Planning a Family Hiking Trip

As I head to Yosemite with my kids I thought I’d take a minute to share what I learned in preparing for our trip.  If you have any advice or tips on hiking with kids, please share.  I’d love to hear your ideas.

I’m trying to get my boys excited about hiking so on the way we will learn about waterfalls, plants, trees, animals and all of the other wonders of nature.

I purchased a back pack since I will be carrying everything needed for our day trips.  They already have sturdy sneakers, wide brimmed hats and SPF clothing since sun protection is a must.

1. Broad spectrum sun block
2. Water and snacks—as much as I can carry
3. Bug repellent
4. First aid kit—band-aids, antibiotic ointment, anti itch ointment, pain/fever reducer, antihistamine
5. Cell phone—in case of emergency although there will probably be no reception
6. Extra clothes—hoping to see/play in a waterfall or just in case we get wet or dirty
7. Camera

Since my boys are almost 4 and 6 years of age, I know they will need encouragement every step of the way.  We will look for different colored plants and flowers, bugs, whatever I can think of to excite them to move forward and keep exploring.  I know they will need a break every 5 to 10 minutes or so and probably 1 to 2 miles round trip will be our maximum limit (if even that).  Flexibility is key.  I know we may not go far, we may get wet and dirty, but as long as we have fun, our trip will be a success.