This year, my son (almost six) and I started an adventure: hiking every section of the Grey Canal Trail — a circuit of over 20 different routes near our home. Some of the hikes are long and challenging, while others are just half a kilometre. Together, we keep a map and highlight each section we’ve completed. It’s turned into one of our favourite projects — and a beautiful way to stay connected to nature and each other.
But I’ll be honest: getting kids to enjoy hiking doesn’t always happen automatically. There are tired legs, snack breaks every ten minutes, and moments when I wonder if we’ll ever make it back to the car. Still, it’s worth it. Each hike feels like another story we’ve written together.
Here are some of the things that have helped us (and might help your family too):
1. Turn it into a challenge
Kids love having a goal to work toward. Our Grey Canal map has become a treasure map — every time we complete a section, my son colours it in. We’ve promised ourselves a little treat (maybe ice cream or a picnic) when we finish the entire trail system. It turns hiking into an adventure rather than just “going for a walk.”
2. Keep it short (at first)
Not every hike has to be a marathon. Starting with shorter trails — even 15-20 minutes — helps build confidence and prevents burnout. Some of our favourite memories have come from half-kilometre hikes that end at a shady tree or a creek.
3. Make it about discovery
We stop often — to look at wildflowers, watch butterflies, or climb under “cool trees” that feel like secret forts. These breaks aren’t a distraction; they’re the heart of the hike. Let kids set the pace and notice the details adults often miss.
4. Stay present (even when it’s hard)
It’s tempting to rush, especially on longer trails. But I try to focus on the moment — even when I’m tired or my son is asking for snacks for the fifth time. Some of our best conversations happen when I slow down enough to really listen.
5. Invite friends
We usually hike just the two of us, but bringing another child or family can help keep motivation high (and turns trail time into social time). Kids inspire each other in ways we can’t always do as parents.
6. Celebrate progress
Highlighting completed sections on our map gives my son a real sense of achievement. Even if your hikes are random, mark them down — a jar of acorns, a sticker chart, or a scrapbook can turn single hikes into an ongoing adventure.
The Gift of Hiking Together
Hiking with kids isn’t always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. It teaches patience, builds resilience, and gives them a love of nature that can last a lifetime. And when we finally complete our last section of the Grey Canal Trail? I know the real reward won’t be the treat we’ve promised ourselves — it’ll be the memories we’ve collected along the way.
