Hiking with children: what to look out for

If you are planning to go hiking with children this summer, it is very important that you plan your excursion well because, when you go out with the little ones, you can't leave anything to improvisation.

In Sierra Nevada you have some great routes for hiking with children, such as the Laguna de las Yeguas route; this trail is the most accessible of the ones we propose as the whole route is short (1,185m) and downhill. You can also make the ascent to the Veleta peak, the route is of medium level, but the lifts open in summer will take you up to 3,000m. Climbing to the summit from there is a wonderful experience for young and old alike, and the scenery is truly extraordinary. But, whether you choose these routes or any other, it is important to bear in mind certain factors when planning your hiking trip with children. Here are some useful tips and recommendations.

How to make a day's hiking with children the perfect plan

The little ones in the house get more tired than adults (at least, walking) and a hiking route with children does not go as smoothly because they like to stop and discover everything they find on their way.

This is something inevitable and the only thing we can advise you to do is to be patient. But there are aspects of your excursion that you can have under control if you plan it properly. 

Plan your route 

It is essential to plan the route in advance when hiking with children. The first few times, try not to make the route too hard for them or it will be too long for all of you.

Choose a short route where you can make some stops in between. Bingeing all at once is counterproductive, especially if you want them to want to do it again.

And along the way, adapt to their pace and allow them freedom of movement. Always under supervision but not with too many restrictions, because the idea is to give them a taste for nature.

Check the weather forecast

Knowing what the weather is going to be like on the day of the excursion is essential for all planning. From the time of departure to the clothes, footwear and the route itself.

If you are going hiking with children in summer, you should get up early to avoid the middle of the day and excessive heat. If it is in winter, you should dress warmly. And, if it is in autumn or spring, you will surely have to take into account the possibility of rain because this can lead to a change of route or a change of clothing and footwear, or even the cancellation of the excursion in the worst case scenario.

However, in the mountains the weather forecast can change from one moment to the next.

Suitable clothing and footwear

As we have said, the weather will determine what type of clothing and footwear we choose for a hiking route with children (sportswear, mackintosh if necessary, good walking shoes or boots, cap to protect from the sun, etc.). But there should always be a common denominator: comfort.

And, of course, especially when it comes to children, a spare change of clothes and sun cream should always be in the backpack.

Prepare enough food and drink

Last but not least, you should prepare food for the trip. In addition to snacks, it's a good idea to bring something to snack on, such as energy bars or nuts.

Water should be plentiful - better than plenty! But of course, remember that the little ones should not carry too much weight.

Have you already decided what you're going to do on your next hiking trip with the kids? Visit our Nature section on the website and choose your next excursion to the Sierra Nevada. 

It will be great fun for them!