Hiking is more than just a physical activity – you already know that if you’re a fan. But how can you pass on this passion to your children? From what age can you introduce them to it?
In this article, we give you 5 good reasons to take them on the trails with you. Strengthen their health, instill values or simply share moments with family: hiking is the ideal activity to create memories while offering them lasting benefits.
01. Develop a unique connection with nature
Children love to explore, touch, smell, observe. When hiking, nature becomes their playground. They discover plants, animals, landscapes. It's the perfect time to teach them to recognize a tree, listen to birds or observe an anthill.
You also make them aware of environmental protection: picking up rubbish, respecting marked paths, avoiding picking flowers. These little habits, incorporated early, will remain anchored in them for a long time.
Our advice:
➜ Choose a trail with points of interest (a river, a lake, a clearing).
➜ Take a magnifying glass, a pair of binoculars or an illustrated guide to make the experience even more fun.
Start small: a walk of a few kilometers is enough to arouse their curiosity. You will be surprised to see how excited they become about a simple ladybug!
02. Strengthen their physical and mental health
Hiking is a sport disguised as an adventure. By walking, your children develop their endurance, balance and coordination, all while burning energy.
Bonus: It's a great alternative to screens.
On the mental side, the effect is just as positive. Being outdoors helps reduce stress and improves their mood (and yours, at the same time). Walking in nature also boosts their concentration and creativity.
Some figures:
➜ Children who practice regular physical activity are often more attentive and calm.
➜ 1 hour of gentle walking is enough to maintain recommended physical activity.
Our advice:
➜ Alternate between walking and fun breaks (collecting leaves, playing hide-and-seek) to keep their motivation high.
In short: hiking is a health boost for the whole family, without even feeling like you're making an effort.
03. Encourage perseverance and autonomy
Hiking is not just a stroll: it is learning in motion.
Climbing a slope or reaching a summit requires effort, patience, and a little tenacity. Each step taken builds their self-confidence.
By giving them small responsibilities (carrying their water bottle, following the markings), you also help them develop their autonomy. They learn to get by and make decisions, while feeling valued.
Our advice:
➜ Set age-appropriate goals, such as spotting a mark on a tree or finding a rock shaped like an animal.
➜ Congratulate them for every small victory (and even for their efforts when they grumble a little).
As you go hiking, you will see their pride grow.
And who knows? One day, they will be the ones who motivate you to move forward.
04. Share unique moments with family
Hiking is quality time away from screens, noise and the stress of everyday life. These simple moments, walking side by side, are the perfect opportunity to chat, laugh and create memories that will last a lifetime.
An impromptu picnic by a lake, a photo with the summit in the background, or a break to admire a sunset: these little moments become big stories to tell (and to bring out at birthdays).
Our advice:
➜ Bring a notebook for your children to draw or write down their discoveries.
➜ Create rituals, such as a special snack at each hike, or a group photo at the finish point.
These shared moments strengthen family bonds and complicity. And let's face it, seeing your children marvel at a simple flower is priceless.
05. Transmit essential values from a young age
Hiking is a school of life in the great outdoors. Respecting marked paths, not leaving any waste, observing without disturbing: these are all simple actions that teach your children the importance of preserving their environment.
It's also a great way to teach them responsibility. Carrying a small bag, checking the map or monitoring the markings gives them a role to play and involves them in the adventure.
Our advice:
➜ Make it a game: who will find the next mark on the trail?
➜Explain why we don't pick flowers or why it is important to leave stones in their place.
These little lessons learned while walking will stay with them long after the hike is over. And you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to make them respectful and responsible adults.
Go on an adventure with your family!
Hiking is the perfect opportunity to share time with family, discover nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Lace up your shoes, choose a trail and let your children marvel at every step.
And if you want to share these moments with us, tag us on Instagram with the hashtag #Kimberteam. We can’t wait to see your escapades, your summits reached, and even your picnics. It’s your turn!
To prepare your shipments, do not hesitate to discover our other articles:
➜ The 5 best getaways for a family weekend
➜ How to prepare for a hike with young children?
➜ The 5 best apps for planning your outdoor activities
You will find plenty of ideas for your next outings. We look forward to hearing from you!
Need some shoes for your little adventurers?
Before you leave, remember to equip the whole family with suitable shoes. For little feet that are new to the trails, discover our selection of comfortable, durable models designed to accompany every step.
Visit our site to find the perfect pair for your mini-hikers and benefit from our best advice!
