If you’re looking for an active holiday for the family to enjoy, then it’s difficult to beat hiking. But exactly why is this? Let’s take a look at some of the key advantages of this form of adventure.
It’s great for kids
The earlier you get kids acquainted with the idea of walking from one place to another, the more deeply you can ingrain an appreciation of the outdoors.
Hiking is a great way to see parts of the world that might otherwise be off-limits. If your kids already have an interest in plants, animals, and landscapes more generally, then a hike is a chance to see them all.
Physical and Mental Benefits
By taking your kids for a hike, you’ll also be helping them develop a habit that will support their physical health in the long run. Adults will also feel the physical benefits of hiking directly. You’ll enjoy superior cardiovascular fitness, as well as muscle strength and endurance. Combine hiking with other forms of exercise, and you’ll develop greater all-around fitness, which will help to reduce the likelihood of an injury.
Like many physical activities, hiking can also confer mental health benefits. You’ll get the lowered stress and improved mood that come from any form of exercise. But you’ll also get the inspiration that comes from the natural beauty you’ll be exposed to.
What shouldn’t be underestimated is the sense of accomplishment you might get through hiking. When you attain that summit, or complete a challenging loop, you’ll give everyone a boost in confidence that can be applied to life more broadly.
Educational Opportunities
Hiking presents a great chance to learn about the natural world. If you hike at different times of the year, you’ll provide children with first-hand exposure to the way that a given ecosystem really works.
Hiking can also present logistical and social challenges, which can provide children with a broader skillset. You might also get a chance to chat with your family about the things going on in your lives – and these conversations, like the hikes themselves, might take you to interesting and unexpected places.
Tips for a Successful Family Hike
So, how do you get the best out of hiking?
To begin with, you’ll want to tackle smaller, more approachable routes. If you struggle to finish the first hike, then you might not have the enthusiasm to start a second, or a third. Ramp up the difficulty gradually as you gain more experience.
You can make it fun by thinking up games to play and stories to tell along the way. Make sure that you’re dressed for the weather – which means securing the right walking boots. You should also have a supply of food and water.
In Conclusion
Hiking is a tremendously rewarding activity for families. It’s also cheap and easy to get into. Look for a suitable trail near you, and get started!