Washington is home to many incredible hiking trails, but some stand out as being incredibly family-friendly. These hikes are not only great for kids, but the whole family can enjoy them. So whether you’re looking for a short day hike or an overnight backpacking adventure with your children, these five trails are a must-check and have something to offer everyone.
Why Hiking Is A Must-Try Activity For Families?
Hiking is one of the best activities for parents and kids. It is a fun way to spend quality time together, especially when you’re exploring new areas as well as being active. It’s also an inexpensive, family-friendly outdoor adventure that all ages can enjoy.
After spending some time hiking with your children, they may even become interested in other activities like camping, biking, or kayaking. This can be a great way to build memories and spend time together and teach them about the importance of always trying new things.
Before packing all your essentials for a day trip or more, some things to consider are the weather conditions, your child’s age, and ability level, as well as where you plan on hiking. It is also essential to keep a Washington based injury lawyer on speed dial, just if something goes wrong. Besides, we all know that safety first is always a great motto to live by.
Some of the known benefits of hiking with your family include:
Stimulating mental activity
Learning about the local flora and fauna that you are surrounded by on your hike. This is a great way to teach children about different plants, trees, wildlife, birds, etc.
Spending quality time together as well as being active.
It’s also an inexpensive, family-friendly outdoor adventure that all ages can enjoy.
There are many other benefits, but these are some things parents should consider before taking kids hiking, so they stay safe while having fun at the same time.
Where To Hike With The Family: 5 Top-Rated Choice
Exploring the great outdoors with the family is a wonderful and rewarding experience. The bond that you form as well as the memories that last for years after!
What’s better than exploring your beautiful state? Try hiking Washington State trails to discover its natural beauty, wildlife, and lush forests. There are many places in this great state suitable for families of all ages, so there is no excuse not to get out and explore.
Olympic National Park
Your kids will be awestruck by the spectacular views of this park. The trails are relatively short, and you can easily make your way to different parts of the park within a day or two.
Hiking through lush rainforest, beaches with beautiful ocean views, old-growth forests, waterfalls, what more could you ask for? Everyone who’s been to this park has nothing but good things to say about it.
Mount Rainier National Park
This Washington State hiking trail has something for everyone, regardless of age. The summer months are best suited for families because that’s when most of its campsites and lodges open up. So if you want a more comfortable experience, then head here in July or August.
There’s also plenty of other activities to do, such as bird-watching, glacier climbing, fishing, cycling, etc., so even nonhikers can enjoy themselves too. If you prefer winter camping during your family hike, then be sure to check out the list below for some great tips on preparing yourself with everything from clothing down to food supplies needed.
Olallie State Park
This is a perfect trail for younger kids who might not have the endurance to hike long distances. It’s a very family-friendly park where you can take your children, and they will most likely enjoy it too! This state park has numerous trails that range from easy, moderate, to difficult levels of difficulty.
Some of the best sights within this area include Mt. St Helens, old-growth forests, waterfalls, and more. So if you’re looking for somewhere new to explore with your family, then definitely give Olallie State Park a try.
Rattlesnake Ledge Trail
This is a moderate trail that features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The first part of this hike can be done in under an hour, but it will take you about twice as long to get back down because there are several steep sections along the way.
The trails are relatively easy to follow, so even if you don’t have much hiking experience, you should still be able to make your way around without getting too lost. There’s plenty of places for picnics within this area as well, which makes it perfect for those hot summer days when everyone could use some shade and water break before heading out again.
Alpine Lakes Wilderness
This is a beautiful area with waterfalls, lakes, wildflowers, and alpine tundra. Kids are usually drawn to these areas because they have the chance of seeing wildlife up close.
The best time for your family hike would be during March or April when all the snow melts away so that you can explore more of this remarkable environment. But, of course, if you don’t want to go on an actual hiking trail, then there’s plenty of other things to do, such as fishing within any one of its numerous natural bodies of water.
Final Words
Going out for a hike with your family can be a tradition that you continue for many years to come. It’s a chance for everyone to bond with each other while enjoying the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Please remember to always make sure someone is aware of your location and does not go alone when hiking. You should also be fully prepared by wearing proper clothing, having plenty of water/snacks on hand, making sure your cell phone works are all necessary precautions before setting out on any hike, no matter how short or easy it may seem.
