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Hiking with Kids: 20 Practical Tips for Parents
- andrewsco3
- May 23
- 11 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors as a family. It’s affordable, accessible, and can be tailored to suit almost any age or ability.
We started hiking with our kids when they were babies, and with every passing year the hikes have got longer, the climbs steeper, and the adventures even more rewarding.
But if you’ve ever set out on a “quick walk” that turned into a snack-deprived meltdown in the woods, you know it can come with challenges.
The good news? With a bit of planning and the right mindset, hiking with kids can be a rewarding experience for everyone.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to make your next adventure more enjoyable, these 20 tips will help set you up for success on the trail.
Tips for Hiking with Kids
Start Small and get them Hooked!
Start them young! Getting kids comfortable with being outdoors early sets the foundation for a lifelong love of hiking and nature.
If it’s your family’s first time out hiking with children, don’t aim for an all-day trek. Choose a short, easy route with minimal elevation gain and a clear destination. Think 1–2 km loops with something fun to see - a lake, river, or waterfall.
Sometimes it’s all about phrasing. Instead of calling it a hike, try saying you’re going on an adventure or off to explore a hidden waterfall. This can make the idea more exciting and engaging for kids.
If you live in Calgary, a great example is the short walk to see the Ice Falls at Fish Creek Park - it's a short, flat walk that even the youngest of children can manage, and there is a fun ice falls to explore at the end.
Keeping the first few hikes short and manageable builds confidence with your kids and makes them more likely to want to go again.
Create a Pre-Hike Ritual
Kids thrive on routine, and having a consistent pre-hike plan can help set the tone for the day.
Start by checking the weather and trail conditions together so everyone knows what to expect. Talk through what the day will look like - how far you’ll go, what the trail might be like, and when you'll stop for snacks. Setting these expectations in advance gives kids a clear sense of what's ahead and helps prevent mid-trail meltdowns.
We make packing part of the process by having our kids help gather snacks, fill their water bottles, and check off items on our gear list. It’s a simple way to make sure nothing important - like hats, gloves, or proper footwear - gets left behind.
With a routine in place, the transition from home to trail becomes smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
Choose Kid-Friendly Trails
Not all trails are created equal - and just because a trail is short, doesn’t mean it’s easy (Ha Ling, we’re looking at you).
When hiking with kids, it’s worth taking the time to find routes that are well-marked, not too steep, and offer something fun or interesting along the way. AllTrails is a helpful resource - you can filter for “family-friendly” options to narrow down the best hikes.
That said, here are a few of our favourite kid-friendly hikes in Kananaskis and the Canadian Rockies to get you started:
Pack the Essentials
When you're heading out on the trail with kids, preparation makes all the difference.
Whether you're hiking a short loop or tackling a full-day adventure, having the right gear on hand is one of the most important family hiking tips, as being prepared helps avoid unnecessary stress and keeps the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep energy levels up, and pack extra layers for changing weather - light jackets in summer, warmer gear in cooler months, and a pair of ice cleats if there’s snow on the ground.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, and sunglasses offer protection from the elements, while a small first aid kit, any needed medications, and bear spray help cover basic safety.
And while it’s not something you pack in your bag, don’t forget any required passes or permits, like the Kananaskis Conservation Pass or a National Park entry pass.
Dress in Layers
Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable on the trail with kids. Layering lets you easily adjust to changing weather and activity levels throughout the day.
Investing in quality hiking gear - from sturdy boots to comfortable backpacks - not only keeps everyone safe but also makes the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin, add an insulating middle layer for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof or windproof outer layer to protect against rain and wind.
This way, if temperatures rise or fall, everyone can add or remove clothing without hassle. Just make sure you have enough space in your backpack. Don’t forget hats and gloves for cooler weather - we've all got to the start of the trail and forgotten kids gloves at least once!
Let Them Lead
Letting kids take the lead on the trail can turn a hike into a fun and empowering adventure for them. When you allow kids to choose the pace, pick the path, or decide when to take breaks, it gives them a sense of ownership and confidence.
It also encourages curiosity as they notice things you might miss - like interesting plants, rocks, or wildlife.
Of course, adults still guide the overall direction and keep safety in mind, but giving kids the chance to lead helps keep them engaged and excited about the hike.
Map Reading / Trail Apps
Teaching kids how to read a map and use hiking apps adds an extra layer of fun and learning to your day.
Simple maps, maps on information boards along the trail, or kid-friendly apps help kids understand the route, recognize landmarks, and track progress - which goes a long way in reducing the dreaded “are we there yet?” comments.
As kids get older, introducing concepts like reading elevation changes and understanding Ordnance Survey (OS) map symbols builds important life skills as well.
Let Them Pack a Small Bag
Giving your child their own little backpack adds a sense of responsibility and independence. Let them carry a water bottle, a snack, or a small toy (Evelyn’s koala stuffies have been on some epic hikes)!
But be sure it’s not too heavy and check that they’re comfortable with it before setting out.
We spent a lot of time getting the right backpacks for our girls as they will be carrying it around the world as part of our 100 day trip! While they might focus on getting their favorite color, trust me, comfort is key!
Bring Snacks (Lots of them!)
This cannot be overstated - snacks are your secret weapon.
Kids burn energy quickly, and having a stash of easy-to-eat, no-mess snacks can make or break your outing!
Be sure to bring portable, nutritious options like fruit slices, trail mix, granola bars, or cheese sticks - but mix that in with some 'less healthy' treats, as they make great bribes!
Gummy bears are my kids’ favourite.
Stop for Breaks
Kids are natural explorers, and they’re rarely interested in rushing to the finish.
Stopping for breaks is an essential part of hiking with kids, giving little legs a chance to rest and recharge before frustration or fatigue sets in.
Use these pauses to make sure the kids are drinking enough water, have a snack, and take in the surroundings - and if you happen to come across picnic benches like at the end of Heart Creek Trail, then take advantage of it!
Being flexible and listening to your kids’ needs - stopping when they need it rather than sticking to a strict schedule - helps keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Let them poke around a tree stump, climb on rocks, or toss stones into a stream. These little moments of play keep them having fun, and recharging their energy without them even noticing.
Be Flexible
You may have envisioned a scenic loop with a picnic at the summit, but your toddler might decide they’re done just 15 minutes in. Sometimes it’s simply not your day on the trail, and that’s perfectly okay.
Kids (and adults!) often show signs early - whether they’re more tired than usual, cranky, or just not feeling it. Being flexible means adjusting your plans without frustration, whether that’s turning back early, choosing a shorter route, or switching to a lake day at the last minute.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy time together outdoors. Embracing those off days with patience and kindness keeps hiking fun and encourages a lifelong love of nature.
Discuss Safety
Talking about safety before and during a hike helps set clear expectations and keeps the whole family safe.
Showing leadership throughout the hike is important - kids learn a lot by watching active decision-making in real time.
For example, on a hike to the Green Monster Ice Falls in Kananaskis, I didn’t feel comfortable letting the kids navigate the chain section because of some serious exposure (a fall would lead to death). It just didn’t feel right, and the kids didn’t seem comfortable either, so we turned back.
They saw the decision unfold and learned from how I handled the situation.
I also learned a lot that day too. It definitely pays to explore a trail beforehand, without the kids, so you know what to expect.
Teaching kids to stay on the trail, watch for wildlife, and speak up if they’re tired or uncomfortable builds confidence and helps keep the adventure safe and enjoyable.
Time It Right
Planning hikes around your child’s natural rhythm can make all the difference in how enjoyable the experience is for everyone.
For most families, mornings tend to work best - kids are usually well-rested and full of energy, the trails are quieter, and you have a better chance of finishing before hunger or tiredness sets in.
For example, starting early helps you avoid the midday heat in summer and means you won’t feel rushed to finish before losing daylight.
By aligning your hike with your child’s peak energy times, you’ll create a smoother, happier outing where everyone can enjoy the adventure from start to finish.
Bring a Kid Carrier (Just in Case)
It’s been a while since we’ve used a kid carrier as our kids have grown, but we relied on one extensively when they were babies and toddlers.
Even if your little one insists on walking the entire way, having a comfortable carrier as a backup for tired legs is a smart move.
Look for carriers that offer good support and comfort for both you and your child.
Use Music or Audiobooks (Sparingly)
This one’s a bit controversial and not everyone will agree, but I use music (sparingly) to keep my kids entertained, but only when the trail is quiet and no one else is around.
Even then, the volume stays low - not blaring - so it doesn’t disturb the natural environment or other hikers. Please don’t be that person blasting music on a peaceful trail; if you see someone approaching, turn it off.
I’d love to say we listen to an inspirational audiobook or nature-themed playlist, but most of the time it’s Taylor Swift. Girl Dad life!
Hike with Friends
Hiking with other families can make the experience even more enjoyable for both kids and adults.
When kids have friends along, they’re often more motivated to keep going - the trail becomes a shared adventure rather than just a hike with Mum and Dad. They can chat, play games, and explore together, which helps the kilometers pass quicker.
For parents, it means extra company, shared supervision, and the chance to swap stories or trail tips. Just make sure expectations are aligned ahead of time on the pace, trail choice, and start time — so the outing works well for everyone involved.
Choose Trails with Water
Lakes, rivers, and waterfalls make fantastic hiking destinations when you’re out with kids.
Water adds an extra element of fun and adventure - from skipping stones and spotting small fish, to cooling off on a warm day. Just be sure to supervise closely around slippery rocks or fast-moving streams, and don’t forget to pack a spare pair of socks (or clothes), as kids have a tendency to get wet!
Heart Creek Trail, Troll Falls, Star Creek Falls, and Jura Creek are all safe, family-friendly options in the Canadian Rockies where little ones can enjoy the trail and explore along the way.
Bring a Kids Camera (or a Pair of Binoculars)
A kid-friendly camera is a great way to help children see the trail through their own eyes - whether they’re snapping photos of flowers, trees, or muddy boots. A short and uneventful hike in Nova Scotia turned into a few hours of fun for the girls as they discovered and photographed wild orchids.
It’s also worth packing a pair of binoculars for spotting wildlife. On two occasions now - once in Waterton Lakes and another on a hike to see a giant ammonite in Fernie - we spotted bears from a safe distance, and having binoculars helped the girls see them more clearly and safely.
Practice Leave No Trace
Teach your kids to respect nature by staying on marked trails, not picking plants, and packing out all garbage - even food scraps.
Lead by example and talk about how we can all help keep wild places clean and safe for both wildlife and other hikers.
It’s also a good idea to encourage kids to leave rocks, sticks, and flowers where they find them so others can enjoy them too - this is especially important for wild flowers.
If they’re eager to collect something, suggest taking a photo or drawing it in a notepad instead. Over time, these small habits build a strong sense of stewardship and responsibility for the outdoors.
Celebrate the Wins and end on a High Note!
Plan something fun for the end of the hike - whether it’s an ice cream, a visit to a playground, or a hot chocolate.
Wrapping up on a positive note creates lasting good memories and makes everyone more excited to hit the trails again.
Start a Hiking Journal
I know, I said 20 tips, but I couldn't resist adding one more.
Encourage kids to write or draw about each hike once you’re back home.
What did they see? What was the most exciting moment? A simple notebook can turn into a treasured keepsake, helping kids reflect on their adventures and feel proud of what they've accomplished.
If the kids are not into writing, consider making a photo book instead. Let the kids choose their favourite photos from each hike and add a few captions. We've done this for some of our trips to Mexico, Aruba and Eastern Canada, and the girls are constantly flipping through the books - reliving those memories all over again.
Final Thoughts
Hiking with kids is more than just a walk in the woods - it’s a chance to slow down, explore, and connect as a family.
Sure, it may take longer, and there may be more snack breaks than summit photos, but it's definitely worth it!
For more family-friendly trails, head to our Hiking page. You’ll find hikes across the Canadian Rockies, Kananaskis, and Calgary, plus even more tips to help you get started.