re new to the trails, our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking with Kids covers everything you need to know to plan, prepare, and enjoy your first family hiking adventure.

    Although planning and executing a hike with your family can take some work, it is SO worth it, as you will see in the eyes of your children as their bodies and imaginations have the freedom to run wild. Try out these tips (plus any others that work for you) as you tackle each new trail. Make these moments and memories your own. I will see you out there!

    About the Author

    Courtney is a wife, mama to four fearless adventurers, and a physical therapist turned business owner. A runner, biker, hiker, camper, and backpacker, she thrives in the great outdoors and believes in its power — both for healing and for building community. She leads monthly Mama & Toddler hikes through North Carolina’s scenic trails but doesn’t hesitate to whisk her daughters away on spontaneous adventures, solo. Her travels, both near and far, have deepened her love for nature, and she finds endless joy in watching her girls discover the world with wide-eyed wonder. She credits their confidence and resilience (and her own) to time spent outside and enjoys encouraging families that childhood is best lived outdoors and that parenting is a little easier when you do!

    Follow Courtney on Instagram: @happytrailsandponytails

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE

    Exploring Petrified Forest National Park with Kids

    While most families planning a National Parks vacation to Arizona know about the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park is a lesser well-known site in the state. Don’t make the mistake of skipping past this natural treasure! This unique park contains a vast landscape of colorful petrified wood, ancient fossils, and local history. From hiking among preserved trees to learning about ancient cultures, there is something for all ages to enjoy at Petrified Forest National Park. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family, shares how your family can plan a geological adventure while exploring Petrified Forest National Park with kids. 

    History of Petrified National Park 

    The land where Petrified Forest National Park is located was once home to a diverse array of plants and animals in a lush forest. Over time, the forests were washed away by an ancient river and buried under sediment and volcanic ash. Minerals were absorbed into the porous wood over hundreds of thousands of years and crystallized within the cellular structure. Today, these colorful logs of petrified wood are made almost entirely of quartz crystals and sparkle in the sun. 

    The park land also bears remnants of many different cultures over time. Petroglyphs and the remains of Native American Settlements are preserved within the park boundaries and can be viewed from park trails. After the land was designated as a National Monument in 1906, an entrepreneur constructed an inn within the park in the 1920s to serve travelers in the area. This inn was remodeled and refurbished several times over the years and is still an icon of the park today. The history of many travelers over the years is also protected along a portion of the historic Route 66 roadway, which once passed through the park.

    Petrified Forest National Park

    Things to know before visiting Petrified Forest National Park

    Taking a family trip to Petrified Forest National Park promises an immersive journey through ancient landscapes and natural wonders. From marveling at the mesmerizing petrified wood to delving into the region’s rich paleontological history, there’s no shortage of excitement awaiting young adventurers and their guardians. However, with its vast expanse and diverse terrain, a successful trip with kids requires some careful planning and consideration. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a first-time explorer, here are some essential tips and insights to ensure your family’s visit to Petrified Forest National Park is as enriching as it is memorable.

    Entering Petrified Forest National Park

    Petrified Forest National Park is easily accessible from Interstate 40 across Arizona. The park has two entrances off the main road, a north entrance and a south entrance, connected by a 28-mile-long paved main park road. The northern part of the park features painted desert vistas, while the southern part contains the largest concentrations of petrified logs.

    While many National Parks are open 24 hours a day, that is not the case at Petrified Forest. To protect the petrified wood from being looted, the park is generally only open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closes for the night. The park is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Also note, that Arizona does not observe Daylight Savings and remains on Mountain Standard time year round. 

    Petrified Forest National Park fees and rules

    Petrified Forest National Park does not require timed reservations. However, it does require an entrance pass of $25 for personal vehicles. This pass is good for seven days, but you can easily see much of the park in a day. Interagency passes such as the American the Beautiful pass are also accepted. 

    The park was created to preserve the petrified wood, fossils, and artifacts found here. Please obey all the rules and do not remove any petrified wood or artifacts from the park. If you would like a piece of wood to take with you, you can purchase legally obtained petrified wood from the park’s gift shops or several stores outside the park’s south entrance. 

    Petrified Forest Arizona

    Best time of year to visit Petrified Forest NP

    Petrified Forest National Park is located in a semi-arid grassland with a wide swing of temperatures. Spring and fall are the most pleasant times to visit, with milder temperatures. Seasonally, wildflowers dot the park during the spring and summer seasons. The summer months can be very hot. While the climate is very dry, the temperatures in the summer can exceed 100° F with no shade. If you must visit in summer, try to visit earlier in the day if possible. 

    Blue Mesa Petrified Forest National Park

    What to pack for visiting Petrified Forest National Park

    While the park is located close to the interstate, it is still in a fairly remote area. Be sure to bring along all needed supplies, plenty of snacks, and water, especially for the hot and dry climate. The park’s elevation varies from 5,300 to 6,200 feet, so it is recommended to drink more water if you are visiting from lower elevations. The Painted Desert Inn and Painted Desert Visitor Center do offer a cafe and ice cream shop; however, hours can vary by season. 

    There are several hiking trails in the park where comfortable shoes are recommended. There is no shade, so a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are needed for protection. The park can be very windy, so a hat with a neck or chin strap is advised to avoid chasing a wind-blown hat down the trail. A first-aid kit is always a good idea to have on hand, especially with kids. There is only one road through the park so it is difficult to get lost, however, a good map of the area such as the park brochure can be helpful. 

    Petrified Forest National park

    Where to stay for visiting Petrified Forest

    Since Petrified Forest National Park is only open for day use, there are no lodging or campground options within the park. However, you can find campsites and hotels in the nearby towns of Holbrook or Winslow, Arizona. The town of Gallup, New Mexico, is another option for lodging.  

    Petrified Forest National Park kid-friendly hikes

    Most of the developed trails at Petrified Forest are short and fairly flat, making them suitable for all ages. There are even several paved trails suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Kids will enjoy viewing the unique and glittering petrified logs along many of the trails. Also, watch for roving park rangers and volunteers in areas like Puerco Pueblo and Crystal Forest for on-the-spot information, including show-and-tell items to share!

    Tawa Trail (1.2 miles each way)

    If you enter the park from the north entrance, Tawa is the first trail you will reach. This out-and-back trail starts at the Painted Desert Visitor Center and leads to the Tawa Point Overlook. It is flat and travels through a grassland area. 

    Painted Desert Rim Trail (0.5 mile each way)

    The Painted Desert hike is another out-and-back short trail. This unpaved path connects Tawa Point to the Painted Desert Inn and offers outstanding views of the colorful badlands of the painted desert.  

    Puerco Pueblo (0.3 mile loop)

    This short, paved loop trail showcases the ruins of a hundred-room pueblo occupied by the ancestral Puebloan people over 600 years ago. The south end of the trail overlooks viewpoints of several petroglyphs. Be sure to remain on the trail and do not touch the rock walls or petroglyphs. 

    Petrified Forest petroglyphs

    Blue Mesa (1.0 mile loop)

    If you only do one hike at Petrified Forest National Park, this should be it. This is my favorite hike inside the park. It is more rugged than other trails due to a steep climb back up to the trailhead, but the views of the blue mesa hills are amazing. The pathway is mostly paved, but too steep for a stroller. Use caution with kids on the upper level of the hike as the path is narrow, and there are drop-offs. The lower portion is a nice and flat loop, making it one of the best hikes for kids. 

    Blue Mesa Trail Petrified Forest National Park

    Blue Mesa Trail

    Crystal Forest (0.75 mile loop)

    The Crystal Forest trail is another short and easy loop that offers one of the best opportunities to view the petrified wood deposits. The crystal deposits in the wood definitely make the logs sparkle in the sun.

    crystal Forest trail Petrified Forest

    Giant Logs (0.4 mile loop)

    The Giant Logs loop is a popular trail located behind the Rainbow Forest Museum near the south entrance. This loop passes the largest and most colorful logs in the park. The log known as “Old Faithful” is almost 10 feet wide at the base!

    Giant Logs Trail

    Giant Logs trail

    Long Logs (1.6 mile loop)

    This longer trail offers views of one of the largest concentrations of petrified wood in the park. The first half mile is paved and suitable for strollers. After that the path is rougher with narrow turns. This trail leaves from a trailhead near the Rainbow Forest Museum and can be combined with the longer Agate House loop.

    Agate House (2 mile loop)

    The Agate House trail offers views of a small pueblo that archeologists believe was occupied for a short time about 700 years ago. This trail is a spur off of the Long Logs Trail. You can combine both loops together for a total 2.6 mile trek. Keep in mind there is no shade and this hike can be rough during the summer. 

    Additional activities at Petrified Forest National Park

    Even if you only have a brief time to visit or it is too hot for hiking, there are still several other activities for all ages to enjoy.

    Drive the park drive

    If you are limited in time, driving the park road takes about an hour. However, there are many viewpoints and stops along the way that are well worth the time. The northern part of the park offers several overlooks with sweeping views of the painted desert. The portion of the park road south of the interstate offers views of petrified wood, the Blue Mesa, and petroglyphs. 

    Petrified Forest National park scenic drive

    Take a tour (teens and adults)

    The National Park offers a service called Adventure With a Ranger in the backcountry of the Petrified Forest National Park. During these popular backcountry hikes, visitors get the opportunity to connect with scientists and park rangers. Many of these hikes are longer (3-8 miles) with more rugged terrain than some of the hikes listed above. Reservations are required. However, this is best for older kids (teens), as no children under 12 years of age are allowed. 

    Petrified Forest National Park drive

    Explore the Visitor Centers

    Petrified Forest features two visitor centers, one at each end of the park. The Painted Desert Visitor Center & Oasis is located at the north entrance just off the interstate. During our visit, there was construction around the site, but the center offers a bookstore, park information, cafe, gas station, and gift shop. Located near the south entrance of the park, the Rainbow Forest Center and Museum offers paleontological exhibits, park movie, gift shop, and visitor information. There is even an interactive exhibit for kids to “dig” for fossils. 

    Petrified Forest National Park Visitor Center

    Visit the historic Painted Desert Inn

    Near the north entrance of the park is the Painted Desert Inn. The original inn was constructed out of petrified wood in the 1920s and acted as a stop for tourists in the remote area. After being purchased by the park service, the Civilian Conservation Corps performed renovations and added an adobe facade in the 1930s. The inn continued to offer food and lodging to Route 66 travelers and was also owned by the Fred Harvey Company as a partnership to the Santa Fe Railroad. 

    Today, the inn serves as a museum. The walls showcase murals painted by a Hopi artist employed by the Fred Harvey Company. Displays inside highlight the history of the inn, Route 66, and the Civilian Conservation Corps. The inn has an ice cream parlor and restrooms. It also offers stunning views of the Painted Desert. 

    Painted Desert Inn

    See the remains of historic Route 66

    At the north end of the park, a small pull-off and parking lot are located next to a rusty 1932 Studebaker automobile. This car marks the site where the original Route 66 once passed through the park. You can view the roadbed and old telephone poles that trace the former highway’s path. Petrified Forest is the only national park that contains a portion of this well-known historic road. 

    Earn Junior Ranger badges

    Like other National Park Service sites, Petrified Forest National Park offers a Junior Ranger program for kids of all ages. Kids can pick up a junior ranger booklet at either visitor center to complete. 

    Petrified Forest National Park Visitor Center

    Locate geocaches

    We did not have time to look for any caches, but Petrified Forest contains traditional, virtual, and Earthcaches. Some of the caches in the park are part of the Historic Route 66 Geocache project. This could be a fun treasure hunt activity to keep kids excited about exploring the park.  

    Exploring Petrified Forest National Park with kids

    Exploring Petrified Forest National Park with kids is a wonderful way to introduce them to the wonders of nature and geology. The park offers a unique opportunity to view the beauty of ancient petrified trees and colorful badlands, as well as learn about the rich history of the area. With a variety of kid-friendly trails and activities, the whole family can connect with the natural world in a fun and educational way. Don’t speed past this scenic wonder, but stop and take the time for a rewarding and less crowded national park experience. 

    petrified forest national park painted desert

    Have you ever visited Petrified Forest National Park?

    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 her family’s most popular activity, 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

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, INFORMATION, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Hiking Havasupai With Kids

    Nestled within the heart of the Grand Canyon, is a breathtaking oasis that promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoorsy families. Famous for its vibrant turquoise waterfalls and stunning red rock formations, Havasupai is not only visually spectacular but is a testament to the resilience of the Havasupai people who have called this land home for centuries. Having recently embarked on an epic hiking and camping expedition in Havasupai with her family, Wendy Cox, photographer and mom of four, has conquered the challenging trails and gathered a wealth of practical advice to ensure a successful and memorable trip for families like yours. Wendy’s firsthand account is packed with expert tips and tricks for turning your Havasupai adventure into an enriching and enjoyable escapade for the entire family.

    Hiking Havasupai with kids

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

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

    What is Havasupai?

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

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

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

    Why visit Havasupai?

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

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

    When to hike Havasupai

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

    Accommodations in Havasupai

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

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

    Reservations at Havasupai

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

    Cancellations

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

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

    Additional resources

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

    Pack mule reservations

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Hiking the Supai Village trail

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

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

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

    Finding a campsite at Havasupai

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

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

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

    Mooney Falls

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

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

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

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

    Beaver Falls

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

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

    Bridges and ladders

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

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

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

    Footwear considerations for hiking in Havasupai

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

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

    Havasupai wildlife

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

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

    The Confluence

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

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

    Day three activities: rest, explore, and fry bread

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

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

    The hike out of Havasupai

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

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

    Hiking Havasupai with kids

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

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

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

    About the author

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

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

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, NATIONAL PARKS

    Exploring the Everglades National Park with Kids 

    In Everglades National Park, the wonders of Florida’s diverse ecosystem come to life! Today, Bethany Augliere, a Florida mom and marine biologist, is here sharing her personal insights, tips, and recommendations for an unforgettable family adventure in this magnificent wilderness. Navigating the Everglades with kids can be a thrilling and educationally-enriching experience, and in this post, we’ll provide valuable tips on when to visit, what to expect, the best kid-friendly hiking trails, what you can expect when encounting unique marine and wildlife, camping recommendations, and much more. Are you ready to discover the Everglades?!

    exploring everglades national park with kid - when to go, where to start, what to do, trails to hike and more

    Everglades National Park with kids

    As someone who lives in South Florida with two adventurous young kids, I know that the Sunshine State offers so much more to families than trips to theme parks, including 11 national parks. These public lands range from the gator-filled swamps of Big Cypress National Preserve to the well-intact remains of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. But, perhaps the most famous is the 1.5 million-acre subtropical wilderness (equivalent to the size of Delaware) of the Everglades National Park in South Florida — a personal favorite.

    The Everglades National Park is also an international treasure, a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. The Everglades is a massive park — the third largest in the lower 48 — and has so much to offer families. You can easily tailor your trip to meet the specific needs of your family, whether that includes a trek through a cypress swamp in a slough slog, kayaking the seagrass meadows of Florida Bay or an exhilarating airboat ride. 

    The Everglades is one of our favorite places for wildlife viewing and is home to iconic species like American alligators and roseate spoonbills to threatened animals, including the West Indian manatee and even American crocodiles. Yes, Florida even has crocodiles! The Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators co-existing. 

    exploring everglades national park with kids

    History of the Everglades

    The Everglades once covered 11,000 square miles of South Florida. 100 years ago, water flowed down the Kissimmee River into Lake Okeechobee, then south through the Everglades, and finally, into Florida Bay. The shallow. slow-moving water created the many habitats known in the Everglades, like ponds, sloughs, sawgrass marshes, and hardwood hammocks. While water in the Everglades is often referred to as swampy, the truth is, it’s more like a slow-flowing river. In fact, the Everglades were dubbed the River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 1947.

    Everything changed when early colonial settlers in the 1800s began to develop the region into farmland and communities. Developers dug canals to drain the wetlands. This alteration of the natural water flow in South Florida continued. In 1948, Congress authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a system of roads, canals, levees, and water-control structures stretching throughout South Florida to continue draining the wetlands. As a result, the Everglades are now 50% of what they once were. 

    The alteration of the wetlands—combined with increasing population—damaged the natural system. According to the National Park Service, with the support of many early conservationists, scientists, and other advocates, Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to conserve the natural landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and animals.

    American Crocodile in Flamingo, Everglades National Park

    Crocodile or alligator?

    As I mentioned above, the Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators. How do you tell the difference between crocodiles and alligators?

    Crocodiles have a pointer, v-shaped snout, while alligators have a rounder, u-shaped snout. Alligators are more numerous in Florida and typically found in freshwater, while the more rare and elusive crocodile prefers salty or brackish water, as well as freshwater.

    When an alligator has its mouth shut, only their upper teeth are visible. When a crocodile has its mouth shut, it shows off a toothy grin with both upper and lower teeth visible.

    Lastly, alligators have a darker, almost black color, while crocodiles tend to be a lighter tan color. 

    everglades with kid - crocodiles and alligators

    Things to know before you go – Everglades National Park

    Three main entry points exist for the park: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is closest to Naples and south of Everglades City, the Shark Valley area that can be accessed by US 41 (also known as the Tamiami Trail) and the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead — the park’s main headquarters. Personally, I’ve spent the most time exploring the Homestead entrance.

    The three entrances are not connected due to the swampy terrain of the park. Therefore, you won’t be able to enter the park in one region and drive through it to the others. They are also in different parts of the state. You’ll want to pick one region to explore in a day. As of right now, there is no advance reservation system needed to enter the park. 

    The Gulf Coast visitor access area serves as the gateway for exploring the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways that extends to Flamingo and Florida Bay accessible only by boat in this region. I’ve never explored this region of the park from this entrance, but it is on my list. The original Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. The temporary Visitor Contact Station was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Visitor services are limited. 

    All park visitors are required to pay an entrance fee, which is $35 per vehicle. You can also use an interagency annual pass to enter. Visitor centers and entrance stations have set operating hours, but the park remains open 24/7.

    things to know about everglades national park entrances

    When to visit Everglades National Park with kids

    South Florida has two main seasons: wet season (which runs from June through October), and dry season (which runs from November through May). The dry season is more popular due to lower and more comfortable temperatures, lessening of mosquitoes, and an abundance of wildlife.

    In the dry season, temperatures reach average highs of 77°F and lows of 53°F. Sometimes, strong cold fronts bring even chillier weather! 

    I have to warn you, in the summer, the bugs are bad — really bad. During cooler months, the insects such as mosquitoes and biting flies may still occur in some areas and at dusk and dawn. Come prepared with mosquito repellent, and maybe even head nets or bug jackets. 

    One thing about the dry season that makes for better wildlife viewing is lower water levels due to less rain. This means that the animals gather around water holes. There have been times when I’ve seen dozens of large alligators all in one small section of a trail. And during winter, the birdwatching is exceptional as many species fly south for warmer temperatures and breeding. In fact, the Everglades National Park is the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America, and it is a critical stopover habitat for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, such as the Yellow-throated Warbler. 

    when to visit everglades national park with kids - best time of year

    Everglades National Park nature trails for kids

    Hiking in the Everglades means you can explore a variety of habitats, from tree islands to swamps, sawgrass marsh, and wet prairie. Most hikes are short, interpretive, flat trails that are perfect for young kids, especially because you can often see a lot of wildlife. 

    At the start of the Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore, in the Homestead entrance, you can find two must-see trails, the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail. Additionally, Ranger-led walks and talks are conducted here, and the visitor station includes a small bookstore, restrooms, and vending machines.

    Kid-friendly hiking trails

    Anhinga Trail: This trail is one of my favorites and if you do nothing else in the Everglades, you should do this! It’s a short 0.8-mile loop on a paved path with a boardwalk over the water. It always has good wildlife viewing, like gators, turtles, osprey, anhinga, cormorants, purple gallinules, black vultures, snakes and more. On this trail (and all trails really) I recommend taking your time and observing the wildlife. You’ll see anhingas swimming in the water and popping up with their bill piercing a fish they then juggle to toss down their throats. After a dive, they’ll often jump up to a branch and spread out their wings to dry their feathers, since they lack the oil glands other birds have to stay dry. 

    Gumbo Limbo Trail:  This 0.4-mile trail winds through through dense forest. It includes views of the famous Gumbo Limbo, affectionally known as the tourist tree. Why? Because its peeling red bark looks like the skin of a sunburnt tourist! 

    Pinelands Trail: An easy 0.4-mile paved trail through a pine forest, one of the many habitats found in Everglades National Park.

    Mahogany Hammock Trail: This 0.5-mile boardwalk trail meanders through a dense, jungle-like hardwood hammock. Plants include gumbo-limbo trees, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree (Swietenia mahogani) in the United States. Because the park is so remote, this trail’s parking lot is one of the best to view the International Space Station if you take an evening star walk or drive,

    Pa-hay-okee Trail: This is a very easy .2-mile boardwalk loop where you can view the iconic sawgrass prairie. 

    Eco Pond Trail: This half-mile loop around a pond is great for bird watching. 

    Bobcat boardwalk: A short, easy 1-mile out and back trail through a sawgrass slough and hardwood forest. This trail is accessed at the Shark Valley entrance. 

    Otter Cave Hammock Trail: A 0.5-mile out-and-back rough limestone trail through a tropical hardwood forest with small footbridges over a small stream. Check at the Shark Valley Visitor Center for the current conditions of the trail; it sometimes can be flooded during the summer.

    Kayaking with kids in the Florida Everglades National Park

    Exploring Everglades via boat

    If you know anything about me, you know I love the water. In the Everglades, you can explore the water — both fresh and salt — in a variety of ways. One thing to note is that water levels vary drastically by season, and some trails can become dry and require carrying the canoe or kayak. The trails also vary from beginner to advanced, and can be as long or short as you want, depending on where you go. So, always check conditions before you head out, stay within your limits of paddling, and have a plan.

    Remember too, this is the home of crocodiles and alligators, which you will undoubtedly see. Keep a safe distance when observing the large reptiles— especially during breeding season when males are more active and territorial, and give lots of space to nesting mothers. 

    Kayaks and canoes

    You can bring your own kayak or canoe, and there are also two places to rent canoes and kayaks within the park, one in Flamingo at the Homestead entrance and the west side of the park at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. 

    Boat tours and airboats

    Flamingo also offers two 90-minute boat tour rides, one into the Everglades freshwater backcountry and another into Florida Bay. When it comes to taking boat tours with kids, I recommend bringing a lot of snacks and water to keep them occupied, especially if they are younger. Flamingo is one of the best places to see crocodiles and manatees, so be sure to spend some time walking around the marina. 

    Boat tour tickets may be purchased in the Marina Store. Visit http://www.flamingoeverglades.com or call (352) 701-6581 for more information. Boat tours of Whitewater Bay and Florida Bay depart from the Flamingo Marina located next to the Flamingo Visitor Center (38 miles into the park, 50 miles from Homestead, Fla). 

    I’ve only ever done one airboat ride in my life, and the one I went to fed marshmallows to wild alligators, which upset me. I’ve heard of other places where they feed and jump in with the human-habituated wild alligators. If you want to do an airboat tour, I recommend going with a company that is partnered with the National Park Service. They have a list of operators here. If you’ve never done an airboat ride, know that they are LOUD. I wouldn’t recommend it for a sensory sensitive child and for infants or toddlers, just make sure to request noise-cancelling headphones to protect their ears. The airboats are also fast and open, with no railings on the side. If you bring squirmy toddlers, be prepared to hold them tight. 

    Camping in Everglades National Park

    If you’re interested in camping, there are just campgrounds in the park: Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground. Both are accessible from the Homestead entrance and accommodate tents and RV’s with a limited number of group sites. You can make reservations with Everglades Guest Services or by calling 1-855-708-2207.

    The Flamingo campground, which is at the very end of the park — about 45-minutes from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center — offers solar-heated showers, two dump stations, picnic tables, grills, and an amphitheater for seasonal Ranger programs. And newly available are safari-style Eco tents, complete with fans and electricity (I haven’t tried these out yet, but they look nice)! 

    Long Pine Key campground is open seasonally November-May, and is just a few miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. This campground has cold showers, restrooms, a dump station, and a fill station.  

    Shark Valley tram and bike rentals

    If you’re headed to the Shark Valley entrance, the 15-mile path is best viewed via a 2-hour tram ride or bike ride (I don’t recommend walking it).  Halfway through the trail, there is a 45-foot high observation tower, a water fountain with a water bottle refill station, and restrooms. 

    The two short hikes great for walking and kids (mentioned above) can be started close to the visitor center, where you can also purchase tickets for the tram or rent bikes. If you have young kids, you can also request bikes with seat attachment for children up to 40 pounds. 

    If you decide to bike, note that there is virtually no shade on the path. Also, Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. Check the weather so you don’t get caught in a storm. Most of the thunderstorms occur during the mid to late afternoon hours, so the best riding times are in the morning when it’s still a little cooler.

    If you opt for the tram, the tour operator gives you lots of info about the Everglades, the animals, the history of the observation tower, and more. 

    Prices for the tram ride:

    • Adults (13-61) $31.00
    • Seniors (62+) $24.00
    • Children (3-12) $16.00

    Slough slog

    Most people wouldn’t dream of stepping foot off-trail and into the gator-infested waters of the Everglades. But that’s exactly what happens if you decide to take a slough slog. Unless you are going with someone who has gone before and knows what they are doing, I suggest doing this with the NPS ranger-led program,

    You’ll trek through a a sawgrass prairie before making your way into the shallow, swamp-like body of water of a cypress dome — a freshwater forested wetland that appears like a tree island. The name comes from the dome-like shape of treetops, formed by smaller trees growing on the edge where the water is shallow, while taller trees grow at the center in deeper water.

    During a slough slog, the water could get up to your waist at some points.  It’s quiet, peaceful (or maybe a bit nerve-wracking), and as you journey into the cypress trees covered in air plants, it feels like entering an entirely different world — like something out of a fantasy film. You might pass an alligator hole, hear the prehistoric call of a great blue heron, glimpse owls, snakes, tree frogs and more. Seriously, watch where you put your hand because mine has come a bit too-close-for-comfort to a resting cottonmouth. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to do in the Everglades and share with any willing friend who will join me! If you have younger kids, just check with rangers about water levels. 

    Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger program

    Like many US national parks, the Everglades has tons of ranger-led programs and walks, from guided hikes and bird-watching to slough slogs and guided paddles. 

    We love the Junior Ranger program at the National Parks and state parks when they have them, and have done them at several across the country. We recently even did a Junior Refuge Manager Program at the Arthur M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in South Florida, which was new to us. I highly recommend doing this as an activity during your trip.

    The Everglades provides an online digital copy of the booklet you can request as well, and free coloring pages are provided on the website. 

    Robert is Here is fruit stand

    Robert is Here fruit stand

    As a side note, if you’re going to the Homestead entrance, a stop at the Robert is Here Fruit Stand is a must. The fruit stand is family-owned and operated and specializes in rare and exotic fruits and vegetables, like canistel, guava, dragon fruit, sapodilla, and mamey, mostly grown right on the farm. Every day, the staff hand-cuts the fruit for their smoothies and milkshakes. I personally love the key lime milkshake or any smoothies with guava and passionfruit. 

    Have you ever been to Everglades National Park? 

    About the author

    Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.

    You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wilder_seas
    Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
    Website: http://www.bethanyaugliere.com
    RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

  • CAMP, CANOE/KAYAK, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Exploring Banff National Park with Kids

    If you’re looking for a kid-friendly vacation full of stunning turquoise glacial lakes, rocky peaks, wildlife, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails, Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, is the perfect location. You can easily spend a week here (try to plan at least three solid days), and you will meet families from all around the world, taking even longer to soak up the gorgeous scenery. Today, writer, editor, and Kansas City mom of two, Sarah Boles, is here sharing travel tips, outdoor activity advice, and all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Banff National Park with kids. 

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

    Banff with Kids

    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.

    Bow River Pathway in Calgary
    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.

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

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

    Tunnel Mountain perfect hike for kids in Banff
    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.

    Rainbow Bridge in Banff
    PC: Sarah Boles
    Kids love to cross the Bow River on the rainbow pedestrian bridge in Banff.
    Perfect picnic spot with kids along the Bow River 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.
    Bow River Falls in Banff
    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.

    Canoe Moraine Lake with your kids
    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.

    Take Roam Transit to Lake Louise with your kids
    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.

    Family photo at Lake Louise in Banff
    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).

    Parks Canada shuttle between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in Banff.
    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.

    Canoe Moraine Lake with Kids
    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.

    Kids rest on a bench on the Lakeshore Trail at Moraine Lake in Banff.
    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.
    The Rockpile at Moraine Lake in Banff
    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.
    Larch Valley hike with kids in Banff.
    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.

    Elk + Avenue hotel in Banff is a great place to stay with kids.
    PC: Sarah Boles
    Elk + Avenue hotel in Banff has tons of comfortable spaces to relax when your kids need downtime.
    Loft rooms at Elk + Avenue are perfect for kids.
    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.

    The Mount Royale hotel sits in the heart of Banff Avenue with epic views in every direction.
    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.
    Rooftop hot tub and lounge at Mount Royale hotel in Banff.
    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.

    The Fairmont Banff Springs towers above the river valley in Banff.
    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. 

    Brazen in Banff serves up delicious ginger beef and other unique plates.
    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.
    A kid's meal at Brazen serves ice cream cookies with its kid's meals in Banff.
    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.
    Banff has plenty of ice cream and dessert options for kids all over town.
    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.

    The best place to buy souvenirs for your kids in Banff is Big Bear.
    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.

    Roam Transit buses make getting around Banff easy with kids.
    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.

    Lake Minnewanka boat cruise in Banff
    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.
    Lake Minnewanka boat cruise with older kids
    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.
    Kids enjoy the views while hiking in Banff
    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

  • FALL, FARM, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PHOTOGRAPHY

    Must-Have Photos to Capture this Fall

    With fall in full swing, it’s time to get outside and enjoy all the activities that make this season so special! Fall brings temperatures that are perfect for outdoor adventuring as well as holidays that make our time outside so much more special. Documenting these special moments gives us something to look back on that allows us to relive our favorite fall memories. Today, Crystal Sanchez, professional photographer and mom of two is sharing a list of must-have photos to capture this fall, as well as some helpful tips to make your fall images stand out.

    Must-have photos to capture this fall

    As the leaves turn brilliant shades of crimson and gold and the air gets crisp, there’s no denying that fall is a season like no other. For outdoorsy moms, this is the perfect time to get outside with your family. But beyond fall color hikes and cozy campfires, there’s another opportunity that awaits you during this season: taking photos!

    Capturing the essence of your little ones (and this gorgeous season) through the lens of your camera (or phone) is a must for many parents. Fall offers a unique (and beautiful!) backdrop for your kids to shine, and I’m here to guide you through the must-take photos that will become cherished memories for years to come.

    Today, we’ll jump headfirst into a giant leaf pile of reasons why fall is such an incredible time of year for outdoor photos of your children. From the kaleidoscope of autumn colors to the playfulness of  pumpkin patches and the warmth of family gatherings, we’ll explore the many ways this season provides a stunning canvas for your kids to express their spirit and create unforgettable moments. So, grab your camera, bundle up your little adventurers, and let’s embark on a photographic journey through the magic of the season. Here is my list of all the must-have photos to capture this fall. 

    1. Farms

    We visit our local farms every year (multiple times a year, actually). One thing that is a must with each visit is seeing and saying hello to all of our furry and feathered farm friends. When it comes to photographing these experiences at the farm, there are so many fun angles that you can take. I love to pull back and capture photos of the kids and animals from a distance to include features of the farm, like the barn. I also love a good overhead shot that includes a nice close-up of children closely interacting with the animals.

    2. Hayrides

    Some of my favorite fall memories from my childhood include hayrides to the pumpkin patch. Traditional hayrides aren’t quite as popular where I live, but many farms still have tractor rides (without the hay…achoo!).

    The ideal time to capture a hayride experience is once you board the wagon. This way, you can capture your child’s initial excitement as well as be able to hold that camera more steady. I like to use my 35mm or 24mm lenses for these shots because they allow me to capture photos of my kids while remaining close to them. When the wagon is a bit empty, I like to sit all the way in the back or all the way in the front of the wagon to include more of the wagon and tractor in the background of my photos. In late fall, our local farm decorates their wagons with lights to create an even more magical experience!

    3. Corn maze

    Another one of our favorite things to do at the farm is exploring the corn maze. I love documenting my children as they explore the maze. For these photos, I prefer using mid-range lenses like my 85mm lens. To add more layers to your images, you can try standing behind some of the corn to allow some of it to sit in the foreground of your images.

    4. Pumpkin patch 

    It’s not fall without a visit to the pumpkin patch! As your child explores and searches for a pumpkin, try to stay a little behind and capture photos of them walking through the fields. Then when they have found the perfect pumpkin, come in closer for those details shots. Photograph your little ones trying to carry a pumpkin too heavy for them, or a photo of their proud faces while holding “the best” pumpkin in the patch.

    5. Sunflowers 

    Exploring the sunflower fields is always on our list of things to do in early fall. These fields make for a great backdrop for photos and are so fun to run through. I prefer to use my 85mm or 135mm lenses when photographing my kids in the fields to help get a dreamy look. Look out for moments of little ones trying to reach for the tallest flowers, running through the fields, or smelling these large beauties. 

    These are such popular photos that we have an entire post on how to take photos of your family at the sunflower field. 

    6. Apple picking

    Exploring apple orchards with children can be a really fun and educational experience. Not only do children get to learn about where their food comes from, but they also get to enjoy fresh nutritious snacks during and after their visit. When photographing my children at an orchard, I prefer to choose areas with red apples to add that pop of color to my photos. To add more layers to the images, I will position myself in an area where branches from a nearby tree can hang in the foreground of my images. 

    Here’s another great post filled with tips on apple picking with kids. 

    7. Pumpkin carving

    Pumpkin carving is an activity enjoyed by both kids and adults. Take advantage of a crisp afternoon to transform your pumpkins into fun and spooky jack-o-lanterns. Be sure to document your kids’ expressions as they carve their own pumpkins. For extra fun, take a photo at night of your pumpkin lit up by candlelight! 

    8. Foliage

    One of my favorite things about fall is the beautiful display of bright reds, oranges, yellows, and greens among the trees. When photographing the foliage, it’s best to wait until the leaves are at their peak for color. This can vary by location. I like to choose locations where there are bright-colored trees in the foreground and the background. While my children are happily exploring this area, I typically just stand far away from them and try to capture as much of our surroundings as possible. 

    9. Leaves

    A colorful landscape typically means colorful leaves are in abundance. There are many fun ways to photograph leaves. You can create a huge pile of them and capture fun photos of your child playing in the leaves. An overhead shot of your child lying down on them could also make for a great portrait. One of our favorite ways to photograph leaves is to find a large one and play peek-a-boo with it. 

    10. Fall treasures

    My children collect treasures year-round. Fall brings in an abundance of different seeds, fruits, and mushrooms. On a short walk, we can easily fill a small basket with a good variety of different items. Then our favorite part is identifying what we found afterward. Photographing these sorts of details could be as simple as pointing the camera into your basket and taking a shot. Or you can dump it all out and take a good overhead shot of everything.

    11. Fall bike ride

    In early fall, we love hopping on our bikes and going for rides through our local trails. By this time, the summer heat has gone, but it’s still not too cold for longer rides. When I’m documenting our fall rides, I try to find trails with lots of colors within the bushes. I also try to dress my kids in bright colors to make them pop more amongst the greens and browns.

    12. Fall hikes

    We get out and hike year-round, but the fall is by far my favorite time to hike. When I’m documenting our hikes, I like identifying what landmarks and plant life are unique to that particular hike and then challenging myself to incorporate those things into a photo. I think all lenses work for hikes, but I definitely prefer my 135mm lens for most photos. If I’m hoping to capture as much of the forest as possible, then I will go for a wider lens. 

    Here’s another great resource with fantastic tips for photographing family hikes. 

    13. Lakeside

    While fishing and water sports aren’t quite as popular in the fall, we still visit our local lakes often in the fall. My favorite thing about taking photos by the lake is that you sort of get double the amount of foliage in your images due to the reflection from the water. But even after the leaves drop, we still visit our local lakes for some fun in the sand. While the trees are bare, we still find lots of pops of color amongst the stacks of canoes and kayaks by our local lake.

    14. Mountains

    If you live near a mountain range, planning a hike up or near the mountains is a must for fall. Not only is it an enjoyable activity for the entire family, but the views are breathtaking at the top. If you can plan for a day when the leaves are at their peaks, you will not be disappointed. 

    15. Fall sports

    Many kids play sports such as football, baseball, or soccer in the fall. We look forward to fall sports, and I try really hard to make sure that I am capturing these moments every year. It’s nice to look back on these images to see just how much they’ve grown. Also, don’t forget to document spectating siblings during these games and practices.

    16. Cozy attire

    As the temperatures begin to drop and warmer clothing comes out, don’t forget to document those little details. A warm hat, glove, furry jackets, long, cozy socks, and boots all add a sense to fall warmth to a photo. 

    17. Campfires

    On those cool fall evenings, campfires are a must. Whether we are out camping or just hanging out in our backyard, we yearn for the warmth it provides. The next time your family gathers around a warm fire be sure to document those moments. 

    18. Playground fun

    The fall is our favorite time to visit the playground. While I don’t always bring my camera with me to the playground, I’ve never regretted the times that I have. I try to challenge myself to find unique angles and perspectives in the playground. For the second photo below, I sat on top of the highest part of the playground equipment and used my widest lens to capture my son as he climbed the steps prior to going down the slide.

    19. Costumes

    As we inch our way closer to Halloween, I try to set aside an evening to photograph my kids in their costumes for the year. My go-to lens for these sorts of images is usually my 135mm lens since I want my subject to stand out a bit more against the background. 

    20. Trick or treating

    My kids are obsessed with Halloween, so trick-or-treating is something that they look forward to doing every year. If trick or treating is something your family enjoys doing, definitely bring your camera along the next time you go to document this exciting day. 

    21. Tree farms

    Many families will visit tree farms soon after Thanksgiving Day to pick up their Christmas trees. And while this may have a “wintery” feeling, it’s technically still fall, so be sure to bring your camera along to document this moment. 

    22. Holiday lights

    My absolute favorite thing to photograph in late fall are all the holiday lights. Everywhere we go is decked out with lights galore. Drive-thru light displays are a must for us during the holidays. Not only are they a great way to kick off the holiday season, but they also make for great photo opportunities. I love capturing my children’s expressions as they marvel at the huge display of lights. I captured the image below by sitting on the window ledge on the passenger side and then using the widest lens I own which is my 24mm lens. 

    The following two images were taken at a farm and our nearby zoo. Low-light images, such as these, can be tricky, but if you place your subject in a well-lit spot and bump up the ISO on your camera, you too could recreate these sorts of images.

    Favorite fall memories

    As we wrap up our exploration of the must-take photos for fun fall activities and share some invaluable photography tips, one thing is clear – the autumn season offers an abundance of opportunities for capturing the essence of your children’s outdoor adventures. With every leaf that rustles beneath their feet, every pumpkin they pick, and every smile that brightens their faces, you have a chance to freeze those precious moments in time.

    Remember to embrace the natural beauty of fall as your backdrop, and let your kids be themselves. Encourage their creativity and curiosity to shine through your lens. The candid shots of joy and wonder, the playful interactions, and the vibrant colors of the season all come together to tell a heartwarming story.

    Whether you’re enjoying a hayride, hiking in the woods, or carving pumpkins, these photos will serve as cherished memories that you and your children will look back on with fondness. So, don’t forget to capture these moments and create a visual narrative that celebrates the magic of fall, the love of family, and the spirit of adventure. Happy photographing, and may your autumn be filled with beauty, laughter, and unforgettable images!

    What’s your favorite fall activity to photograph?

    About the author

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

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

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Southern Idaho Outdoor Family Adventures

    Southern Idaho is such a beautiful family-friendly location with so many different outdoor adventures to be had. It’s also a great place to visit and explore any time of year! From chasing waterfalls, exploring the beautiful canyons, and hiking through forests, there are so many outdoor adventures to do in Southern Idaho as a family. India Tate, mom of two, outdoor adventurer, and founder of Our Wanderlust Life, visited Southern Idaho in the late spring with her kids and is here to share her recommendations for your next vacation to this beautiful part of the country. 

    Southern Idaho Outdoor Adventures

    Southern Idaho with kids

    Nestled in the heart of the Gem State, Southern Idaho and the charming Idaho Falls area, offer an abundance of unforgettable outdoor adventures for families. From the rugged mountains to the pristine lakes and the unique geological marvels, this region is a diverse playground for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

    Two hours south of Boise is an adventure-filled area of Idaho. Twin Falls, Idaho, is in Southern Idaho, and it’s filled with many gems. Whether it’s hiking through stunning canyons, experiencing the thrill of waterfalls, or immersing yourselves in the rich history of the area, Southern Idaho promises to be a destination that will create memories to last a lifetime.

    If Idaho hasn’t been on your list of places to visit, you should change that! It is truly worth a visit! There are many outdoor adventures to enjoy as a family, so join us as we uncover the natural gems and the family fun that make Southern Idaho a top choice for your next unforgettable family getaway. Let’s get started!

    Balanced Rock Park in Southern Idaho

    Outdoor adventures in Southern Idaho

    Southern Idaho is a truly unique and compelling destination for families seeking to explore wildlife, embark on outdoor adventures, and reconnect with nature. What sets this region apart is its remarkable diversity of landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the winding rivers that carve through deep canyons and the high desert plains that stretch as far as the eye can see, Southern Idaho is a geographical marvel that offers something for every outdoor enthusiast.

    In addition to its stunning scenery, Southern Idaho boasts an array of outdoor activities perfectly suited for families. Whether you’re kayaking on the Snake River, hiking along the scenic trails of the Targhee National Forest, or casting a fishing line into one of the many crystal-clear lakes, you’ll find adventures that cater to all ages and skill levels.

    The region’s numerous parks, nature reserves, and recreational areas provide great camping, picnicking, and stargazing. This unique blend of landscapes and outdoor activities makes Southern Idaho such a great destination for reconnecting with loved ones and nature, leaving families with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

    Box Canyon State Park & Nature Preserve

    Box Canyon is a beautiful place to explore with your family. It is the 11th largest spring in North America and is not to be missed! You can take in the view of the Canyon from the overlook or walk the trail that leads you down into the Canyon.

    Once you get to the base of the Canyon there will be a noticeable trail. You will then follow that trail to a 20-foot waterfall. From there, you will continue to the swimming hole! With any Canyon, be mindful of the weather in the forecast if going to the base of the Canyon is your plan. Also, note that there is a $7 vehicle fee to be paid in the parking lot once you arrive. 

    The best part about exploring Box Canyon is you can spend a whole day or even a few hours here with your family. We loved exploring the area – it was so different than the terrain we’re used to back home. And even if you’re not up for much hiking, you can easily find a spot at the base of the canyon and spend the day relaxing and enjoying the pools. 

    Overlooking Box Canyon State Park and Nature Preserve

    Snake River Canyon

    The Snake River carves a deep and rugged canyon through the heart of Southern Idaho, creating a landscape that is nothing short of breathtaking. The stunning Snake River Canyon stretches east and west of Twin Falls.

    One of the standout features of the Snake River Canyon is the Perrine Bridge, a magnificent structure that spans the chasm and offers panoramic views of the canyon, the river, and the distant Blue Lakes. When you arrive in Twin Falls, from Boise you will cross over the Perrine Bridge and be able to see the canyon from either direction.

    Along the Canyon are paved walking paths along the south rim of the canyon. Walking along the path will provide you with access to Shoshone Falls (see below) and even the Twin Falls Visitor Center. Snake River Canyon runs for 50 miles, so you can admire it from many viewpoints. Just south of the bridge is an amazing lookout point of the Canyon. 

    For families, this vantage point is an excellent spot for observing the region’s diverse birdlife, and you may even catch sight of the peregrine falcons that call the canyon home. Exploring the canyon with your kids not only brings the wonder of geology to life but also instills a deep appreciation for the remarkable forces of nature that shaped this unique landscape. It’s an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to inspire their young ones with the beauty and grandeur of the natural world.

    Overlooking Snake Rive Canyon

    Perrine Coulee Falls 

    Perrine Coulee Falls is one of Southern Idaho’s most picturesque and accessible waterfalls, and a must-see!

    Nestled within the Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls, this hidden gem is quite the spectacle as the waters of the Snake River cascade over a series of basalt cliffs, creating a curtain of white mist.

    This roadside waterfall is easy to access all year long, AND you can walk up under it! Who doesn’t love a waterfall you can walk up under?!

    A short hike along the scenic Perrine Coulee Falls Trail provides an up-close encounter with this hidden marvel, which is easily enjoyed by hikers of all ages. To reach the falls, you will take the road that leads towards Centennial Waterfront Park. Perrine Coulee runs year-round, which is why you can see this beauty in any season. Visiting the Falls is a quick and fun activity for the whole family to enjoy. 

    Walking under Perrine Coulee Falls in Southern Idaho

    Balanced Rock and Balanced Rock Park

    Balanced Rock and Balanced Rock Park are a bit out of the way from Twin Falls in Southern Idaho, but still worth the trip.

    Located within the City of Rocks National Reserve, this iconic geological formation is a colossal, gravity-defying boulder precariously balanced atop a slender pedestal of rock. As you stand in awe of the rock, you’ll be immersed in a surreal, otherworldly landscape where enormous granite monoliths and rugged spires rise from the high desert terrain.

    To reach the top of Balanced Rock requires a short hike up a steep hill. If you have younger kids (4-5) and they are used to hiking, this hill should not be a problem to access for you. To reach the mushroom-shaped rock, walk along the grassy path vs the rocky one. As you get higher, it can get a little slippery along the rocky path, so use caution when trying to reach the top.

    The opportunity to witness Balanced Rock’s mysterious equilibrium is a true testament to the awesome forces of nature (seriously, how did this even happen?). Across the street at Balanced Rock Park, you will find a small creek, a couple of swings, picnic tables to enjoy lunch, and a grass field to enjoy during your adventure. 

    Balanced Rock In Southern Idaho

    Shoshone Falls 

    The iconic Shoshone Falls in Southern Idaho is another absolute must-see! Often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” this remarkable awe-inspiring waterfall, with its thundering cascade of water, stands as one of the largest in the United States, even rivaling its eastern counterpart, Niagara Falls, in terms of height.

    The grandeur of Shoshone Falls is complemented by its serene surroundings, providing an ideal setting for families to explore the wonders of nature. With well-maintained viewing areas and gentle hiking trails, children can safely discover the beauty of the falls, observe the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area, and gain an appreciation for the geological forces that shaped this breathtaking landscape. 

    During the spring time they have an annual event called Shoshone Falls After Dark, which runs from the end of April through early May and is about 20-30 min long. Filled with music and flashy lights, this event lets the waterfall come alive at night and is a true crowd-pleaser! Because it’s a light show and won’t start until it gets dark, it may be better suited for older kids. In order to attend this event, you must purchase your tickets ahead of time.

    Shoshone Falls in Southern Idaho

    City of Rocks

    City of Rocks is another hidden gem in Southern Idaho. It’s a geological masterpiece with a surreal landscape where massive granite monoliths, spires, and balancing rocks rise from the high desert terrain, creating an outdoor wonderland for explorers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. The views are incredible; there are a number of hikes to explore and many rocks the kids can climb. This is also a popular place to watch professional climbers. If you enjoy camping, you can also camp in this park.

    Coming from Twin Falls, you want to be sure to take the route that leads you to the visitor center, so you can grab a map and have the rangers share unique facts about the park. 

    If you get a chance to add this gem to your itinerary and get hungry, definitely stop by the Lunchroom! The Lunchroom was once an old school that the owners have now turned into a lunch spot for the town and passersby. It’s such a unique place, and their story is so beautiful.  

    City of Rocks in Southern Idaho

    City of Rocks in Southern Idaho

    Lemon Falls 

    Lemon Falls is another beautiful waterfall in Southern Idaho. This lesser-known gem, tucked away within the heart of the region, is a picturesque waterfall nestled amidst lush, green surroundings. These falls are part of Thousand Springs State Park. You will reach them by taking the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway and then a short hike to the falls. When the weather is nice, you can swim and even kayak in the springs that the waterfall runs into.

    Lemon Falls in Southern Idaho

    Indoor adventures in Southern Idaho 

    Gemstone Climbing Center 

    Want to switch it up and do an indoor activity? Head over to Gemstone Climbing Center. It’s perfect for beginners and pros alike. They have a number of climbing walls, a kid wall with a slide, and even a section to belay (you must be certified to do this). The climbing center is perfect for rainy days or even those days where you want to take a break from all the outdoor adventure and stay in town. If your child is under 7 years old, they are FREE with the purchase of an adult pass. This is a plus if you have younger kids! 

    Southern Idaho Adventure - Indoor rock climbing

    Southern Idaho Adventure - Indoor rock climbing

    Other active indoor options

    If climbing isn’t your thing, there are other indoor activities in Twin Falls, such as axe throwing and indoor golf! Elevation Trampoline Park offers a variety of trampoline-based activities, including dodgeball, foam pits, and basketball dunk zones. The Idaho Falls Recreation Center has an indoor swimming pool that’s great for kids. Pinz is a popular bowling alley in Idaho Falls where kids can enjoy some friendly competition. During the winter months, Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena is a great place for kids to learn or practice ice skating. Some rinks offer skate rental services. Also, there are some great museums, such as the Idaho Potato Museum and the Museum of Idaho, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that can keep kids engaged and moving.

    Exploring the Idaho Falls area with kids

    In the Idaho Falls area, the possibilities for outdoor adventures with kids seem endless. From the majestic Shoshone Falls to the enchanting City of Rocks, the region beckons families to discover the natural wonders that make Idaho a true gem. A trip to this area will not only create cherished memories but also instill in children a deep respect for the environment and a sense of wonder that can last a lifetime.

    These adventures don’t even scratch the surface, but I hope they’re a great starting point for you to plan your trip to Southern Idaho. The area promises a journey of exploration, adventure, and endless bonding amidst the breathtaking beauty of Southern Idaho. Whatever you choose to do on your trip to Southern Idaho, there is something for everyone. 

    Are you ready to plan your next trip to Southern Idaho?

    About the author

    India is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, blogger, and travel photographer. She is also a single mom to two young boys (ages 6  & 4). India and her boys currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, where she grew up, and are always out exploring, whether that be camping, hiking, backpacking, and so much more. She loves taking road trips and traveling with her boys to new places at a moment’s notice and is grateful to be able to share this love of adventure with her kids.

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

  • BEACH, CAMP, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Best Kid-Friendly Beach Backpacking Locations on the Olympic Peninsula

    If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience for your family, the Olympic Peninsula is an absolute treasure trove of natural wonders just waiting to be explored. Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Washington State, this enchanting region offers some of the best kid-friendly beach backpacking locations, where both children and adults can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while creating lasting memories.

    Today, Washington mama of two, Teri Walzenbach, will take you on a virtual journey to discover the hidden gems of the Olympic Peninsula’s coastline. From towering sea stacks to mesmerizing tide pools teeming with marine life, she unveils the top three beaches where you and your little adventurers can embark on an unforgettable backpacking expedition. Whether your family is seeking tranquility, wildlife encounters, or thrilling outdoor activities, the Olympic Peninsula has something to offer for every taste and preference.

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Beach camping with kids on the Olympic Peninsula

    Have you ever wondered what it would be like beach camping with kids on the gorgeous shores of the Olympic Peninsula on the Washington Coast?

    Backpacking on the beach with kids can be a magical experience. Imagine, the sand is so soft you don’t really need a mattress. The vast ocean in front of you with the sound of the waves crashing. A bonfire on the beach where your kids are roasting marshmallows. And a driftwood playground that has your kids climbing for hours.

    Sound amazing? It is! Although, I understand that planning a backpacking trip to the beach be overwhelming. What beach do you choose? What permits do you need? How can I prepare for the tides? And, of course, packing. I was there once, too, but after years (and countless backpacking trips), I am here to help you break it down, and share three great beaches on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State that are a great place to start.

    Let’s make backpacking on the beach with kids a reality! You got this. 

    Know before you go: tide schedule

    One of the most important things to know when camping/sleeping/playing on the beach is the tide schedule. Some beaches have campsites set up off the beach in the woods, but others don’t and you can set up your tent very close to the water. Understanding when the tide will rise and how high will help put you at ease and keep you safe (and dry).

    I can tell you firsthand that when the tide is high in the middle of the night, it can be a little unsettling to sleep. The waves seem to get louder and louder and closer and closer. We’ve seen campers run off the beach with their wet tents, and it wasn’t pretty. But, don’t worry! With a little understanding of the tides, you can avoid any issues!

    There are 5 simple steps to looking up tide information.

    1. Find a tide table for the location where you’ll be camping.
    2. Locate the date of your trip.
    3. Understand the chart datum (a plane of reference to where the tidal heights are measured).
    4. Find the high and the low tide info. 
    5. Note the time.

    If you need some help understanding the ins and outs, take a look at this great article, “How to Read a Tide Table” by REI. 

    And this doesn’t just help keep you dry in the high tide…you also wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring all the goodies you find on the beach at low tide. It is one of the best parts of the rocky PNW beaches. Endless hours of fascinating exploration of tiny (and not-so-tiny) creatures! This could quite possibly be the number one reason to backpack on the beach with kids!

    Tide Pools on the Beach

    What (if any) permits do you need to backpack/camp on Olympic beaches?

    To backpack on the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula, you will need a permit. You can reserve your permit at Recreation.gov.  You can find the permit under the Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit.

    For the beaches, look under the tabs listed as North Coast and South Coast and go from there. You will need to enter your dates and party size in order to access the various beaches. I recommend booking early in the season as they can book up.

    Some of the beaches on the Olympic Coast are on the land of the Makah Tribe and require a separate Makah Tribe Recreational Permit, in addition to the permit you pick up on recreation.gov. There is more information on this permit, including where you can pick one up, on this Neah Bay website. 

    permits needed to backpack on the beach

    Can you have a fire on the beach?

    A bonfire on the beach? Yes, please!

    But the best part about this is that you don’t need to bring your own firewood. You can burn driftwood! And there is plenty of it! My kids love to comb the beach for kindling and help build the fire. It’s a great activity to do all together (here’s how to teach your kids how to build a fire and fire safety tips). I recommend bringing a small handsaw to help cut some of the larger pieces. Just collect some rocks, make a fire ring, and have at it. Don’t forget to pack waterproof matches. Bring fixings to make S’mores, and dessert is covered! If the kids get their clothes wet, the fire helps speed up the drying process. It’s a win-win-win. 

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Other essentials for backpacking on the beach with kids

    Definitely bring a bear canister. Not just for the bears but for the raccoons as well.  It is a requirement in Washington on the Olympic Peninsula. I love to use a bear canister because it comes in handy on the beach.  It can also second as a seat or clean surface to work on, which is very much appreciated on the beach. Another option is hanging bags in trees. If you go this route, make sure to hang the bag properly. I have seen them hanging against a tree. This is basically a hanging snack for bears! 

    Make sure to bring plenty of water and a water filter. Some beaches have freshwater creeks that flow down all the way to the beach and feed into the ocean. I recommend looking at a map to see if this is available. Also note how far the water access might be from where you plan to set up camp. Two out of three of the beaches on this list have fresh water access. 

    And if you plan to camp up in the trees on the shore of the beach, a hammock can come in handy. We brought ours along on one trip and I couldn’t get my kids out of it. Fun entertainment for hours!

    And please remember to always pack out whatever you pack in.

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Some tips for a successful backpacking trip with kids

    Sand sand everywhere

    Remember I said that camping on the beach with your kids is a magical experience? I still stand by it, but there is one downfall, depending on how you look at it…the sand. Be prepared for the sand to be everywhere. Stuck to everything. There’s no way around it, so I recommend just trying to embrace it. It’s too stressful to fight it. Just come to terms with the fact that you will be finding sand in all sorts of places for weeks. Especially in your washer and dryer. 

    Keep it close when getting started

    If you are just getting into backpacking, keep the approach (how far you hike to your location) on the shorter side. For us, in the beginning, this was really important. My kids have hiked a lot, but carrying a bigger pack was something new for them. And this way, there is no stressing to get to your destination if you’re running a little behind schedule or want to take your time on the trail! Also, if you forget something in the car, you can always run back and grab it if you’re close. We had this happen once, and it saved our trip!

    Make a list, check it twice

    I highly recommend making a list and keeping it updated over time as you can. I have a backpacking essentials checklist that I always use when packing for a trip. It’s a great way to make sure you have everything you need. Each time I come back from a trip, I think about all the lessons learned and modify the checklist if needed. It’s amazing what each new trip teaches you! 

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Top 3 Olympic Peninsula beaches to backpack to with kids

    Ok, ready for the fun part?! Let’s explore the best backpacking beaches on the Olympic Peninsula! As we explore these kid-friendly beach backpacking locations, I’ll provide some valuable tips and insights to help you plan and prepare for your expedition. As a mom, I understand the importance of safety, comfort, and educational opportunities, so I’ll guide you on how to make the most of your time in this natural playground while ensuring a seamless experience for the whole family.

    So, get ready to strap on your backpacks, lace up your hiking boots, and embrace the sense of wonder that comes with exploring the Olympic Peninsula’s stunning coastal landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a family new to the joys of outdoor adventures, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to embark on an unforgettable journey with your loved ones. Let’s dive into the wonders of the Olympic Peninsula and create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    1. Rialto Beach

    It’s hard to beat Rialto Beach! Rialto Beach, a jewel nestled on the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, offers an awe-inspiring blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and remarkable landscapes. Located within Olympic National Park, this iconic beach is a haven for families seeking a kid-friendly backpacking experience like no other. With its dramatic sea stacks, vast stretches of sandy shoreline, and an abundance of tide pools to explore, Rialto Beach presents an enchanting playground for young adventurers. Plus, a large amount of driftwood can make for some epic beach bonfires. 

    One of the defining features of Rialto Beach is its breathtaking sea stacks. These towering rock formations rise majestically from the ocean, creating a surreal backdrop against the crashing waves. Moreover, the beach is known for its remarkable tide pools, teeming with vibrant sea anemones, colorful starfish, and countless other marine creatures. Exploring these tide pools at low tide allows young explorers to witness the fascinating interplay between land and sea, sparking their curiosity about the wonders of the natural world.

    Beyond its natural allure, Rialto Beach is steeped in rich history. The area was once inhabited by the Quileute tribe, who have lived on the Olympic Peninsula for thousands of years. The Quileute people have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to this land, and their stories and traditions are woven into the fabric of the beach’s history. As families hike along the shoreline, they can engage with the Quileute’s cultural heritage, learning about their traditional practices, legends, and the significance of Rialto Beach in their ancestral narratives. It’s an opportunity for children to gain a deeper appreciation for indigenous cultures and the importance of preserving and respecting the natural environment.

    Backpacking logistics at Rialto Beach

    The hike to the beach is an easy 3.3 miles round trip. The distance depends on where you set up your tent, of course. This beach has plenty of campsites up in the grasses/ woods above the beach if you are looking to get some shade or don’t want to camp directly on the beach. To start, I would recommend camping anywhere before the Hole in the Wall, as passing through the Hole in the Wall is not an option during the high tide. This beach is a pebble beach with some incredible tide pools down by the Hole in the Wall.

    Again, you need a permit which you can get on Recreation.gov. There is also access to fresh water at Rialto Beach before the Hole in the Wall. And lastly, parking can be limited, but generally, if you have a bit of patience, a spot will clear out.

    The beauty of this beach comes with one small price – the crowds. I guess that is to be expected because it is such a magical place. However, it is an extremely popular destination for good reason! Please don’t worry, crowds thin out and disappear late in the afternoon, and you have the beach all to yourself first thing in the morning. 

    Above all, if you try out this Beach, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

     

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    2. Shi Shi Beach 

    Shi Shi Beach, nestled on the northernmost edge of the Olympic Peninsula, is a coastal gem renowned for its pristine beauty and untouched wilderness. This captivating destination offers a remarkable blend of rugged cliffs, tide pools brimming with marine life, and expanses of soft sandy shores. Situated within the Makah Indian Reservation and accessible through a scenic hike, Shi Shi Beach provides families with an unforgettable kid-friendly backpacking experience that showcases the true splendor of the Pacific Northwest.

    One of the defining characteristics of Shi Shi Beach is its untamed and wild atmosphere. As families venture along the trail that winds through lush forests and reveals breathtaking coastal panoramas, they’ll find themselves immersed in a pristine natural setting. The beach’s rocky outcroppings, towering sea stacks, and driftwood-strewn shoreline create an otherworldly ambiance that sparks the imagination. 

    This place is simply awesome for backpacking on the beach with kids. The adventure one can find on this beach is never-ending! Exploring the Point of Arches is INCREDIBLE! Just wait till you see all of the sea life to ogle. Endless rocks to climb. Did I mention the caves? It is really something! 

    But the adventure of this beach starts before you even get to the beach (actually, this is applicable for every beach on this list). From the ferry, the drive along the coast, to the hike out to the beach, everything about the trip is amazing.  The hike itself to this beach is just magic. It is so lush and green, with several winding boardwalks and bridges. Our kids loved skipping along the boardwalks. 

    Backpacking logistics at Shi Shi Beach

    The hike comes up as 8 miles roundtrip (4 miles each way), although, this is a little deceiving. You don’t need to hike the entire 4 miles as you can set up camp as soon as you hit the beach or soon thereafter. I definitely recommend going a little further down the beach, closer to all the tide pools. Although, it works equally well to set up camp and go explore without all your gear.

    There is water to filter at this beach, and plenty of driftwood to burn, too. We noted a few campsites off the beach but decided to set up right there on the beach, in the sand. We love that sand can double as a pillow or a contoured bed. Just shape it to how you feel comfortable, then set your gear on top!

    Lastly, in order to camp on this beach, you will need a few things. A permit from Recreation.gov, the Makah Recreation Pass (both described above), and you will also need to purchase parking. Parking at the trailhead is for day use only. You will need to park 1/2 mile down the road in a front yard that you pass before you get to the trailhead. There is a slot to pay for parking on the front porch. It sounds odd and confusing, but it makes sense when you see it. We backpacked here with another family, so I dropped the kids and the gear off and parked the car myself. This was a lifesaver! 

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    3. Second Beach 

    Nestled along the pristine coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, Second Beach is a picturesque and family-friendly destination that embodies the essence of a Pacific Northwest beach getaway. Located within the boundaries of Olympic National Park, this enchanting beach offers a unique blend of rugged beauty, dense forests, and stunning coastal vistas. With its sandy shores, towering sea stacks, and tranquil ambiance, Second Beach beckons families to embark on unforgettable adventures in one of nature’s most breathtaking settings.

    Second Beach also holds a special place in my heart. We took my mother-in-law camping here, and it was the first time in many years she had slept in a tent. It ended up being the perfect place for a multi-generational backpacking trip!

    Backpacking logistics for Second Beach

    The hike to the beach is 4 miles round trip (2 miles to the beach) with a minimal 310 ft of elevation gain. This is definitely one where you can run back to the car fairly easily. So easily, actually, that you can bring some comforts from home if you want.  We ended up packing in a full-sized 6-person tent and queen air mattresses to make my MIL’s stay extra comfortable! It was easy peasy to do, being such a short distance from the car.

    Our two favorite things about Second Beach are the rocks to climb and the wide-open beach. My kids ran and ran and ran! It was glorious! If you happen to get a clear day, the sunset on this beach is quite incredible. There are also lots of tide pools at low tide. Starfish and anemone heaven!

    This beach has a mix of off-and on-the-sand campsites. We nestled ourselves up in the woods just above the beach. We brought a hammock which we set up overlooking the ocean. What an amazing place to chill and listen to the waves. One important thing to note about this beach is it does not have access to fresh water. You will want to pack in plenty (again, being close to your car helps, so bring extra). 

    Second Beach is a gem that you should definitely add to your list!

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Backpacking on the beach with kids

    Getting started backpacking with kids

    If you have never been backpacking with your kid, these beaches are definitely a great place to start. If you are looking to get into it for the first time, I recommend checking out these two articles by other Run Wild My Child mamas. Both these awesome articles will get you started and give you lots of helpful tips! And, don’t forget about the RWMC camping with kids digital guide, which (while not specific to backpacking) will give you a great overview of camping gear, expectations, advice, etc. 

    Backpacking the beaches of the Olympic Penninsula Tidepools

    Olympic beach backpacking with kids

    Beach backpacking with kids in the Olympic Peninsula is a gateway to a world of adventure, discovery, and cherished memories. The benefits of exploring these kid-friendly coastal destinations are unlimited. From the physical activity and outdoor immersion that promote healthy development to the educational opportunities embedded in the region’s rich history and diverse ecosystems, beach backpacking offers an unparalleled way for families to bond and grow together.

    Beach backpacking in the Olympic Peninsula is an opportunity for families to unplug from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. From the thrill of spotting a bald eagle soaring overhead to the joy of running barefoot on the sandy shoreline, each moment is infused with a sense of excitement and adventure. Parents and children alike can revel in the simple pleasures of beachcombing, splashing in the waves, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and pink.

    So, pack your backpacks, gather your little adventurers, and set off on an unforgettable journey along the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula. Embrace the beauty, history, and enchantment that await you, and create memories that will forever hold a special place in your hearts. The wonders of the coastline are calling, and it’s time to embark on a family beach backpacking adventure of a lifetime.

    And although it might seem like a lot to consider, when broken down, backpacking on the beach can be a totally doable epic adventure. I hope this helps you to get out with your kiddos and spend the night on the beach! And when you do, please share any lessons learned. I would love to hear your stories!

    About the author

    Teri is the mama of 2 adventurous kiddos (ages 7 and 9), living in Washington State. She loves to explore the outdoors, and her kids often tell her she has a “crush” on the mountains (she agrees). Teri is an avid hiker and backpacker, who enjoys getting out on solo trips as well as trips with her kids. She has been taking her kids camping, hiking, and backpacking since before they could walk. Teri loves to unplug with them, be fully present, and immerse themselves in the outdoors. She has traveled a lot of the world with her kids, they lived in China for a while, but she keeps finding herself most excited about her own backyard. Teri is passionate about inspiring other families and moms to get outside and explore the outdoors with and without their kids.

    You can find more from Teri online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @the.trekking.mama
    Website: http://www.thetrekkingmama.com
    RWMC posts: Teri Walzenbach

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with Kids

    Often the best outdoor destinations require traveling off the beaten path. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in the remote upper peninsula of Michigan, but this scenic park is worth the time and effort it takes to travel there. One of only four lakeshores protected by the U.S. National Park Service, Pictured Rocks offers so much beauty for the whole family to enjoy. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family, shares why your family should consider a visit to this amazing Michigan destination. If hiking to gushing waterfalls, exploring sugar sand beaches, or enjoying turquoise blue water sounds like a great trip, read on to learn the best tips and spots to visit while Exploring the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with Kids.

    Best times to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

    Since Pictured Rocks is located in far northern Michigan, the weather can vary widely between seasons. Winter brings snow and ice, and travel can be limited. Spring can still bring plenty of snow, but late spring can offer a chance to visit before the summer travelers arrive.

    Summer and fall are typically the best times for families. While Lake Superior never gets warm, hot summer days can allow kids a chance to splash along the lakeshore. More guided activities, shops, and restaurants are open during the summer tourist season. The downside to summer is that you may have to deal with biting flies.

    Fall is also a good choice as it brings mild temperatures and stunning fall colors. We visited in mid-September and found the weather still warm enough but without any of the biting flies that summer brings. Fall color typically peaks in early to mid-October, and the park can be more crowded during peak color weekends. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    Tips to plan a visit to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

     1. Plan ahead for lodging

    The two main areas to stay when visiting Pictured Rocks are Munising and Grand Marais. Munising is located on the west side of the park and offers more lodging and restaurant choices. This is also where boat tours of Pictured Rocks depart.

    On the east side of the park, you can find tiny and charming Grand Marais. Both of these towns offer hotels, cabins, or campground options. There are also several campgrounds located within the National Park boundaries. As the area is more remote, the lodging choices are few, and it is best to book ahead of time. 

    2. Bring a map

    Cell service can be spotty in this entire area. It is best to download offline maps onto your phone, use a GPS device, or bring a paper map. The park visitor centers and the town visitor center in Munising are great spots to pick up maps of the area. 

    3. Pack food and a cooler

    There is no food sold inside the park boundaries, with the nearest restaurants being in Munising and Grand Marais. Bring along a cooler for a scenic picnic lunch and a large snack supply to keep the kids fueled up for exploring. 

    4. Be prepared for conditions

    The weather can be variable this far north. Packing extra clothing and lots of layers is always a good idea, as even the average summer high temperature is only 74 degrees. With the park focused along the Lake Superior shoreline, kids are bound to get wet, sandy, or muddy. Be prepared with extra clothes or shoes for the beach.

    5. Pack insect repellant

    Late spring and summer can bring swarms of biting black flies and mosquitos. I strongly recommend bringing along plenty of bug spray. Ticks can be present in wooded and grassy areas, but are less prevalent in this region. On hot and humid days with a south wind, stable flies may be present. Unfortunately, insect repellant does not work against these biting critters. Long and loose-fitting pants plus thick socks are the best defense as they target legs and ankles. 

    6. Stop at a Visitor Center

    There are two Visitor Centers for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The main center is located at Munising. The other Visitor Center is located near Grand Marais and is typically only open in the summer. Both of these centers offer maps, Junior Ranger booklets, and park passes.

    Admission to Pictured Rocks is $20 for a 7-day pass. Annual passes such as the America the Beautiful pass are also accepted.  

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    Best hikes at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers 100 miles of hiking trails. These scenic hikes lead to waterfalls, unique rock formations, beaches, and Lake Superior overlooks. No matter the age and ability of your family, be sure to check out a trail when visiting. 

    1. Munising Falls

    Munising Falls is one of the easiest and most kid-friendly hikes in the park. Located right in the town of Munising by the Pictured Rocks Visitor Center, a paved 1/4-mile path leads to the base of this lovely 50′ tall waterfall. Two other wooden platforms require climbing up stairs for a different viewpoint of the waterfall.

    This is a great hike for the whole family as it is stroller and ADA-friendly. It is also one of the few park trails where pets are allowed. The road to the waterfall trailhead is kept cleared year-round so that the waterfall can even be viewed in winter.

    2. Sand Point Marsh Trail

    Another stroller and wheelchair-accessible trail is Sand Point Marsh Trail. This path is a 0.5 mile loop located across from Sand Point Beach. A wooden boardwalk offers a view of the park’s most beautiful wetlands. Try this one early or late in the day to increase your chance of seeing wildlife. 

    3. Miners Falls

    This 1.2-mile roundtrip hike offers a view of the park’s most powerful waterfall. The path is wide and mostly level as it travels gently downhill to the waterfall viewing platform. 

    4. Miners Castle Overlook

    One of the most popular spots in the park, this overlook offers an amazing view of the Miners Castle rock formation. This area is the only cliff area of the park that can be reached by vehicle instead of a long hike. There are three overlook platforms. The first two are short walks along a paved trail. The final overlook does require descending a set of wooden steps for a total 1/2 mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot. 

    If you wish for a longer hike, another 1-mile trail leads from the cliff overlook down to Miner’s Beach below. You can also drive directly to Miner’s Beach from the overlook. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    5. Log Slide Overlook

    The Log Slide Overlook is an interesting stop combining a scenic view and history. A 0.25-mile roundtrip walk leads to a dramatic overlook 175 feet above Lake Superior. Back in Michigan’s logging days, loggers built a wooden chute to slide logs down the sand dunes to the lake below. The logs were then floated to sawmills in Grand Marais. Today, you may see some brave (or just crazy!) people climbing down the steep sand dune to the lake. (Remember, what goes down, must climb back up!)

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    6. Sable Falls

    Sable Falls is yet another beautiful waterfall that can be reached with a short hike. The trail from the parking lot leads down a set of stairs with viewing platforms of this 75′ tall waterfall. The best viewpoint is from the bottom of the 168 steps. You can also continue hiking past the waterfall and down to the beach. This would make a total 0.4-mile roundtrip hike. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    7. Au Sable Light Station

    The Au Sable Light Station at Pictured Rocks was built in 1873-1874 and stands 86 feet tall. The site today contains the keeper’s quarters, the lighthouse, and several outbuildings. The hike to the Au Sable Light Station is a little longer at 3 miles round trip. However, the trail is easy as you are hiking along a flat and wide roadway that is only open to park service vehicles. This trail can be prone to stable flies, so be prepared if hiking on a hot or humid summer day with a south wind!

    Keep an eye out while hiking along the trail, and you will see a sign on the left about shipwrecks on the beach. Take the stairs down to the beach and keep following along the beach toward the lighthouse. Along the way, you will see the remains of several wooden ships right on the beach. Be sure to keep kids off the shipwrecks both to preserve them and for safety. Once you reach the lighthouse, another set up steps leads back up from the beach to the lighthouse. 

    From mid-June through September, you can even take a tour and climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view. The tours typically run between 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tours are $5 for anyone over 6. (Age 6 and under is free.) Be sure to bring cash and exact change. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kidsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    8. Chapel Falls

    The Chapel Falls hike is located in the Chapel and Mosquito Basin area of the park. Hitting the trail early in the morning is suggested, as parking is limited in this area.  Reaching the trailhead requires driving 5 miles down an unpaved and potholed road. It’s typically fine in a regular car, but check conditions at the Visitor Center when wet or muddy. 

    The trail to Chapel Falls follows an old road and is mostly flat and easy. It is about 1.2 miles each way to the overlook of 60-foot-tall Chapel Falls. 

    Older kids and strong hikers may wish to continue further to reach Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach. This full loop runs about 6.2 miles but offers amazing cliffside views of Chapel Rock and Lake Superior. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    Best  beaches for kids at Pictured Rocks

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers many beautiful beaches to explore. Bring along the typical sand toys and buckets to allow kids to enjoy the sugar sand. Many beaches also offer a mixture of interesting rocks to examine or throw into the water. Just keep in mind that you cannot keep any rocks found within the National Lakeshore. 

    1. Sand Point

    Sand Point is located just a few miles north of Munising. This beach offers picnic tables and a wheelchair-accessible mat to the beach. The shallow waters at Sand Point mean the water is a little warmer than at other beaches. This is also a great spot to watch a sunset over Munising Bay.

    2. Miner’s Beach

    Miner’s Beach was my favorite beach we visited. The beach stretches for a mile between two towering cliffs on each end. A seasonal waterfall flows off the rocks at the northeast end of the beach. This beach offers a lovely sunset view. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    3. Twelvemile Beach

    Closer to the east end of Pictured Rocks, you can find Twelvemile Beach. As the name suggests, this area consists of a 12-mile-long stretch of pristine beach. The beach is a short walk from the parking lot, but does involve descending stairs down from the bluff.

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    Water activities at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

    While the beaches and hikes are a big draw at Pictured Rocks, don’t miss exploring the lakeshore from the water. Munising offers several types and lengths of tour cruises to view the red rock formations and cliffs of Pictured Rocks from Lake Superior. Glass bottom boat tours give visitors a chance to view the shipwrecks located under the lake. Families may also wish to rent a boat and explore the area on their own from one of several boat rentals. 

    Older kids and teens may enjoy SUPing, taking a kayaking tour, or a scuba diving tour to view the many shipwrecks in the lake. The weather and currents of Lake Superior can be unpredictable, so these activities are only recommended for families with older children and an experienced guide. 

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    Why you should visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with kids

    We have visited many national park sites, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore ranks right up there with our favorite destinations. The sugar sand beaches, historic sites, towering waterfalls, and dramatic red cliffs make Pictured Rocks a stunning destination for the whole family to enjoy. I hope you feel inspired to seek out this scenic jewel along Lake Superior.

    Have you ever visited Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore? 

    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

  • HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Best Kid-Friendly Hikes in Atlanta

    When you think of Atlanta, you may not think of it as a hiking city. Many locals go to North Georgia for all the kid-friendly hikes, but there are quite a few closer to the city that are worth your time. Atlanta is filled with many unique hikes, and you don’t have to go far to experience them. Today, India Tate, local Atlanta mom of two, outdoor adventurer, and founder of Our Wanderlust Life, is here to share the best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta, Georgia. So, grab your hiking boots, and let’s go explore!

    Best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

    Exploring the kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

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

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

    1. Sweet Water Creek (red trail) 

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

    sweet water creek ruins at sweet water creek

    2. Sope Creek Paper Mill trail

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

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

    ruins at sope creeklake on sope creek trail

    3. High Falls

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

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

    high falls

    4. East Palisades bamboo forest 

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

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

    bamboo forest

    5. Vickery Creek 

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

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

    Vickery creek at Roswell mill bridge at Roswell mill

    6. Clyde Shepherd nature preserve  

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

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

    nature trail

    7. Cochran Mill (orange trail) 

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

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

    cochran mill waterfall cochran mill waterfall

    Best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta

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

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

    Did you know about any of these hikes in Atlanta?

    India - Our Wanderlust Life

    About the author

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

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

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    How to Use a Pocket Microscope

    What do dead bugs, pine needles, worms, and sand have in common? Maybe you should add soil, bark, and pond water to that list. And that’s only the beginning. All these things, and more, may find their way into your kids’ hands and under the lens of a pocket microscope while on a nature walk. Today, Laura Stroup, founder of Firefly Nature School and mom to three wildlings, shows you how to get a close-up look at nature through the lens of a pocket microscope. 

    child using microscope to look at moss in a creek

    What is a pocket microscope?

    Pocket microscopes are so named because they easily fit inside the pocket of your clothing or backpack. Their small size and light weight make them a good choice to take on a nature walk or hike. They are also sturdy and relatively simple to operate.

    Once you learn how to use them, you can teach your kids to do the same. Soon, you’ll wonder what everything looks like magnified under the microscope.

    Best pocket microscopes for kids

    There are many pocket microscope brands on the market. Prices range from $10-$50. And maybe the best part of small microscopes is the small price tag. Many can be purchased for under $20. They make great stocking stuffers or birthday gifts for your kids or their friends. You can even purchase small cases for your microscope for extra protection and battery storage when transporting them. If your kids jump, climb, and tumble on a nature walk like mine do, then the storage case might be worth the extra cost. 

    When choosing a pocket microscope, there are many features you can consider, including, size, magnification ability, camera function, light, and durability. Here are a few choices for a great pocket microscope for kids: 

    The one we use is the Carson Microbrite Plus. As is the case with many other brands, it has a light, zoom, focus ring, eyepiece, and lens. This particular microscope can zoom in anywhere from 60 to 120 times magnification.

    backpack with pocket microscope in front pocket

    Starting with a pocket microscope

    Many people feel intimidated when they first use a microscope, but starting with a pocket microscope can make the process seem less daunting, especially when you’re going to teach your kids how to use it, too.

    Eventually, when you move on to a larger microscope down the road, you will already have microscope basics under your belt. And teaching your kids what you’ve learned will provide them with an invaluable skill they can use throughout their education. 

    pocket microscope close-up on mossy rock

    How to use a pocket microscope

    To begin, you will want to keep the microscope on a flat surface. Then, find something around you worth a close-up look. A piece of fabric, napkin, hair, even your phone screen will work. And placing a light-colored paper or plate under the object will make it easier to view with your microscope.

    Turn on your microscope’s light, and place the scope on the object so the lens is over the top of what you want to see. Make sure the zoom adjustment is on its lowest power. For example, if the zoom adjustment goes from 60x to 120x, you’ll want it set to 60x. 

    Now it’s time to take a peek. Put your dominant eye up to the eyepiece on top of the microscope and look through while closing your other eye. Likely, the image will be blurry. While looking through the eyepiece and holding the microscope still, slowly turn the focus ring until the object comes clearly into view.

    Once you see it, wow! It only gets better by zooming in closer. Move the zoom to the highest power, and again, use the focus ring to see the image clearly, with even more detail this time. 

    child laying in field looking at flowers with microscope

    What can you do with a pocket microscope?

    Practice with different items around the house until you feel confident passing your newfound skills to your kids, with the eventual goal of taking your microscope outside with you and using it for all the things you find on your nature walks!

    When you’ve had a lot of experience manipulating the zoom adjustment and focus ring, you can even use the pocket microscope up against a tree or flower, as long as you’re able to hold it steady and the object you’re looking at doesn’t move around. 

    tips for using a pocket microscope with kids

    Looking at nature finds

    Some of our favorite nature treasures to view with a microscope are:

    • sand
    • soil
    • butterfly wings
    • insect legs
    • bark
    • lichens
    • moss
    • flower petals
    • seeds
    • broad leaves
    • needle leaves
    • algae
    • droplets of pond water

    child hiking with backpack and microscope

    Benefits of using a pocket microscope in nature

    Using a microscope in nature really helps you to slow down and appreciate the intricacies and details of things you see every single day. You’ll literally stop to smell and see the roses (and all the other flowers along the trail as well).

    It also gives your kids invaluable and concrete STEM skills. But more than that, it nurtures their creativity, curiosity, and imagination. It instills a sense of wonder.

    The plethora of features to see on even the tiniest bit of nature is surprising. Hairs and pores dot leaves and insect legs, scales cover butterfly wings, jagged edges surround bits of sand, and minute creatures scurry in soil and pond water.

    child putting microscope in pocket

    Add a pocket microscope to your next outdoor adventure

    You can hone your observation skills by doing simple nature journaling activities while using your microscope. Draw and label items that you see while out in nature. Then, look at the same items again, but under the microscope. Draw another illustration of what the object looks like close-up. What details did you notice after using the microscope that you did not see originally? 

    Pocket microscopes are fun tools to use when you go hiking on a trail or around your neighborhood. Usually, my backpack ends up holding ALL the things on a hike – water bottles, rocks, sticks, bones, you name it.

    Since these microscopes aren’t heavy or awkward, kids don’t mind carrying them and rather enjoy having them close by to grab when the notion strikes.

    Toting a microscope in their pocket and having easy access to it on a hike just makes sense. You’ll probably even find yourself asking your kids if you can use it, too. 

    pocket microscope view of a monarch butterfly wing

    Have you ever used a pocket microscope?

    About the author

    Laura is an ecology writer and the founder of Firefly Nature School, a nature study curriculum designed for homeschooling families, co-ops, and classrooms. Laura has a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University with an emphasis in natural resource education. A former wildlife conservation educator and upper school science teacher, she now directs School of the Wild, a local nature school serving her community. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her family, hiking, running, writing, reading, and cooking. Laura lives with her husband and their three children in the beautiful Ozarks countryside.

    Find more from Laura in the following locations:
    Website: Firefly Nature School
    Instagram: @fireflynatureschool
    Facebook: Firefly Nature School
    RWMC posts: Laura

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK

    Minnesota’s North Shore with Kids

    Minnesota’s North Shore is a Midwest scenic gem. This area of northwest Minnesota runs along the Lake Superior coast from Duluth to the Canadian border. Along this 150 miles of shore you can find quaint beach towns, multiple state parks, towering rock formations, and endless waterfalls. Even better, many of the hikes are short and kid-friendly. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family, shares why you should consider a road trip along the North Shore. Read on to plan the perfect getaway for the whole family using this guide to Minnesota’s North Shore with Kids.

    Tips for visiting Minnesota’s North Shore with kids

    1. Bring a map

    This area of Minnesota is fairly remote. Cell service can be spotty. If you stay on the main highway, it’s difficult to get lost. However, downloading an offline map or bringing a paper map is recommended. This is especially true for following hiking trails, as you may lose connection while using an app. 

    2. Pack a picnic

    As the towns are small and often spread out, bringing along groceries instead of hunting down a kid-friendly restaurant can be a good option. The restaurants in the area also tend to be pricey. The road is lined with beaches and parks that make perfect picnic stops. 

    3. Tips to avoid crowds

    Many of the popular state parks along Minnesota’s North Shore, such as Gooseberry Falls, can become very crowded. I recommend hitting the popular parks and trails early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and having to search for a parking spot. Oftentimes, you can find just as good as a park with lower crowds by traveling further north and away from the city day trippers.

    4. Use caution with kids

    This area of Minnesota has more waterfalls than you can count. Many of the trails are short and can be hiked by kids. However, there are many trails that do not have railings near waterfalls or sheer drop-offs. Carefully check the details of each hike before adventuring, and keep kids close at all times. 

    Best time to visit Minnesota’s North Shore with kids

    This area of Minnesota is about as far north as you can get. Winter brings bitter cold and heavy snowfall. Spring can be a good time to visit, but can still bring snowstorms and muddy trail conditions. Summer offers the best weather for exploring but also heavier crowds and bugs. Fall along the North Shore is spectacular, with fall weekends also bringing large amounts of leaf-peeping travelers. When traveling with kids, summer and early fall are probably your best bet for family-friendly weather to explore hiking trails and beaches. Just don’t expect Lake Superior water to ever be warm!

    Where to stay along the North Shore with kids

    With the exception of Duluth at the south end, all other towns along the North Shore are very small. Most of the lodging in the area consists of cabins, small motels, and a few resorts. Many of the state parks along the North Shore also have campgrounds offering amenities and stunning water views. 

    If possible, it can be helpful to stay in two different areas to explore both the southern end and the northern areas of the North Shore. We based part of our stay out of a hotel in Silver Bay before moving to a mountain resort at Lutsen. This helped avoid a lot of backtracking, which can eat up time. 

    Must-see spots along Minnesota’s North Shore with kids

    Minnesota’s North Shore offers a chain of beautiful state parks. Most of these parks are located right along the main highway, making it easy to visit multiple parks in a short time. A daily pass to the state parks is $7, but you can get into any of the state parks that same day. Here are several stops that should be on every North Shore itinerary. 

    1. Duluth

    Duluth is a great spot to start your North Shore Adventure. Head to Canal Park downtown to view the aerial lift bridge, lighthouse, playground, and Lakewalk. You can get a close-up view of the lake on a Vista Fleet cruise or explore by rail on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. Take a drive over the lift bridge for some beach time at the world’s largest freshwater sandbar at Park Point. Enger Park is another great Duluth park with gardens and a stone tower to climb.

    If weather interferes with your outdoor plans, Duluth also has an aquarium, railroad museum, and the free Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. 

    2. Gooseberry Falls State Park

    Gooseberry Falls is the most popular state park on the North Shore for good reason. Multiple waterfalls can be seen along short hiking trails. The beautiful Visitor Center is a good spot to stop for a restroom visit and to grab a park map. From the Visitor Center, a 1-mile loop trail leads past The Upper, Middle, and Lower falls, with two bridges crossing over the river. A portion of these trails is paved. Use caution near the waterfall overlooks with children as not all have railings. 

    Other good hiking trails at Gooseberry Falls include the 2-mile roundtrip hike to Fifth Falls or the 1.25-mile Riverview trail along the river down to the lakeshore. The Gitchi Gami Trail is just over 2 miles and offers Lake Superior views. 

    3. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

    Split Rock Lighthouse is an iconic landmark of the North Shore. The lighthouse was constructed in 1910. Today the lighthouse is managed by the Minnesota Historical Society as a historic site. An additional admission fee is required to visit the lighthouse grounds and tour the inside of the lighthouse. 

    The state park surrounding the lighthouse requires standard state park admission. The park is long and narrow, tucked between the highway and the lakeshore. The Little Two Harbors Trail offers a flat gravel path with views of the lighthouse and pebble beach along its 0.75-mile trail length. The 1.5-mile Corundum Point Overlook Trail is another trail with great views of the lake and lighthouse. If you want to take a scenic bike ride, the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail travels through the park and continues to Gooseberry Falls 8 miles south. 

    4. Black Beach

    Located in Silver Bay, Black Beach’s rich color comes from taconite. This low-grade iron ore was dumped in the lake by mining companies. It mixed with rocks and sand to form the only black beach in Minnesota. 

    This beach is beautiful, with rugged rocks and shallow water. There are nearby restrooms and picnic tables, making this a great road trip stop. 

    5.  Palisade Head

    Palisade Head is a stop I recommend with caution. A curvy and narrow road leads to a small parking area at the top with amazing views. This is one of the best views you can get without a long hike. However, there is only one small section of rock railing and very sheer drop-offs. This is a site best explored with older kids or kids small enough to be in a carrier. 

    6. Tettegouche State Park

    Tettegouche is another Minnesota North Shore state park full of lake views and waterfalls. This park has a great and large visitor center to start your adventure. Right behind the visitor center is the 1.2-mile Shovel Point Trail. This trail offers sweeping lake views from atop the bluffs. There are 300 stairs and boardwalks on this trail. Use caution with children and keep them back from any cliff edges. 

    Another popular family hike is the Cascades Falls Trail. This 1.5-mile round-trip hike follows rocky terrain along the river to Cascade Falls. There are quite a few stairs, but no steep drop-offs along this trail. If you are up for a longer waterfall trek, take the 3-mile loop to towering High Falls. 

    7. Temperance River State Park

    Another gem of a state park, Temperance River is full of deep gorges and waterfalls. On the northwest side of the highway, a short and paved path leads to an overlook of hidden falls. This is a great trail for little ones, as there are no drop-offs. 

    On the other side of the highway, stairs, and bridges cross over the river as it rushes through a rocky gorge toward the lake. Continue on the path down to the beautiful beach near the lower campground to explore the rocks and sand. This is a lovely spot for sunrise or sunset views. 

    8. Oberg Mountain

    The Oberg Mountain hike is one of the best trails we have hiked anywhere. This 2.5-mile loop starts off with a moderate climb as it switchbacks up the mountain. At the top, enjoy panoramic views as the trail circles the top. While most of the trail stays well back from cliff edges, there are a few overlooks with steep drop-offs. Keep kids close by while on the upper portion of the trail. 

    9. Lutsen Mountain

    Lutsen Mountain is located just off the main highway but is worth the detour. This mountain resort offers traditional winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. During the summer, the resort offers a gondola and alpine slide. Both of these attractions are not cheap, but the views from atop Lutsen mountain are amazing!

    10. Cascade River State Park

    You can find another short hike with waterfall views at this state park. The 0.5-mile Cascade River Lower Loop passes multiple cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye on kids, as some areas of the trail do not have railings. 

    11. Grand Portage National Monument

    This free national park site is a must-see attraction. The site preserves the history of the Grand Portage Anishinaabe tribe as well as the North American fur trade. The 8.5-mile portage trail was used by Native Americans and explorers to bypass high waterfalls and gorges. 

    Today, the site consists of a museum and a reconstructed fur trading fort. Interpreters do a wonderful job explaining the various buildings and what life was like during the 1700s. The M Be sure to ask for junior ranger booklets so kids can earn their park ranger badges.

    12. Grand Portage State Park

    The furthest north must-see stop on a North Shore vacation is Grand Portage State Park. This free state park features a paved and boardwalk 1-mile loop to three overlook platforms of High Falls, Minnesota’s highest waterfall. The waterfall is located on the border between Minnesota and Canada. The overlook platforms have railings making them safe for all ages. 

    Visiting Minnesota’s North Shore with kids

    Hopefully, this travel guide has inspired you to journey north and view the rugged beauty of the North Shore. The endless waterfalls, family-friendly hikes, and Lake Superior views provide a family adventure of memories waiting to be made. 

    Have you ever explored Minnesota’s North Shore?

    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

  • FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Best Kids Hiking Shoes

    Hiking is one of the most accessible and fun outdoor adventures for kids and families. You usually don’t need to go far to go for a hike, making it a great quick and easy activity for most families to do with little prep work or planning. But, gear-wise, what do you need to go hiking? Does your child need special hiking shoes or hiking boots? And if so, what are the best hiking shoes for kids? Today, Sara Lesire, Midwest adventure mom of two, is here to help you navigate the options of the best kids hiking shoes. With some help from Run Wild My Child team members and other outdoor adventure families, we also have first-hand reviews of many of the top brands and styles, plus our top picks.  

    *This post contains affiliate links.

    the best hiking shoes for kids

    Best hiking shoes for kids

    Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities for families. There is little overhead cost or prep required, and it can be easily done close to home. When a family is just getting started hiking, a standard pair of children’s athletic shoes can do a decent job of keeping little toes safe and comfortable. However, if hiking becomes a common family activity, it can become well worth it to invest in a solid pair of hiking shoes or boots.

    Hiking shoes can provide added comfort, stability, durability, and protection on the trail for both little kids and big kids. But there are so many options and brands to choose from. If you aren’t sure where to start or which brands are worth the price, this post is for you! 

    Why hiking shoes are important

    My kids have been hiking since they could walk. They have hiked in sandals, rain boots, tennis shoes, Crocs, jellies, and sparkly princess shoes (not recommended!). When they were young, they outgrew shoes quickly and spent very little time actually hiking on their own two legs (versus riding in a hiking backpack). However, as they grew and wanted to spend more time on the ground or splashing through creeks, it became more important to invest in a solid pair of hiking shoes for kids (or hiking boots) that would provide added safety and comfort. 

    best kids hiking shoes

    Types & styles of kids’ hiking shoes

    There are several different styles of kids’ hiking shoes available, depending on what type of terrain your family will be hiking and which style feels most comfortable for your kids. In their most basic form, hiking shoes for kids can be categorized into three types: (1) hiking sandals, (2) trail runners, and (3) hiking boots. Let’s go over each style of hiking shoe and when/where it’s best to have each type. 

    1. Kids’ hiking sandals

    Are you planning short hikes, sandy trails, or trails with lots of water crossings? If so, you might consider hiking trail sandals.  Hiking sandals provide more durability and stability than normal sandals or water shoes. Most dedicated hiking sandals are designed to be well-ventilated and quick to dry. They can also keep feet cooler during hot weather. However, they do leave feet more exposed and may not be the best option for long, rugged, or overgrown terrain. 

    best kids hiking sandals

    Photo credit: @ExploreSTLparks

    2. Kids’ trail runners

    For many kids, trail runners may be a good all-around option for hiking shoes. Designed to fit more like traditional athletic shoes, these low-cut styles can fit more comfortably and are similar to shoes they are used to wearing. You can also save money by using this style of shoes for everyday play, as well as hitting the trails.

    A downside of trail runners is that they offer less ankle support and may not have as much grip for rugged terrain. While some trail runners are waterproof, your child may step in water that is deep enough to go right over the top (speaking from experience!) and they take longer to dry out. 

    best kids trail runners

    3. Kids’ hiking boots

    If your family is planning to hike long trails, climb mountains, or hike in the snow, then hiking boots may be a good investment. The higher cut of kids hiking boots offers better ankle support and more protection from rocks, brush, and snakes. Older kids who may carry a backpack with gear may benefit from hiking boots as they are putting more pressure on their feet. Many hiking boots are also waterproof.

    The downsides to hiking boots are that they make take more time for kids to get accustomed to, can be too bulky and heavy for little feet, and can be hot when hiking during the summer months. 

    best kids hiking boots

    Features of kids’ hiking shoes

    Kids’ hiking shoes or hiking boots offer several advantages over other styles of shoes for outdoor adventures. You may come across several different terms and wonder which features are the best options for your family based on the types of trails you will be tackling. Here’s a quick overview of the features you may want to look for in a kids’ hiking shoe, based on your location, terrain, and needs. 

    Comfort

    Comfort is the most important feature of any type of boy or girl hiking shoe. Shoes that are not comfortable or don’t fit properly can lead to blisters, sore feet, and more whines per mile. While there can be some breaking in time for new shoes, hiking shoes or boots should still feel comfortable right out of the box. Adding a comfy pair of wool-blend hiking socks can provide added comfort and breathability while keeping children’s feet, heels and little toes blister-free. 

    Style of lacing

    Can your child tie their own laces easily and quickly? While laces offer more options for customizing the fit and can be replaced if they break, they can also be hard for little hands. Untied laces can be a safety hazard as well, causing kids to trip. Many styles of kids’ trail runners and hiking sandals use velcro or bungee laces that are much easier for kids to put on themselves. (And kids can take foreeeever to put on shoes!)

    Durability

    Another important thing you’ll want to consider is durability. You want your shoe investment to last. Cheaper options may not be as durable, but you can afford to replace them more often if your child’s feet are growing quickly. More expensive brands offer more durability, which is important if your family hikes often or for older kids whose foot growth has slowed down. Longer-lasting, more durable shoes will also be in better condition to pass down to another child, if you have more than one kid. 

    Reinforced toes

    Whichever style of hiking shoe you settle on, reinforced toes or bumpers are so important. Not only do they offer extra protection from stubbed toes, but think about how often your kids like to drag their toes along the ground or stick them into every rock or puddle. Reinforced toes will prolong the life of the shoe. 

    Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

    Traction

    Traction is very important for hiking safely. especially if you hike in wet, snowy, or rugged conditions. Traction is also handy to avoid falls when kids find a fun pile of rocks to climb or are out on muddy hikes. Rubber soles are helpful when you’re traversing wet or rocky terrain. You can test the traction by having your kids try to slide or rub the sole of the shoes across the floor when trying them on. The flexibility of the sole of the shoe can make a big difference in how much traction you’ll get when hiking. Knobby soles also help with traction. 

    Support

    Support is another important hiking shoe feature. Look for hiking shoes or boots that offer good support for the sole, arch, and toes. If you have a kid that rolls their ankle or is hiking long trails, the added ankle support of hiking boots versus trail runners may be a good option. Longer hikes may require additional support. 

    Waterproofing

    There are pros and cons to waterproof shoes. If you are hiking in cooler or snowy conditions, waterproofing becomes important.  Or if you have a child that can’t stand wet feet. However, waterproof shoes do take longer to dry and water can still enter the shoe if is submerged long enough or deep enough. As waterproof shoes are more sealed, they can trap odors and make for warmer feet in summer. With how often my kids’ feet end up in the water, we tend to go with waterproof shoes!

    best kids waterproof hiking shoes

    How to shop for kids’ hiking shoes

    There are several factors that can go into deciding which style or brand of hiking shoe will be the best fit for your child. Here are some important factors that you’ll need to consider when shopping for kids’ hiking shoes. 

    Consider the seasons and weather

    Will your hikes be more in the summer months when your child may wish for a lighter and more breathable pair of shoes? Or will your hikes be in a colder climate or in the snow where waterproofing, insulated linings, and a higher cut would be important? Does your climate have a lot of rain where a waterproof shoe is a necessity?

    Consider the terrain you’ll be hiking

    Are your hikes mostly on paved paths or well-groomed trails? A child’s regular athletic shoes may be sufficient, or a pair of trail runners could be a good option. If your hikes are longer, on rugged terrain, or involve water, then it may be time to look for a good pair of comfortable hiking shoes or boots for safer and happier hikes. Certain brands of hiking shoes also offer extra grip for slick and rough terrain to avoid slips or falls. 

    Let kids try hiking shoes on in person

    Always give kids hiking shoes or boots a thorough test for fit. Bring along the socks they will be wearing to the store as the thickness of the sock can make a big difference in fit. Have your child walk around the store and lean forward and back to check for enough room at the toe while making sure their heel doesn’t rub or pop out. Some outdoor stores even have mini rock walls kids could climb (or stairs) to check comfort and grip. 

    Hiking shoe break-in period

    While new hiking shoes and new hiking boots should feel pretty comfy out of the box, take the time to walk some easy and short trails to help break the shoes in better to avoid sore feet or blisters on a long hike. Some brands and outdoor stores even have generous return policies or guarantees if you decide the fit isn’t right after a short stroll on the trail and want to return items within a certain number of days of the original purchase. Comfortable shoes make for happy kids. 

    best kids hiking shoes

    How to save money on kids’ hiking shoes

    Kids hiking shoes can be an investment and can cost more than other styles of shoes. However, there are some ways to help stretch your outdoor shopping dollars.

    Select the size for longer wear

    You always want to buy shoes that fit well, but are on the generous side to allow for some room for growth. If the weather permits, you can always start with thicker socks and transition down to slightly thinner socks as the child’s foot grows. Just make sure the shoe or boot is not too loose to avoid blisters. 

    Plan for hand me downs

    Kids will most likely outgrow a hiking shoe before they wear it out. If you have multiple kids, try to shop for a hiking shoe in a color and style that will work for multiple kids to help with the cost. 

    Shop end of season

    If you aren’t in a hurry or want to buy ahead, try waiting for end-of-season sales. I always buy winter boots in February when stores start to put them on clearance. Hiking sandals may be on sale towards the end of summer. The tricky part can be trying to decide which size growing feet will be in the following year. 

    Shop used

    Again, kids will usually outgrow a pair of good hiking shoes before they wear them out. So, shopping second-hand is a great option. I have been fortunate to find name-brand and barely used hiking shoes and sandals at consignment sales, yard sales, thrift shops, online marketplaces, and local yard sales in really good condition. You might be able to find local stores or swap sites that offer gently used kids’ shoes or boots. When buying used, check the shoes over carefully for signs of wear, broken laces, or other issues. 

    best kids hiking shoes

    Best brands of kids hiking sandals

    Best all-around kids hiking sandals: Keen

    Keen hiking sandals are a very popular hiking option with outdoor adventure families and get high marks from our team of moms. The company has its own line called Keen Kids, which offers numerous colors, patterns, and styles of hiking sandals for kids from toddler through big kids sizes.

    Pros: Keen Newport and Seacamp sandals are easy even for little hands to get on and off. One great feature is that the sandals are machine washable for easy cleaning after a muddy trail. Keens have a reinforced toe for durability plus a closed toe to help keep out rocks. The Seacamp sandals offer more flexibility while the Newport line has a thicker sole for added protection. 

    Jen from Wandering Vaethfully states that Keen sandals are top-notch for summer and her family has owned several styles over the years. Her family loves how they grip well and appreciate the freedom the kids’ sandals give for water crossings. No more worrying about sloshing in trapped water in a closed shoe. As a bonus, the shoes are very quick to dry when wet to provide an easy transition between water and dry land. 

    Stephanie from Explore STL Parks also loves Keen Newport sandals for how durable, supportive, and versatile they are. Her family loves how sturdy the hiking sandals are with movement, especially side to side. Keens provide a good grip and traction for her kids when they climb boulders on hikes.

    Cons: While the Keens are great for spring and summer hiking, they do lack ankle support for tougher terrain. The price can also be a barrier to some families. 

    best kids hiking sandals

    Photo credit: @wanderingvaethfully

    Best value kids hiking sandals: HOBIBEAR

    If you need a more budget-friendly option, HOBIBEAR costs about half that of bigger brands while still receiving over 7,000 high ratings on Amazon.

    Pros: They offer sizes from toddler through big kid and a range of colors. HOBIBEARs offer a flexible and lightweight shoe with a cushioned footbed and adjustable velcro strap. Macquel from Colorado With Kiddos loves how quickly the HOBIBEAR hiking sandals are to dry when hiking to the many beautiful Colorado streams and lakes and finds them a good value for the price. 

    Cons: Not as durable as Keens, toe reinforcement is not as strong.

    best kids hiking sandals

    Photo credit: @coloradowithkiddos

    Best budget kids hiking sandals: Dream Pairs

    Dream Pairs offers another affordable option. My kids enjoyed these when they were younger and hiked shorter distances or spent more time playing in creeks.

    Pros: The Dream Pairs hiking sandals have breathable mesh, a flexible sole, and sturdy toe bumpers. We also appreciated that the webbing along the sides had smaller openings which helped prevent rocks from entering the sandal. While they are not as durable as more expensive brands, they can be a smart savings choice for fast-growing feet. 

    Cons: Less durable than higher-priced brands. There are two straps required to put the shoe on, which can be tricky for little hands. 

    Best kids’ hiking trail runners

    Best all-around multipurpose kids trail runners: Merrell 

    Merrell is one of the most popular brands of kids’ trail runners. Their hiking shoes can be a great option for kids to go straight from the school or the playground onto a hiking trail. The Merrell Kids Trail Chaser model is a great lightweight option available in a range of colors. 

    Pros:  The Trail Chasers have an easy hook and loop closure, a comfy footbed, and a non-marking outsole with a flexible grip. The suede and mesh construction provides both durability and breathability. These shoes often are on sale or available at outdoor outlet locations, making them often a great buy.

    Cons: Cost is a little high when full price. Not waterproof, although reviewers say they do offer some water resistance. 

    Best lightweight kids trail runners: Salomon

    Salomon is known for their high-quality outdoor gear for both kids and adults. 

    Pros:  Adventure mom Nichole Holze loves Salomon Speedcross trail running shoes for her kids. They’re super lightweight and can handle getting wet. The rugged knobs on the bottom of the soles provide unbeatable traction in slick and tough terrain. 

    Cons: The main con is that the Salomon brand tends to be pricey. 

    Best kids trail runners

    Photo credit: @coleyraeh

    Best budget lightweight trail runners: Hawkwell

    Hawkwell kids offers a great kids outdoor hiking shoe at a low price. My son actually wore these as everyday shoes to school and the playground as we managed to snag a pair during a sale. 

    Pros: Great price. The Hawkwell hiking shoes are lightweight and breathable. The foam footbed provides comfort, and the traction is decent for the price. The hook and loop closure makes it easy for kids to get on and off themselves.

    Cons: The toe protection is not the best and they are not as durable as more expensive brands. They also run more narrow compared to other brands. 

    Best budget waterproof trail runners: Biacolum

    Biacolum hiking shoes are a good waterproof kids hiking shoe option at a lower price. My daughter has worn these shoes in two different sizes over the past couple years and we’ve been happy with them for the price point.

    Pros: We have been very impressed with the waterproofing on the Biacolum hiking shoes during rainy day hikes and creek crossings. These shoes also offer a good grip on the soles for good traction.

    Cons: While they do have a velcro closure, the shoes have been a little trickier to get on compared to other velcro shoes as the tongue does not lift up quite as far. The price on these can vary widely online, so keep an eye out to snag these at a true budget price. 

    best kids budget trail runners

    Best trail runners for teens: Oboz

    Oboz is a popular outdoor gear brand that is known for making high-quality and durable hiking shoes. 

    Pros: Jen from Go Family Adventure has an older teen son who prefers Oboz brand low-cut style hiking shoes. Oboz offers many styles and colors in both waterproof and non-waterproof options. Her son likes how they are stylish and comfortable enough for everyday use in addition to hitting the trails. 

    Cons: Oboz shoes start at $125 a pair, so the cost can be a splurge. They are only available in adult sizes, so they are not an option for younger hikers. 

    Photo credit: @sara_mccarty

    Best kids’ hiking boots

    Best hiking boots for toddlers: L.L. Bean

    There aren’t a lot of hiking boot options out there for the littlest of feet. L.L. Bean makes highly rated toddler trail model hikers so the youngest of your family can join in all the adventures in safety and comfort. 

    Pros: The taller cut, durable heel, and toe bumpers provide extra protection toddlers need against rocks and debris. The boots feature a wide opening and hook-and-loop strap for easy on and off. The boots feature waterproofing to keep little feet safe and dry. The model is based on their adult train model hiking boots and then field-tested on kids. 

    Cons: The shoes are only available in toddler sizes 5-9. The cost can be hard to justify for kids that may not hike long distances or who outgrow shoes quickly.  

    Alternate option: The See Kai Run Sam Waterproof Boots come in both toddler (1-4 years) and little kid sizes (4-8 years). These lightweight shoes have classic waterproof hiking boot styling with easy elastic lace closure, flexible sole, and a durable rubber toe cap. 

    Best all-around kid’s hiking boot brand: Merrell 

    Merrell is one of the top hiking boot brands for all ages. They offer a wide variety of hiking boot styles for kids from sizes 4 toddler to big kids size 7. 

    Pros: Jamie from Learning to Adventure loves the Merrell Kids Moab 2 hiking boot for her kids. She loves the durability, ankle support, toe protection, and waterproofing. Her family has hiked all over the Midwest in these through water, rain, and both flat and rocky terrain. The mix of leather and mesh materials keeps feet cooler in hotter temps. They also work great for kiddos with wider feet. 

    Michelle from Wonder Club Explorers is a big fan of Merrell Moab Speed Waterproof Mid Boot. They’ve been great for her 8-year-old and should work well for ages 6-10. They are waterproof but not clunky and have worked well on hikes of several hours. They are designed with moisture-wicking technology to prevent sweaty feet, while the mesh uppers of the boot allow breathability. 

    Cons: The big disadvantage of Merrell hiking boots can be the higher cost. Many Merrell boots run wide, so kids with more narrow feet may be prone to blisters if their feet slide around in the shoe. The laces are also not the sturdiest or longest compared to some other brands. They have also discontinued some of the styles that off-hook and loop closures instead of laces. 

    best kids hiking shoes merrell

    Photo credit: @wonderclubexplorers

    best kids hiking boots

    Photo credit @learningtoadventure

    Best waterproof kids hiking boot: Columbia

    Columbia’s Newton Ridge hiking boot is one of the top models in both adult and kids sizes. I actually wear this style in women’s for all my cooler weather, snowy, or longer terrain hikes. 

    Pros: The Columbia hiking boots for kids feature a leather upper waterproof coating as well as a waterproof seam-sealed membrane, making them a good snow hiking boot. These boots are not as clunky or heavy as other waterproof boots. The soles have a good grip and non-marking rubber. These fit well on wider kid’s feet.

    Cons: The leather construction is less breathable than boots that feature mesh uppers. These shoes also have laces instead of an easier hook-and-loop closure. 

    Best hiking boots for older kids: Salomon

    Pros: Jen from @gofamilyadventure‘s teenage son prefers Salomon hiking boots for their durability and ankle support. These sturdy boots are good for older children as they go all the way up to big kid size 7.5. 

    Cons: Salomon boots run higher in cost than some other brands. 

    Best budget water-resistant boots: Deer Stag

    My son has owned a couple of pairs of Deer Stag Jr. Hikers over the years, and they have always provided comfort and support on miles of trails. While they don’t have quite the level of features as higher prices brands, they can provide a good mix of value and quality. 

    Pros: While the price of these Deer Stags kids hikers can fluctuate online, we have always managed to find these boots at a great price. While they are only labeled water-resistant and not fully waterproof, they have done a good job of keeping my son’s feet dry during creek crossings and light rain. They have a thick and cushioned sole and some extra toe protection.

    Cons: Most Deer Stag hiking boots have laces instead of easier hook-and-loop. The laces are not as long as I would prefer to allow double-tying. While the grip is pretty good, we have had other boots with better traction. 

    deer stag kids hiking boots

    Best snow hiking boot: Keen

    Once again, Keen provides a great brand option when shopping for hiking boots for both small kids and big kids for winter adventures or hikes in the snow. The Keen Greta Waterproof Boot is a highly rated option for both building snowmen or hiking through the snowy woods. 

    Pros: These kids’ snow boots are available in both little and big kid sizes and in a few different styles to best fit your child’s feet. These boots are both waterproof and breathable. Multi-direction lugs on the soles provide optimal grip for sure footing and great traction in the most rugged terrain. The insulation and fleece lining inside these boots are rated down to -25° F. The hook-and-loop strap makes the boots easy to get on and off.  

    Cons: These are one of the higher-priced models of kids’ Keen hiking boots, but sales are frequent. The soles can be a little stiff as thicker boots are usually less flexible. 

    Best budget cold weather boots: JMFCHI 

    Pros: If you are planning on hiking in cold or slick conditions, these JMFCHI snow boots are a great option. They have a unique pop-out metal crampon that can provide extra grip in slick conditions. The boots have a plush and warm lining inside, while the higher cut helps keep snow out. While the boots are labeled water resistant and not waterproof, my son’s feet stayed dry during several hikes in the snow while wearing these boots all last winter. 

    Cons: Not fully waterproof. The insulated lining can lead to sweaty feet. 

    best kids winter hiking boots

    Find the hiking shoes for the trails you hike most

    While all the options and styles of hiking shoes can be overwhelming (both in features and price), we hope this post will help you focus on finding the pair for the style of trails your family likes to hike the most.

    For younger kids, it may be better to start with trail runners that can serve as multi-purpose shoes for normal play and sports, as well as handling the trails. Older children who may hike more rugged and longer trails might benefit from the added features and support of hiking boots.

    Finally, if you mostly venture outside only in summer or to play in creeks or beaches, then a pair of hiking sandals might be a smart choice. Hopefully, this guide gives you a place to start on your shopping journey!

    best kids hiking shoes

    More hiking with kids resources

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    Do you have a favorite style or brand of kids’ hiking shoes?

    About the author

    Sara 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

  • BIKE, CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, HIKE

    Ultimate List of Outdoor Gear for Kids

    It’s no secret that when it comes to outfitting our kids for the great outdoors, the options are endless, and the choices can get overwhelming. While we all know that a box and a pile of sticks can allow for endless hours of unstructured entertainment, that’s not going to keep kids warm or safe when exploring. When we’re ready to take our adventures past the front yard and to the next level, what outdoor gear do kids need? Today, our gear-guru and PNW mountain mom of 4, RyAnn Peverly is here to go over the best outdoor gear for kids and give you recommendations to save you time, research, and money. 

    *This post contains affiliate links. gear for outdoor kids

    Outdoor gear for kids

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

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

    Best outdoor clothing for kids

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

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

    Best base layers (merino wool)

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

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

    Best outdoor shirts for kids

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

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

    Pants/ shorts (or a combination thereof)

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

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

    Kids’ rain gear

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

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

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

    Best rain jackets, pants and rain suits for kids

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

    Best outdoor kids rain boots 

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

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

    Rain jackets

    Best jackets, coats, and insulating layers for kids

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

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

    Footwear

    Best footwear for outdoor kids

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

    Outdoor kids’ tennis shoes and kids’ hiking shoes

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

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

    best water shoes for kids

    Best water shoes for kids

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

    Best socks for kids

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

    gear for outdoorsy kids

    Best  hiking gear and equipment for families

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

    Best outdoor and off-road strollers

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

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

    best hiking baby carriersFeature image credit: @somerpickel

    Baby and child carriers

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

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

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

    Best backpacks for kids

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

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

    First aid kit

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

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

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

    Best lights, lanterns, headlamps, and other illumination

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

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

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

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

    Best hiking backpacks for kids

    Best kids’ water bottles and hydration bladders

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

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

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

    gear for outdoorsy kids

    Best camping gear for kids and families

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

    Best camping tents for families

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

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

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

    Photo credit: @kristcx

    Best sleeping bags for kids

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

    Sleeping pad or cot

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

    Best kids’ camping chairs

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

    Bug protection for kids

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

    Camping hammock

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

    gear for outdoorsy kids

    Best biking gear and options for kids

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

    Best bikes for kids

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

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

    Photo credit: @kristcx

    Biking trailer

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

    Best bike helmets for kids

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

    Biking accessories for kids

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

    Photo credit: @meghavelaarphoto

    Best water gear for kids

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

    Best sunhats for kids

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

    3 kids in life jacketsPhoto credit: @meghangarriott

    Best life jackets for kids

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

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

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

    Water shoes for kids

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

    awesome gift ideas for outdoor kids - fishing waders

    Best sunscreen for kids

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

    Best sunglasses for kids

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

    outdoor toys

    Best outdoors toys for kids

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

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

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

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

    Photo credit: @arevook

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

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

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

    Best outdoor activity books for kids

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

    activities for kids

    Best outdoor gear for kids

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

    family camping gear packing checklist

    Printable camping gear lists for families

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

    [maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/6ad1ea8208c2/fw0osm9qnr” text=”PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST” ]

    About the author

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

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

  • GEOCACHING, HIKE, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK

    Spice Up Your Family Hikes with Geocaching

    Do your kids moan and groan when you mention hiking? Are they bored with the same trails? Do they like finding real-life treasure? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we’ve got a fun activity for you! Geocaching is a real-life treasure hunt that you can do nearly anywhere (including on your favorite family hiking trails). Today, Alabama mom of two, Zenovia Stephens is here sharing her family’s newfound love of geocaching and how it’s spiced up their family hikes. She’ll teach you how to get started geocaching for free, and walk you through geocaching best practices and etiquette. We think geocaching just might be your family’s new favorite outdoor activity! 

    Geocaching app

    Spice up your hikes with geocaching

    Have you ever found your kids getting tired of something they love doing, but do so often it seems stale? If you’re a parent, chances are you answered yes. My family loves hiking, but kids can easily get bored with hiking. I have a lot of ideas for keeping hiking interesting for littles. One of our favorite ways is choosing a hike with exciting sights. This involves researching trails and making sure the payoff for kids is enough to keep them excited about putting one foot in front of the other.

    While fun sights along your hike can yield great results, how can we combat trail boredom or hiking fatigue when you might not have exciting destinations? How do you keep a hike through your local park exciting? Or even just a walk through town? I have one more trick up my sleeve, and it’s call geocaching! Read on to learn what geocaching is and how it can save your family hiking trips.

    What is geocaching

    Before I understood what geocaching was, I automatically assumed it was lame. I never imagined my family or I would be interested in something involving GPS coordinates or caches. Was I being closed-minded? Absolutely. I just didn’t know what we were missing! Luckily, people kept asking if we’d tried geocaching, so I decided it was time to see what all the hype was about (mainly so we could tell people we tried it and it wasn’t our thing). Much to my surprise, we LOVED it!

    Geocaching.com defines geocaching as a real-world, outdoor adventure that is happening all the time, all around the world. Now, if you’ve never heard of or been geocaching, it could be because it’s still relatively new. This adventure activity has only existed since 2000 and has grown from a few geocaches to millions of geocaches and geocachers worldwide. I can now agree that it deserves all the hype it’s built up and urge everyone to give it a try.

    geocaching with kids

    How does geocaching work?

    Geocaching is pretty straightforward and is easier than it sounds. It works by using GPS tracking through apps on your smartphone, such as the free geocaching app. This app shows users the various caches (we like to call them treasures) available nearby and helps you navigate to them. Think of it as a real-life treasure hunt where you’re searching for items hidden by other users. 

    You’d be surprised how many caches are out there (everywhere!) and where caches are located. We once found one in a junkyard near a restaurant we were visiting. While we couldn’t get to it due to not having anyone to permit us to enter, searching for the treasure kept us entertained while waiting to be seated. Caches are at your local park, hidden along your favorite trails, all over in the city and suburbs. 

    Create your account and start geocaching

    Once you download the app, you’ll be prompted to create an account. You can use the free version, which gives access to a limited number of caches, or the paid option to see premium caches. I recommend starting with the basic account and upgrading if need be. The free version lets your find “traditional” caches (which are a bit larger and easier to find than the small or micro caches), which are perfect for little kids and families. 

    how does geocaching work

    Finding the cache

    The map on the geocaching app will direct you close to the cache (within 30 feet). Then, it’s up to you to find the treasure! Caches are usually small containers filled with little trinkets and goodies for trading. The cache may also have a log book for you to write down your name and the date you found the cache. Once you find it, you can swap out a trinket with another and sign the log book. Make sure to put the cache back exactly where you found it. And then mark it as “found” on the app, which will turn it into a smiley face icon. 

    Geocaching etiquette

    If geocaching sounds like something your family would enjoy, there are a few things you should know before heading out to find treasure. Geocaching etiquette says: 

    • Don’t take anything from the cache if you don’t have anything to leave (and leave something of equal or greater value). I happen to love this because it helps keep it fair for everyone and ensures you’ll get something when you find the treasure. Imagine the disappointment after spending time excitedly searching for a cache only to find it empty. To avoid being the culprit, keep a small stash of items in your car or pack specifically to replenish your finds. 
    • Use the log system to share with the owner and others whether you found the cache or not. It helps keep the spirit of adventure alive! If the cache is damaged or doesn’t contain any treasure, you can report that through the app for maintenance.
    • Be sure to return the cache to the exact spot you found it. If you don’t, others won’t experience the joy of finding it. This is true even if you think you found a better hiding place for the cache.
    • Respect private property. Some caches are hidden on or near private property; it’s a good idea to either refrain or ask permission before entering. 
    • Bring a pen to sign in with your username and date found for the owner. Not all caches have a pen or pencil to use. 

    geocaching etiquette

    How can geocaching save your family hikes?

    Easy! We’ve talked a lot about the fact that geocaching can be done anywhere, that includes while hiking. Many caches are hidden along popular trails. Caches are prevalent in parks and even in neighborhoods. You might be surprised just how many caches are out there on trails and in places you visit all the time! Or, look at the app to see where caches are hidden along trails to discover new (to you) trails and hikes to explore. 

    When you find your kids moaning and groaning about another hike, appeal to their mysterious side and present them with the opportunity to hunt for treasure in the woods instead. They’ll forget they’re hiking, you get the pleasure of having happy kids while secretly hiking, and the family has another new memory added to the bank. It’s a win for everyone! 

    geocache treausure

    Even more reasons to try geocaching

    Besides the fun of being part of a real-life treasure hunt, geocaching can serve as a tool to encourage kids in a few ways, teach new (and valuable) skills, and get them outside! Here are a few of my favorite benefits that we’ve discovered from geocaching as a family. 

    • Map reading and navigation skills are crucial components of thriving in the outdoors. Geocaching is a fun way to get kids learning more and gaining confidence in their navigation skills. I’ve personally seen my oldest son grow by leaps and bounds in his map reading skills, to the point that he can lead me!
    • The idea of leaving an item for taking an object can help instill a giver’s heart in kids. It also encourages them to be thoughtful and considerate of others who left items or might find the treasure in the future. 
    • Joy and happiness are my favorite benefits of geocaching. As parents, we know that time outdoors is healthy for our kids, but keeping them engaged and excited can become challenging. Treasure hunting is a sure way to encourage joy and happiness in kids and the entire family. The joy on a child’s face when he finds treasure is palpable! 

    ultimate family adventure

    Boredom busted

    Since diving into geocaching, we’ve found ourselves looking for caches in places we’d never thought would provide an ounce of adventure. From forests, playgrounds, city streets, undiscovered neighborhoods, and even the depths of the ocean…geocaches are everywhere! Searching for them should be a top tool in the boredom-busting box. After all, you never know what you may find!

    Geocaching resources

    Have you tried geocaching before?
    If so, what’s your most exciting find?

    About the author

    Zenovia is an outdoor enthusiast, freelance travel and adventure blogger, wife, and mom to three young boys (ages 8, 5  & 2). Originally from Chicago, Zenovia and her family live in Huntsville, Alabama, and spend many of their days exploring and learning about the area. She is the Founder and CEO of Black Kids Adventures, Inc, a non-profit organization that focuses on getting Black and Brown families to spend time together exploring and enjoying nature. Zenovia is a Visit North Alabama Ambassador, 2021 Land Trust of North Alabama Board Member, YMCA Board Member, WildKind Ambassador and a monthly contributor for We are Huntsville and Huntsville’s CVB. You can follow along with her mom and family adventures and find inspiration for your own family adventures at Black Adventure Crew.

    You can find Zenovia online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @blackadventurecrew
    Facebook: @blackadventurecrew
    Website: Black Kids Adventures
    RWMC posts: Backyard Movie Night, Outdoor Exercising with Kids