Trail Etiquette: A Guide to Teaching Your Kids on a Hike

When we take our kids out into the woods or on a hike, we’re instilling the love for nature that will make future generations preserve it in the future. However, taking them out on a trail also means teaching them the etiquette required so that while they enjoy the adventure, they also learn to respect the environment. Here are some trail etiquette as discussed by author Kris Davis in her latest book, “Seek and Find Hiking,” to teach your 7-9 year olds before you take them on a hike.

1. Review Trail Rules

Before setting out, check any rules or sign posts at the trailhead. These rules will help you protect the environment and ensure a pleasant experience. Make sure your kids understand the importance of following these guidelines.

2. Be Respectful and Friendly

Teach your children to greet other hikers with a friendly “hello” and to keep noise levels down. Also, if your kids are listening to music, make sure they have headphones and aren’t blasting music on high volume on the trail.

3. Step Aside for Uphill Hikers

Uphill hikers have the right of way so they can keep their momentum. If you are hiking downhill, step aside for those climbing up the trail.

4. Avoid Hiking on Muddy Trails

Mud can lead to erosion and trail widening, which will harm the environment. So, tell your children to stay on designated paths and to avoid trails when they’re particularly muddy.

5. Keep Wildlife at a Distance

This one could be hard to resist as children love animals. However, while teaching your kids to respect the environment is essential, respecting wildlife by not approaching or feeding animals is important too. Tell your children that wildlife needs to be observed from a distance and to never attempt to interact with or feed them.

6. Pack It In, Pack It Out

Allow you children to understand why they should not leave a trace behind. Ask them to pack out all trash and food, and pick up any litter they might come across. Carry a small trash bag to collect any waste, and dispose of it properly when you return home.

7. Respect Rock Cairns

Rock cairns are artistic landmarks; but they are also navigational tools for other hikers. Teach your kids not to build or dismantle these structures, as they help others stay on track.

8. Follow Proper Bathroom Etiquette

If nature calls, find a spot that’s at least 200 feet away from the trail and any water sources. Bury solid waste and pack out used toilet paper to keep the trail clean and minimizes environmental impact.

9. Think Twice Before Taking Natural Souvenirs

Please use your best judgment when taking rocks and flowers home. Do not take from state or national parks.

You can help protect the fragile ecosystems by instilling these values from a young age. For more of such amazing information and activities to do on a trail with your children, we recommend reading, “Seek and Find Hiking.” Author Kris Davis taught elementary school students for 33 years before retiring. She has been an avid hiker her whole adult life and desires to motivate children to want to hike and explore nature. But she also wants to continue to educate parents on foundational reading and math skills.

The book is now available now on Amazon.