Scouting Out Hiking Adventures: Tips for Finding Great Family-Friendly Trails Near You

Hiking is an activity that we really enjoy as a family.  We hope to do more this fall.

Over the years, we have enjoyed hiking in a variety of locations.  We hiked nearly every weekend during Covid as we looked for ways to get out of the house.  It became something we enjoyed as a family, and is something anyone can do at their own pace.  I wanted to share some tips on finding new ways to get out explore nature wherever you are!

Sometimes our outdoor treks involve spots like the pedestrian bridge between Ocean Springs and Biloxi.

Scout Out Hiking Adventures: Tips for Finding Great Family-Friendly Trails Near You

Hiking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in nature, bond with your family, and explore new places. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway in your RV or looking for a local adventure, finding the perfect trail can make all the difference. In this post, we'll dive into some tips for scouting out great hiking adventures, both near your home and in new destinations.

The right shoes and trekking poles are great gear to keep on hand in your RV for the trail.

1. Start Close to Home

Before you hit the road, explore what's in your own backyard! Many areas have hidden gems that are perfect for a quick day hike or an after-school adventure. Here’s how to find them:

• Local Parks and Nature Reserves: Check out local parks, nature reserves, or greenways. Many of these areas have well-maintained trails that are ideal for families. Websites like AllTrails or your city’s parks and recreation website can be a great starting point.

• Ask the Community: Join local hiking or outdoor groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor. These communities often share trail recommendations, conditions, and insider tips.  I belong to a state level hiking group on Facebook and have enjoyed both sharing places where we have hiked and learning about new locations in our home state.  I encourage you to use this as an avenue to learn about hiking spots!  Some of these groups even have meet ups to hike as a group at a state park.

• Visit a Local Outdoor Store: Stop by a local outdoor retailer or visitor center. Staff members are usually outdoor enthusiasts who can recommend their favorite nearby trails.

Hiking a wonderful to explore nature.

2. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Finding the right trail has never been easier, thanks to technology. Here are some tools that can help you discover your next hiking adventure:

• AllTrails App: This app is a treasure trove for hikers. It allows you to search for trails based on location, difficulty, length, and even specific features like waterfalls or pet-friendliness. You can read reviews, view photos, and get detailed maps.  You can find this app in your Google or Apple app store.

• Google Earth: Want a sneak peek before you go? Use Google Earth to virtually explore trails and surrounding areas. It’s a great way to assess the terrain and ensure it’s suitable for your family.

• Hiking Project: Another excellent resource, this app and website offer detailed trail guides, topographic maps, and user-generated content to help you find the perfect hike.

Our hikes at Glacier National Park were amazing.

3. Visit State and National Parks

State and national parks are often goldmines for stunning hiking trails. They typically offer a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, making them perfect for families. Here’s how to plan a visit:

• Check Park Websites: Before you go, visit the park’s official website. They usually have trail maps, difficulty ratings, and descriptions that can help you choose the best hike for your family.

• Talk to Park Rangers: Once you arrive, stop by the visitor center and chat with a park ranger. They can provide recommendations based on current trail conditions, your family’s experience level, and what you’re hoping to see.

• Junior Ranger Programs: Many national parks offer Junior Ranger programs, which are a fantastic way to engage your kids in learning about the environment while you hike.

4. Consider Trail Features

When scouting out a trail, consider what features will make the hike enjoyable for your family:

• Scenic Views: Look for trails that offer beautiful vistas, waterfalls, or unique rock formations. These can serve as great motivation for kids to keep moving!

• Wildlife Spotting: Trails that are known for wildlife sightings can turn a regular hike into an exciting adventure. Just make sure to educate your family on how to observe wildlife safely and respectfully.

• Interactive Elements: Some trails have educational signs, scavenger hunts, or historical landmarks. These features can keep kids engaged and make the hike more memorable.  You could even try your hand at Geocaching.  

5. Prepare for the Adventure

A successful hiking adventure starts with proper preparation. Here are a few tips to ensure your family is ready for the trail:

• Pack the Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a map. If you’re hiking with younger children, pack a few fun items like binoculars or a magnifying glass to keep them entertained.  You could even consider a kids outdoor and hiking kit that has everything included for outdoor adventures!

• Dress Appropriately: Wear layers, sturdy shoes, and a hat. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for sudden changes.

• Plan for Breaks: Hiking with kids means allowing time for rest and exploration. Pick trails with spots to sit, relax, and take in the surroundings.

• Set Realistic Goals: Choose a trail that matches your family’s fitness level and experience. Start with shorter, easier hikes and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones.

We started our little one young on the trail.

6. Make it a Learning Experience

Hiking is a great opportunity to teach your kids about nature, geography, and conservation. Here’s how you can turn your hike into an educational experience:

• Nature Journals: Encourage your kids to bring a small journal to document what they see, hear, and feel. They can draw pictures, write about the experience, or even press leaves and flowers.

• Wildlife Guides: Bring along a pocket-sized wildlife or plant guide. It’s a fun way to identify different species and learn more about the ecosystem you’re exploring.

• Leave No Trace: Teach your kids the importance of leaving nature as they found it. Carry out all trash, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife habitats.

7. Extend Your Adventure

If you’re heading out on a camping trip in your RV, make hiking a key part of your adventure. Here’s how to incorporate it into your travels:

• Research Ahead: Before your trip, research hiking options at your destination. Many campgrounds have nearby trails or are within driving distance of state or national parks.

• Involve the Kids: Let your kids help choose the trails or plan the hike. When they’re involved in the process, they’re more likely to be excited about the adventure.

• Document the Journey: Bring along a camera or use your smartphone to capture the highlights of your hike. You can create a scrapbook or photo album to remember your adventures.

Conclusion

Scouting out the perfect hiking adventure can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. Whether you’re exploring local trails or discovering new ones during your travels, these tips will help you find the best paths for your next outdoor excursion. Happy hiking!

If you are looking for gear to ramp up your fall camping and outdoor activities, be sure to check out My Amazon Store Front with our favorite Fall Gear!

Pin this post for your favorite camping board on Pinterest.