It’s hard to imagine a more wholesome family activity than hiking. Exploring the outdoors boosts physical and mental health, promotes creativity and calms stress, says Heidi Magi, lead teacher at Pioneer Springs Community School, a nature-based public charter school in Charlotte.
“As a middle school teacher at a nature school, I see the ways in which a deep connection to nature helps kids feel more grounded in the world,” Magi says. “Studies show that because the natural world is less structured than the electronic and indoor worlds that children spend time in, time in nature tends to increasing creativity, self-confidence and imagination.”
Ready to get moving? From choosing baby’s first trail to motivating hesitant hikers and keeping kids safe, here’s what you need to know at every stage.
EARLY YEARS
Tiny Trekkers
The first step (pun intended) toward happy hiking with tots is making sure they’re safe and comfortable.
Continue reading your story on the app
Continue reading your story in the magazine
Helping Children Handle The Strongest Of Feelings
Helping children handle the strongest of feelings
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The Joy Of Letters
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Bright Lights In Beaufort
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Pumpkin Patches, Hayrides And Ghostly Gatherings
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Hiking As A Family Benefits All Ages
Hiking as a family benefits all ages.
Take a Hike - Try a Trail at Tomjachu
Walk with a giraffe over grassy plains, with a bushbuck through the thickets, and with a klipspringer to the top of a rocky hill.
Have Gear, Will Travel
These eight products are versatile companions for every adventure.
An Unexpected Autumn Rainbow
These 10 hikes bring kaleidoscopic hues to overlooked places.
Chasing the Light
A photographer bushwhacks towards dawn in the Dolly Sods. Martin Radigan, as told to Kristin Smith
Broken and Alone
When his brother turned back a few miles into their overnight hike, Jacob Velarde decided to continue solo. Then, he fell.
Emerging from Darkness
For one hiker, nature is the best place to confront her past and consider her future.
Flowing Into Silence
The natural world has a lot to say, if we're willing to listen.
When the Humans are Away
Montana’s remote Crazy Mountains are a playground for more than just hikers.
Stop and Smell the Wildflowers
Hiking is about living in the moment, not speed.
Thru-Hiking Back to Myself
Patricia Cameron set out to hike the 486-mile Colorado Trail to raise awareness for her nonprofit. She ended up finding out even more about her personal strengths.