Finding the right hike for children can be hard, as the trail must be safe and not too strenuous. Also, it’s important that the hike gets them interested in learning more about the outdoors. There are plenty of national parks that are great for kids’ hikes around the United States that could be a perfect location for a family hike. Below are some of the best locations to hike as a family with kids.
Sourdough Ridge Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The lovely views of Mount Rainier and other snowy peaks in western Washington can be enjoyed by the entire family with the Sourdough Ridge Trail. This short but fun hike is located in the park’s subalpine zone and offers gentle elevation gain.
This is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the high country. Children will feel like they are mountain climbers as they reach the top of the ridge. This area is closed most of the year due to snow, so plan on visiting during the summer or early fall.
Giant Logs Trail, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
This national park in northeastern Arizona has a wide-open space that kids often find exciting. Children will be fascinated by the massive “fallen trees,” which are made of rocks that can be found in the park’s trails. One of the best short hikes for kids is the Giant Logs Trail, which begins at the Rainbow Forest Museum.
The path leads to the largest known log in the park, which is called Old Faithful, which is around 170 feet long and spans more than nine feet across. Kids can get a glimpse of how ancient tree trunks were covered in water that had dissolved silica, which turned into quartz crystals.
Presidential Trail, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
Kids have seen these enormous presidential heads in books, movies, and television programs. The four heads, which are all above the mountain, look like they are very distinguished. Mount Rushmore, located in South Dakota, can be viewed through the Avenue of Flags. It’s best to arrive early in the morning to take advantage of the best light.
To get a better view of the sculpture, take the Presidential Trail, which passes the studio where Gutzon Borglum worked. You can also hire audio wands for narrated tours of the park, where you can learn more about the monument’s history.