Planning a hike with kids? Safal KIDS had the pleasure of gathering expert tips from Liisi Peets, a nature guide from Loodustaju OÜ in South Estonia. Liisi organizes nature hikes, conducts bird counts, and photographs the wilderness. She loves spending hours in the forest, often covering just a few kilometers at a time.

“Being in nature is the best stress relief – for both kids and adults!” – Liisi Peets

From hiking with her own child to leading countless guided walks, Liisi has learned what works and what doesn’t. Here’s how to make hiking an enjoyable experience rather than a stressful one, so you’ll want to do it again and again!

Olen nii enda lapsega looduses käies kui ka oma retkedel pannud tähele asju, mida sooviksin sinuga jagada, et looduses käik laste ja perega poleks üks stressirohke ettevõtmine, vaid nauditav kogemus, mida korrata veel ja veel.

1. Time – more is better!

One of the most important factors in hiking with kids is time.

If you think your hike will take one hour, double it. If you don’t have time, skip the long trek and just explore nature near home.
Rushing through a hike, constantly checking the time, and urging kids to move faster takes the fun out of it for everyone. Instead, let kids explore at their own pace – stop for breaks, look around, and simply enjoy being in nature.

Hiking isn’t about racing through the forest – it’s about experiencing it!

2. Snacks – happy belly, happy hiker

A hungry child = zero motivation.
Bring plenty of snacks that your child actually enjoys. Some great options include:
* Carrot sticks, apples, pears, bananas
* Egg sandwiches or crackers
* Nuts, raisins, dried fruit
* Small treats or energy bars
* Water is a must – for both kids and adults!

If your child isn’t used to hiking, use small rewards as motivation. Try this trick:
Ask, “Do you see that big tree/stream/sign ahead? Let’s walk to that, and then you’ll get a little snack or surprise!”
This method helps gradually increase their stamina, and over time, they’ll enjoy hiking on their own without needing extra motivation.

If your child gets tired, it’s okay to carry them for a short stretch – but set clear limits in advance so they know when it’s time to walk again.

3. Make it a game!

Kids don’t experience nature the same way adults do. To make hiking fun, turn it into a game!

Fun hiking challenges:
* Walk backward for a short distance
* Take turns guiding each other blindfolded
* Play statue – when the leader turns around, everyone must freeze
* Hide and seek (stick close to avoid kids wandering off)
* Imagine “forest guardians” have placed obstacles (tree roots, rocks) on the path – kids must jump over them to “escape”

Collecting leaves, pinecones, or firewood for a small campfire also keeps little ones engaged.

4. Clothing – layer up!

Weather might be unpredictable – you might start your hike in winter and finish it in summer. Layering is key! Instead of one thick jacket, use multiple layers to adjust as needed.

Spring, Fall & Winter Essentials:
* Wool base layer
* Wool sweater or hoodie
* Waterproof snowsuit or jacket/pants
* Hat, double-layered gloves
* Wool socks & waterproof boots

Summer Hiking Gear:
* Light, long-sleeve shirt & long pants (protection from sun, insects, and scratches)
* Light hoodie & jacket
* Cap or sun hat
* Hiking shoes

Always pack:
* Bug spray
* Sunscreen (yes, even in the winter)
* Band-aids for small scrapes

5. Choosing the right trail

For beginner hikers, start with short, familiar trails close to home.

If your child resists hiking, let them choose between two routes: “We’re going to the forest! Would you like to go on trail A or trail B?” When kids feel included in the decision, they’re more excited to go!

Once they get used to it, try longer hikes – or switch up the experience by going at different times of day (early morning or evening with headlamps for extra adventure!).

For extra excitement, explore off-trail areas in small loops before returning to the main path.

6. Connect with nature

Encourage kids to listen, observe, and explore.

Try listening pauses:
Stop for 30 seconds – what sounds can you hear? Discuss which were closest and farthest away.

Look for creatures near a river.
* Smell flowers – which is the nicest?
* Press an ear to a tree – can you hear a woodpecker tapping?

If kids want to break sticks or climb trees, explain why it’s important to respect nature, especially in spring and summer when birds may be nesting in hollow logs.