Best Backpacking Trips For Kids

“Best Backpacking Trips for Kids

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Introduction

With great enthusiasm, we dive into an engaging topic: Best Backpacking Trips for Kids. Join us as we navigate insights that inform, inspire, and open new perspectives for our readers.

Best Backpacking Trips for Kids

Backpacking with children can be a wonderful way to bond with them, introduce them to the outdoors, and create memories that will last a lifetime. However, it is important to plan carefully and choose a trip that is appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities.

Here are some of the best backpacking trips for kids, along with tips for planning a successful trip:

1. Lost Coast Trail, California

The Lost Coast Trail is a 25.3-mile point-to-point trail in Northern California. This trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and tide pools teeming with marine life. The Lost Coast Trail is a challenging hike, but it is also a very rewarding one.

• Distance: 25.3 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Best time to go: May-October

Tips for backpacking the Lost Coast Trail with kids:

• Make sure your children are in good physical condition before attempting this hike.
• Pack plenty of food and water.
• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Be aware of the tides.
• Bring a tide chart and know how to read it.

2. Art Smith Trail, Utah

The Art Smith Trail is a 6.1-mile loop trail in the La Sal Mountains of Utah. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Art Smith Trail is a moderate hike, and it is a great option for families with young children.

• Distance: 6.1 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best time to go: June-September

Tips for backpacking the Art Smith Trail with kids:

• Bring plenty of water, as there is not much water available on the trail.
• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourselves from the sun.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area, such as bears and mountain lions.

3. Teton Crest Trail, Wyoming

The Teton Crest Trail is a 38.7-mile point-to-point trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. This trail is known for its stunning views of the Teton Mountains. The Teton Crest Trail is a challenging hike, but it is also a very rewarding one.

• Distance: 38.7 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Best time to go: July-September

Tips for backpacking the Teton Crest Trail with kids:

• Make sure your children are in good physical condition before attempting this hike.
• Pack plenty of food and water.
• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area, such as bears and mountain lions.
• Obtain a permit for backpacking in Grand Teton National Park.

4. Eagle Rock Loop, Arkansas

The Eagle Rock Loop is a 27.4-mile loop trail in the Ouachita National Forest of Arkansas. This trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, swimming holes, and hardwood forests. The Eagle Rock Loop is a moderate hike, and it is a great option for families with older children.

• Distance: 27.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best time to go: March-May and September-November

Tips for backpacking the Eagle Rock Loop with kids:

• Bring plenty of water, as there is not much water available on the trail.
• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourselves from the sun.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area, such as bears and snakes.

5. Lakeshore Trail, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

The Lakeshore Trail in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a stunning hike along Lake Superior. While the entire trail is 42.4 miles, you can choose shorter sections to backpack with kids. The views of the sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches are unforgettable.

• Distance: Variable, depending on the section chosen
• Difficulty: Moderate, depending on the section chosen
• Best time to go: June-September

Tips for backpacking the Lakeshore Trail with kids:

• Choose a shorter section of the trail for younger children.
• Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly.
• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes and black flies can be a problem.
• Be aware of the cliffs and stay away from the edge.
• Consider taking a boat tour of the Pictured Rocks to see them from a different perspective.

6. Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia

Grayson Highlands State Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery and wild ponies. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. You can create a backpacking loop that is appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities.

• Distance: Variable, depending on the loop chosen
• Difficulty: Easy to challenging, depending on the loop chosen
• Best time to go: April-October

Tips for backpacking in Grayson Highlands State Park with kids:

• Keep an eye out for the wild ponies, but don’t approach or feed them.
• Bring plenty of water, as there is not much water available on some trails.
• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourselves from the sun.
• Consider visiting the park’s visitor center to learn more about the area.

7. Hoh River Trail, Olympic National Park, Washington

The Hoh River Trail is a relatively flat and easy trail that follows the Hoh River through a lush rainforest. The trail is 17.4 miles long, but you can choose to hike a shorter section with kids. The rainforest is home to a variety of plants and animals, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and banana slugs.

• Distance: Variable, depending on the section chosen
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best time to go: June-September

Tips for backpacking the Hoh River Trail with kids:

• Bring rain gear, as the rainforest is very wet.
• Wear waterproof boots.
• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be a problem.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area, such as bears and elk.
• Take your time and enjoy the beauty of the rainforest.

8. Dolly Sods Wilderness, West Virginia

Dolly Sods Wilderness is a unique and beautiful area with a variety of landscapes, including bogs, forests, and rocky outcrops. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. You can create a backpacking loop that is appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities.

• Distance: Variable, depending on the loop chosen
• Difficulty: Easy to challenging, depending on the loop chosen
• Best time to go: May-October

Tips for backpacking in Dolly Sods Wilderness with kids:

• Be prepared for the weather to change quickly.
• Bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourselves from the sun.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area, such as bears and snakes.
• Bring a map and compass, as the trails can be confusing.
• Respect the fragile ecosystem and stay on the trails.

9. Blackwoods Campground to Seawall Campground, Acadia National Park, Maine

This is a relatively easy backpacking trip that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can hike along the coast, explore tide pools, and enjoy the beauty of Acadia National Park. The distance between the two campgrounds is about 5 miles.

• Distance: 5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best time to go: June-October

Tips for backpacking in Acadia National Park with kids:

• Make reservations for the campgrounds in advance.
• Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly.
• Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes and black flies can be a problem.
• Be aware of the tides and stay away from the edge of the cliffs.
• Consider visiting the park’s visitor center to learn more about the area.

Tips for Planning a Successful Backpacking Trip with Kids

Here are some general tips for planning a successful backpacking trip with kids:

• Choose a trip that is appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities. Start with shorter, easier trips and gradually increase the difficulty as your children get older and more experienced.
• Involve your children in the planning process. Let them help choose the destination, pack their own gear, and plan the meals.
• Pack light. You will be carrying all of your gear, so it is important to pack only what you need.
• Pack plenty of food and water. Kids get hungry and thirsty quickly, so it is important to have enough food and water for everyone.
• Be prepared for the weather. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather.
• Bring a first-aid kit. Accidents can happen, so it is important to have a first-aid kit on hand.
• Be patient. Backpacking with kids can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding. Be patient with your children and enjoy the experience.
• Make it fun. Bring games, books, or other activities to keep your children entertained on the trail.
• Leave no trace. Pack out everything you pack in and leave the campsite cleaner than you found it.
• Consider the time of year. Some trails are best hiked in the spring or fall, while others are best hiked in the summer.
• Check the weather forecast before you go. Be prepared for the weather conditions you are likely to encounter.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. This is important in case of an emergency.
• Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed them.
• Teach your children about Leave No Trace principles. Help them understand the importance of protecting the environment.
• Take breaks often. Kids need to rest more often than adults.
• Celebrate your accomplishments. When you reach your destination, take time to celebrate your accomplishment.

Backpacking with children can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. By following these tips, you can plan a safe, fun, and memorable trip. Remember to be flexible, patient, and enjoy the journey!