Hiking with Kids

This past Sunday, we went hiking with the kids. I would like to think it is just the beginning of the season and be able to keep up during the summer.

So, first about the hike itself. Gave wife two options, either a) Crowders Mountain which is about 40 minutes from our house or b) Latta Plantation, 5 minutes distance. She wanted something far and challenging. So Crowders it is.

For this hike, I focused on getting the kids moving. While the wife focused on snacks. Unfortunately, that meant I didn't pay attention to amount of snacks and water she packed. She had packed more than necessary amounts of snacks just for the four of us with only one water bottle. We hiked the Backside trail which is a strenuous hike, albeit .90 miles. By the time we made it half way through, wife herself had pretty much finished up all the water.

I was also hoping that I had remembered to bring my towel or bandanna. Carrying the little one on by back going up, I was sweating profusely.

Ian on my back in our trusted Kelty Kids

Hiking up with the kids, as an avid hiker myself I focused on few things. 
1. Made sure the wife is going to be OK to go up herself since her pace is slower compared to mine
2. Get the kids moving at THEIR pace
3. Be silly, have fun.

If I was hiking by myself I would have focused on either speed and length or the natural surrounding itself or both. But here since kids are involved, I decided to trek along at a good pace that our daughter set and just keep moving. While making it fun, pointing at trees, dogs, singing silly songs.



Once we made it to the top, I made it very clear to both kids that since we are all the way to the top they must stay with me all the time. And then let Ian out, and let both of them explore a little. Wife joined us shortly. Took a small break. Sucked to put the backpack back on with a sweaty back. 

Going back down was rather simple but had its own challenge. Since now I have an added wait on my back, top of the waist lets just say I wasn't excited about looking down at the stairs the whole time. 

But finally we made it down. Once we made it all the to the bottom, instead of jumping in the car and taking off we decided to have a little picnic and enjoy the weather and watch other people and dogs. After that, change out my sweaty t-shirt, takes the hiking shoes off and put on a sandal (ah.....) and then drive back home. 

For next time, I will be sure to followup on the items below.

1. Snacks
2. Water and/or energy drink
3. Towel
4. Sandals for everyone.

Recently I came across this awesome blog all about hiking. I will try to follow her and thought others might enjoy it too.

http://homemadewanderlust.com/