How to Hike with a Toddler and Have Fun: 15 Tips

Do you want to hike with your toddler? Read on for the best advice and tips about hiking with a toddler!

As the parent of a toddler who wants to introduce your young child to the joys of hiking, you might wonder how to plan a first hike with a toddler. 

If you’re an experienced hiker, it can be a challenge to adapt to hiking with small kids.

If you’ve new to hiking, but want to explore nature with your child, you might not know how to plan a family hike. 

As a mom of three, I promise that incredible adventures await when you take your toddler hiking. 

Exploring the great outdoors with your little one can be a magical experience. Not only will you learn about nature and your child, you’ll develop a special bond by spending time with your toddler hiking in the great outdoors. 

Hiking with a toddler is not without challenges. That’s why I wrote this blog post, full of insights and tips to help you have the best possible experience with your little hiker. 

From choosing the right hiking trail, being prepared, and keeping your toddler engaged, this comprehensive post about hiking with toddlers will help you set off on the right foot! 

So grab your backpacks and get started hiking with your toddler!

15 Awesome Tips for Hiking with a Toddler

1. Choose the right hike for your toddler

When hiking with a toddler, choose a trail that suits your child’s physical abilities, attention span, and energy level.

The whole family will enjoy the entire hike if you’re realistic about what type of hike your toddler is up for. A trail that’s too long or demanding will result in fatigue and frustration.

For the first hike with your toddler, look for trails that are labeled “kid-friendly,” “family-friendly,” or at least “easy.” You want a toddler-friendly hike on well-maintained paths with gentle terrain. 

Opt for short distances for the first hikes with your toddler. 

You’ll get parental bonus points if you choose a trail with water views, interesting landmarks, or wildlife (small or distant enough to be safe).

Read reviews on AllTrails to be sure the trial is safe for young children (no sheer cliffs alongside the trail, for example).

Trails with easy access from a parking lot (with restrooms) are a nice option.

For a young toddler, a paved path will be much easier than a rocky path. 

Also consider elevation changes. Steep trails aren’t a good match for toddlers’ short legs.  

Look for trails with shade, picnic areas, or restroom facilities, to make the hike more enjoyable for you and your toddler.

2. Time your hike

Hiking with a toddler can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also have its challenges. Fatigue and crankiness are two challenges you’ll want to avoid!

Plan your hike for a time when your toddler is normally active.

Don’t try to hike during nap time or skip a hike to nap. Instead, be sure your toddler is well rested before your hike.

If your child starts the day with high energy levels, get an early start on your hike. 

Expect that small children might become overly tired, frustrated, or fed up with hiking!  Bring a comfort item like a blanket or stuffed animal your toddler can hold if they get hurt. 

3. Check the weather

It’s very important to check the weather forecast before hiking with a toddler. 

If you’re in a climate where weather conditions may change, pack a rain jacket and sweatshirt in everyone’s daypack. 

Note that if the weather is going to be particularly hot, you should pack extra water, hike early in the day, choose shorter hikes, or postpone hiking until the temperatures lower. 

Note that if checking the weather is especially important if you decide to go on an overnight hike, hiking for long distances, or hiking in the backcountry. 

4. Choose Sturdy hiking shoes for toddlers

For yourself and your toddler, comfortable, sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction are essential. 

You don’t necessarily need to buy toddler hiking boots for an occasional hike. But if you plan to hike frequently, these hiking boots would be a good option. 

If you don’t want to buy little kids hiking boots, be sure your toddler wears sturdy sneakers with good treads.

These hiking sandals can be a great option for hiking on paved trails, but these won’t offer as much protection if you are hiking in the woods. 

Little feet grow quickly, so, before each hike, be sure your toddler’s shoes fit well to prevent blisters or discomfort during the hike. 

5. Wear Sun Protection

On your hike, you’ll want to protect your child’s skin from the sun. 

Sun hat

Your toddler will need a wide-brimmed hat to protect them from the sun. I like the wide brim on this hat. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to cover their face and neck.

Sunglasses

If you’re hiking on a bright sunny day, toddler-sized sunglasses will protect their sensitive eyes from the bright sun. 

Sunscreen

Protect your toddler’s sensitive skin by applying child-safe sunscreen with a high SPF. Reapply as needed, especially if the hike lasts several hours.

Even if you’re hiking on a wooded nature trail that is mostly shaded or hiking on a cloudy day, be sure to apply sunscreen or dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to shield them from the sun’s rays. 

6. Bring Insect Repellent

Depending on your hiking location and season, insects can be the worst part of the hiking experience. Use a child-friendly insect repellent to ward off pesky bugs.

Check your toddler for ticks and insect bites during and after the hike, paying attention to hidden areas like behind the ears and in the hair.

7. Hike Safely with your Toddler

Before you start your hike, familiarize yourself with the trail map and landmarks before starting your hike. If the hike is a loop, know where the midpoint is.

As on any hike, when hiking with a toddler, share your hiking plans with a friend or family member. Let them know where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Always carry a basic first aid kit containing items like:

• band-aids
• antiseptic wipes
• tweezers
• any necessary medications

If you are doing a long hike or hiking in an isolated area, consider packing some emergency supplies, such as:

• a flashlight
• warm clothing
• a whistle
• extra food and water

In case of an emergency, you should also bring

• your fully charged mobile phone
• a fully-charged portable charger
• a GPS device with satellite communication 

8. Use a Toddler Carrier for Hiking

It might be difficult to estimate how far toddlers will be able to hike on their little legs. If your toddler gets tired or refuses to walk, you might have to carry them. In that case, a sturdy hiking carrier is essential. 

A toddler carrier is a great backup plan so you can keep hiking, even when your toddler’s legs are too tired to continue.

The best baby carrier is one that is comfortable for both the toddler and their parent.

Best baby carrier for young toddlers

For young toddlers, consider baby wraps. If your toddler is only one year old and under 35 pounds, you might still be comfortable using a baby wrap. 

Best Baby Carriers for Older Toddlers

For older toddlers, you’ll probably want a backpack toddler carrier. Here are three fantastic options!

The Beco Baby & Toddler Carrier is lightweight and can carry a toddler between 20 and 60 pounds. This soft backpack toddler carrier can be worn with the child in the front or in the back.

The Deuter Kid Comfort toddler carrier lets your toddler and you hike in comfort. This hiking carrier gets consistent 5 star reviews, and is know for how comfortable it is to wear. It also has lots of compartments, so you can stash your first aid kit, water, phone, etc.

The Osprey Poco LT Lightweight child carrier is lightweight, has a built-in sunshade, and has multiple storage compartments. It also folds flat for easy storage.

At the beginning of your adventure, let your toddler hike. Recognize your toddler’s limits and don’t push them too hard. Otherwise, they may develop negative associations with hiking.

Be prepared with a hiking backpack carrier if the hike becomes too challenging or if your child is uncomfortable or tired. 

A good toddler hiking carrier is essential if parents and older kids want to make it to the end of the hike, or you don’t want to have to carry a toddler in your arms on return hike. Trust me, you don’t want to learn the hard way exactly how heavy your toddler is!

9. Bring Hiking snacks for toddlers

Bring lots of toddler-friendly snacks or mini-meals so your toddler doesn’t get hungry. If you sense your child needs to refuel, find a good place to stop for a snack or lunch. 

Honestly, one of my top tips for hiking with toddlers–and kids of all ages–is to bring plenty of snacks!

Some fun snacks for hiking are:

• cheddar goldfish or cheddar bunnies
• granola bars
• peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
• Fruit, prewashed and cut
• Small sandwiches
• Cheese cubes or sticks 
• Crackers
• Cereal like Cheerios or Chex
• Trail mix

To get your child excited about a hike, make trail mix with your child before you go. Trail mix is fun to eat, infinitely customizable, and offers a much-needed energy boost on hikes! 

An easy recipe for trail mix is:

• Cheerios cereal
• Chex cereal
• raisins, dried cranberries and/or banana chips
• M&Ms or chocolate chips
• peanuts or almonds (if no allergy)

For longer hikes, you can use bento boxes to pack a variety of snacks. 

And while you’re packing lots of snacks for your toddler, be sure to pack enough snacks for the adults as well! All that fresh air and hiking makes everyone hungry!

10. Pack Plenty of water for Hiking Toddlers

Even on shorter walks, your toddler should have their own spill-proof water bottle. Adults should also always have a water bottle (or water bladder, if preferred) for themselves. 

On any day hike, be sure to carry enough water for everyone. Bring extra bottles of water to refill your child’s water bottle during the hike.

Each person should bring one liter of water for every two hours of hiking. (One liter is 33.81 ounces, so roughly a 32 ounce water bottle.) Your toddler will probably not drink this much water, but it’s always a good idea to have extra water.

On warm days especially, be sure you have enough water!

11. Plan for Diaper changes on hikes

If your toddler is not yet potty trained, be prepared for diaper changes during your hike. In case of a diaper blowout or a fabulous mud puddle, bring a change of clothes so your toddler can finish the hike in clean and dry clothes. 

• diapers or pull-ups
• wipes
• changing mat
• plastic bags
• hand sanitizer
• change of clothes (including socks)

If you have to change a diaper when hiking, choose a spot well away from any poison ivy or other irritants. Enclose the dirty diaper in plastic bags and pack it out. 

12. Give Your Toddler a Backpack

Short hikes are the perfect opportunity to let your child used to carrying their own day pack when hiking. 

Help your toddler choose a cute child-sized backpack that they love. Toddlers are usually very proud to have their own backpack to carry!

Your child’s backpack should include a small water bottle and a few snacks. You could also include some bandaids and a lightweight jacket. 

These first hikes will set the tone for future hikes, so letting your child carry their gear is a great way to start. 

13. Set a comfortable pace and take breaks

Outdoorsy parents used to long hikes in the wilderness will have to slow down and take shorter steps to accommodate a toddler’s pace. 

Let your child set the pace. It’s OK to stop to examine every rock, bug, leaf, or puddle that grabs your child’s attention. 

Toddlers have shorter attention spans and tire more quickly. When you find a great place to take a break, stop to rest, enjoy the area’s natural beauty, and eat a snack.

Plan for a longer time than you would typically take to complete the trail.

Realize that you’ll be setting the tone for your child’s experience with hiking. Enjoy seeing the world with fresh eyes. 

14. Encourage your toddler 

Help them notice

Most young kids are natural noticers. However, some toddlers might need help noticing the things around them when they’re bored, tired, or frustrated. 

• Point out interesting plants, rocks, wildlife, or sounds. 
• Bring a child-friendly field guide or use a nature identification app to identify and learn more about the flora and fauna you see on your hike. 

Play games while you hike with your Toddler

Plan hiking games that are fun, educational, and engaging. If you’re hiking with an older child, they’ll enjoy participating too. Some ideas include:

• “I Spy”
• Counting trees with certain features, flowers, birds, etc.
• Cloud gazing
• Mimicking bird song
• Scavenger hunt with a list of things you’re practically guaranteed to see in the area you’re hiking
• Bingo game with a list of things your toddler will be able to find along the trail

Give Positive Encouragement

Offer encouragement and praise for your toddler’s efforts, whether it’s climbing over rocks or spotting a squirrel.

Celebrate small achievements and make the hike a positive experience by focusing on the journey. 

​Trails that are easy strolls for you are tough hikes for little kids! 

Teach trail etiquette

Explain the “Leave No Trace” principle to your toddler. 

Teach them to stay on the trail at all times, not pick any plants, and not disturb the wildlife.

Explain that you won’t take anything from the trail and you will leave only footprints. Model good behavior by packing out any trash. 

Greet fellow hikers with a smile and a cheery “Hello.” 

15. What to do After Hiking with a Toddler

After a hike with your toddler, take time to wind down and appreciate the adventure. 

Check your toddler for insect bites and attend to any cuts or scrapes from the hike. 

Have your child help you clean out the backpacks and dispose of all trash. Clean up any gear that got dirty. 

Reflect on the day’s adventures! Ask your toddler about their favorite parts of the hike. Encourage them to draw a picture from the hike. Write about the hike in your toddler’s scrapbook. 

End the day with a good meal and a warm bath. Then, the last thing to do with your toddler after a hike is enjoy an early bedtime!

Hiking with a Toddler: Essential Gear Checklist

Here’s a checklist of essential gear for hiking with a toddler.

• sturdy hiking shoes
• rain jacket
• sweatshirt or jacket
• hiking carrier
• diaper or pull-up changing supplies
• sun hat
• sunglasses
• insect repellent
• sunscreen
• water bottle
• extra water
• snacks
• toddler-sized backpack
• first aid kit
• emergency supplies (flashlight, portable charger, whistle, etc.)
• patience

Final thoughts on hiking with a toddler

While hiking with a toddler can take some planning and extra effort, I can assure you that the rewards are worth it. I started hiking with my children when they were very young, and now they’re all enthusiastic hikers. 

Hiking with young children takes careful planning, a positive mindset, and the right gear. But if you start hiking with your children during the toddler years, they’ll learn to enjoy hiking as much as you do!

Whether you start hiking at state parks close to home or head out to explore national parks, you’ll find lots of great hikes for toddlers. 

The most important tips I can give you for hiking with a toddler are to be prepared, be patient, and don’t be afraid of that first hike!  The best time to start hiking with your child is when they are young. 

Now that my kids are older hiking together is one of our family’s favorite things to do. And I know this is because we started hiking together when they were toddlers. 

Each hike you take with your toddler will help foster a life-long love of the outdoors and create a stronger family bond.

Use these nature captions and nature hashtags when you share your pics on Instagram!

Enjoy each step on your outdoor adventures together, as you explore nature from their perspective! Have a wonderful time on your next hike with your toddler!