Jon talks about hiking with kids.

 

Hiking with Kids

Tips for fun and safety on the trail

The winter and spring are great times to get the kids out hiking and camping in Arizona. Your adventures with them will create memories that will last a lifetime and you may find a great way to unplug with them and spark their interest in the great outdoors.

Keeping it fun and safe is the key. In this short video we cover just a few of the important things consider as you get outdoors with them.

And safety first.
We have to remember that the outdoors can be dangerous, not just for the little ones. People can get separated or lost easily in the desert. Having a simple $4 whistle is an easy fix for this and learning how to use it for signaling is simply The Most Important thing for kids to learn.

Of course, water and rest and layers for their comfort and health are also extremely important as well and always have these in their packs. You can make it fun for them to carry a few of their own supplies by keeping their packs lightweight and throwing a snack they like and a pamphlet about animal tracks or plants in there as well. They’ll be like Dora the Explorer or Indiana Jones and enjoy the adventure.



Recommended ANYTIME you head into the Backcountry, check out our video on the 10 Essentials. Keep um small and light so you take them on Every Hike! For Kids a few fun essentials could make a big difference.

The 10 + 1 Essentials for every hike:

  • Navigation (map and compass)
  • Sun Protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Insulation (extra clothing
  • Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)
  • First-aid supplies
  • Fire (matches/lighter and fire starter)
  • Repair kit and tools (including knife)
  • Nutrition (extra food) Hydration (extra water)
  • Emergency Shelter (min. 2 large trash bags)
  • Signaling (whistle, cell phone)
  • Personal (glasses, prescriptions, toiletries, etc.)

For info on our classes, visit our class page!
Don't have a pack to go backpacking and don't want to spend money on a new one? Visit our rental page.
Don't forget all the other gear we have for rent.