People talk about the joy of sharing the outdoors with their kids, but here’s another truth: sometimes it’s just damn frustrating. Now that my son is a toddler, a walk meant to refresh our bodies and moods more often turns into a struggle. We usually take our French Bulldog, Winston, which doubles the stop-and-go pace of the trip. Either one of them will want to stop for a stick at any given moment, but never at the same time and never in the same direction. Both are stubborn and surprisingly strong for their size. When the dog stops to relieve himself, it’s like a secret signal for the toddler to start sprinting toward the least safe place of the trail, most likely over the edge. Which is where the pair tend to drive me, mentally, because I still want the trail to serve me as an escape.

Several solutions jump to mind. Leave the dog home, or insist the toddler ride in a stroller or backpack instead of running pell-mell down the trail to his heart’s delight. But I try to embrace the chaos of motherhood as much as possible, and here’s why: usually there’s no other option. Sometimes I coordinate with my husband so I can hit the trail on my own, but a solo run or hike is rare at this point, so I’m invested in examining the chaos. And I’m committed to taking on the challenge of bringing a toddler to the outdoors, because I still believe there’s something we can take away from it, even if it’s unlikely to be a sense of peace.

There are some things that won’t change when hiking with my toddler. I’ll still carry around low-level mom anxiety. I will look into trees for cougars more than I used to. I will eye the edge of the bluff as he wobble-runs down the trail ahead of me, calculating his risk of injury versus the merit of building his physical skills. I do not expect that kind of worry to go away. Nor do I expect the little problems to dissolve that come from taking a toddler into uncontrolled circumstances. More often than not, I will be carrying the toddler—who previously seemed to possess unlimited energy—for the last half mile of our walk (which will probably be up a hill, possibly in the mud, probably with lots of rocks). But it’s occurred to me how I might enjoy myself when the pace is more stop than go, when we’ve walked a frustrating 0.4 miles instead of the full length of the trail, when I feel the resentment start to build: to look at things exactly as my son does, which is to say closely and with a lot less ego.

When I walked my son in his stroller in those early locked-down months, I could tell you precisely which wildflowers were ready to open, or had reached peak bloom, or had just started to wilt. I felt more connected than I did when the trail was a blur on a solo run. I was experiencing seasons of motherhood that seemed to change as frequently as the plants—frustrations and joys that many mothers had weathered before me—and I felt peace in that connection even if I didn’t feel calm on the trail. It’s not the perfect answer, because I rarely have that sort of clarity in the moment, especially when snags happen far from the trailhead. But if I remember to look around when my toddler stops to draw in the dirt, instead of tapping my foot, I might notice something like a thunderhead as it blooms above the pines; how it’s burdened with rain but still rises and stretches and grows.

Lisa Laughlin is a freelance writer, editor, and mother living in Spokane. She serves as an Associate Editor at Out There and has a MFA in Creative Nonfiction. She looks forward (mostly) to bundling up her kid and dog and taking them on the trail this winter.

See a map of Spokane’s Trolley Trail.

Find more stories in the OTO archives about motherhood, parenthood, taking kids outside, and parenting in the outdoors.

Visit the Out There Kids archive to read the full collection of stories about families and children in the great outdoors.

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Thirty-five years ago in northeast Oregon, a 6-year-old boy named Cody Sheehy got lost in the Blue Mountains near his home. To save himself, he walked 14-20 miles, mostly on dirt roads for over 18 hours, according to Emma Marris in her 2018 “Outside” article about Sheehy.

Marris rightfully wondered, “…would a modern six-year-old be physically and psychologically able to do what Cody did?”

Sheehy survived because he was a tough kid and experienced in outdoor exploring, according to Rombert Koester, author of Lost Person Behavior. “There are probably six-year-olds who still spend all their time running around and playing outside,” he says before warning that the child who just “sits in front of a screen isn’t going to do as well.”

For kids to be similarly tough today, they need to learn hands-on skills and have ample time to play outside in the woods. Kids should develop strong sensory capabilities and a sense of direction.

Based on my own “mom research,” here are some lessons and tips for equipping kids to survive outside.

Helping Kids to Not Get Lost

Straying off trail is the most common way hikers get lost; the second most common is falling off a trail and being unable to find their way back. Teach kids to, first of all, not panic—take deep breaths to stay calm and focus on what they’ve been taught.

Next they need to stay put and call for help. Make sure children know to not be afraid of getting “in trouble” for being lost.

Children may try to backtrack. Older kids may do this successfully, but kids tend to walk in circles or, like Sheehy, walk further away from the area a child was last seen.

That’s why the National Association for Search and Rescue established the “Hug a Tree” program to help children remember to stay in one place and wait to be found.

Typically, people get lost closer to sunset or just before severe weather comes, which often results in the lost person having to stay overnight in the woods. This is why the 10 essentials are vital.

The 10 Essentials

Statistics reveal that day hikers are most vulnerable to survival situations. People typically don’t pack all essentials, thinking it’s just a few hours or a few miles, what could go wrong?

Bad weather, injury or illness, and wandering off trail is what could go wrong.

The 10 Essentials are for all ages and meant to prevent emergencies and allow a person to safely stay for a night (or longer) in the wilderness. Equip children with a backpack to carry their supplies. The following list is a kid-version, based on one provided by The Outdoor Society that also includes some of my own ideas.  

1. Navigation: Carry a paper copy of the trail map. While a smart phone has built-in GPS, batteries die and service can be unreliable in remote areas. Knowing basic map and compass orienteering skills are important. A prepared child can use these tools to navigate if they get lost. Every child should also carry an emergency whistle, attached to a zipper, to alert for help.

2. Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat.

3. Insulation: Extra seasonally-appropriate clothing such as socks, jacket, hat, and gloves to keep warm through the night.

4. Illumination: Headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries.

5. First-Aid supplies and insect repellent.

6. Fire/warmth: No matches for kids—simply too risky. Hand warmers and an emergency blanket are safer (see #10).

7. Repair kit and tools: Even young children can use a multi-tool with proper instruction and practice.

8. Nutrition: Extra snacks.

9. Hydration: A water bottle and if in the backcountry a lightweight filter bottle, such as LifeStraw brand, for safe drinking from a stream or lake.

10. Emergency shelter: A silver, heat-trapping emergency blanket is easy for kids to use. Shelter-building skills are even better.

Age-appropriate risk-taking, independence, and problem-solving help kids to develop grit and resilience, which will help today’s kids have greater courage, confidence, and readiness to face unknowns on and off life’s trails.

Kids can begin to learn wilderness and survival skills at home. Here are some nature books to get started.

For more Out There Kids stories, visit the column archives.

Amy McCaffree is Out There Kids columnist and digital editor. She used to work as a youth camp counselor and adventure guide. Now she teaches wilderness and safety skills to her own two kids whenever they’re exploring the great outdoors.

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Now that my kids are getting older, they are more willing to take a break from waterplay to explore park trails. And when we’re camping, it’s nice to take a morning hike (or paddle) and then head to the campground beach or dock when the sun is higher in the sky.

Also, older kids and teens need independent experiences, like venturing along a trail solo or with a friend. Nature inspires soul-searching, and anytime our kids can get more screen-free serenity and exercise, the better.

These are eight of our favorite regional lake parks that offer great hiking and swimming options for hot summer days. Please note that most parks prohibit dogs on the beach, so it’s best to leave your furry kid at home.

NORTH IDAHO

City Beach & Pend d’ Oreille Bay Trail (Sandpoint): Walk the flat 3-mile trail, out and back, which follows the shoreline of Lake Pend Oreille. City Beach has it all, with plenty of lakefront sand.

Farragut State Park (Athol): Beaver Bay Beach requires a steep downhill jaunt from the parking lot and restrooms, but once you arrive there’s plenty of lakefront, calm water, and trails to explore in the forest all around the bay. Trails are also accessible right from the parking lot.

Round Lake State Park (Sagle): An easy trail loops around the lake and the beach has two docks, paddle gear rentals, and a PFD loaner station.

Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene): Hike the trail, which can be a bit rocky and rugged for little kids, but you don’t need to go far to find a small sandy beach spot for private playtime. Hike in with all of your stuff, but you’ll need to hike back to the trailhead to use a porta-potty. (Restroom available at nearby McEuen Park.) Other nearby swim settings are Sanders Beach or City Beach.

WASHINGTON

Bear Lake Regional Park (Chattaroy): Hike the trail around the lake. Trees and grass hug the shoreline, so there isn’t a beach—rather, there are cement steps down to the water, which starts at a depth of about three feet. However, there are some spaces between trees to access the water.

Fish Lake & Columbia Plateau Trail State Park (Cheney): Walk the paved trail and enjoy the calm lake, popular with locals for fishing, paddling, and beach play for kids. Park at Fish Lake Park and then walk up to the state park trailhead.

Liberty Lake Regional Park (Liberty Lake): The park has miles of trails to choose from and the day-use beach—though a smaller lakefront compared to other parks—has great sand, a dock and roped-off swim area, and plenty of lake for paddling. Spokane County Parks daily fee required.

Waterfront Park (Medical Lake): A popular park with a main parking lot that fills quickly, but the layout is sweet and lake water is spring-fed, so relatively warmer than larger lakes. Walk the paved Medical Lake Trail along the west shore.

This story was published in the Inland NW Family Outdoors Guide in the May-June 2021 issue.

For more swimming stories, visit the OTO archives.

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1. Plan ahead. Check websites and trail reports to be sure that there aren’t any trail closures.  

2. Dress for the weather. Check the weather report and stay warm, dry, and comfortable, especially with outerwear, insulating socks, and waterproof footwear.  

3. Expect mud. Even if it hasn’t rained or snowed recently, forested trails can still be muddy or even have patches of snow or ice. Stay on trails to avoid widening them. 

4. Travel prepared. Bring water bottles, snacks/lunch, first-aid kit, TP roll and plastic bags to pack-out any waste or trash. Depending on the weather, bring warm hats, extra gloves or socks (or even an entire change of clothes for kids), and handwarmer packets. Bring along a paper or digital trail map and make sure your cell phone is charged for emergencies. 

5. Keep a flexible mindset. Kids don’t want a sufferfest. They want to meander and explore; pick up sticks and rocks; look for insects and wildlife tracks; and don’t really care about the view or final destination.  

Amy McCaffree is the Out There Kids columnist and grew up free-range on a small family farm near Seattle. She lives in Spokane with her husband and their two children.

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According to the Child Mind Institute, “In natural environments, we practice an effortless type of attention known as soft fascination that creates feelings of pleasure, not fatigue.” This is why hiking in a wild setting away from traffic and urban distractions works better to reduce stress and fatigue. (Learn more: “Why Kids Need to Spend Time in Nature“)

Try these Inland Northwest hikes that can be tailored for different hiking abilities. Explore a new trail and find some unplugged, wild serenity this spring. 

Spokane Area 

• McKenzie Conservation Area: Explore the 2-mile, self-guided Geology Walking Tour, which includes Turtle Rock, at this conservation area near Newman Lake. Spokanecounty.org. 
• James T. Slavin Conservation Area: Easy, flat trails here will inspire kids to run and explore this area southwest of the city, off Highway 195. Explore rolling pastures, grassy meadows and wetlands, lake and pond shorelines, and pine and fir forest. Look for wildflowers, waterfowl, and other wildlife. Spokanecounty.org. 
• High Drive Bluff: Located on the west edge of Spokane’s South Hill, this designated natural area features ponderosa pine forests and bunchgrass meadows. Three trails that are good for kids are Polly Judd, Murungu’s, and Ponderosa—each one traverses the steep hillside without too much elevation loss and gain. All are accessible from the trailhead at S. Cedar Street & 29^th Ave. There are another five trailheads, including Polly Judd Park which has a playground. Use the map from Friendsofthebluff.org. 
• Dishman Hills: Pond Loop Trail and Deep Ravine Loop Trail are two easy hiking routes, recommended by Spokane mom and OTO contributor Carol Corbin. Basalt rock and water features will engage kids’ interest and curiosity. Start from Camp Caro, where there is a kiosk trail map, restrooms, and playground. Dishmanhills.org. 

Coeur d’Alene 

• Blue Creek Recreation Site: Located within Wallace Forest Conservation Area, this site is managed by U.S. Bureau of Land Management and has nearly 5 miles of trails with two trailheads. For hiking with young children, start from the day use/picnic area to hike out and back along the Blue Trail. Or start hiking on the Blue Trail from the trailhead on Yellowstone Trail Road. Some trails may still be closed in March 2021 because of an ongoing forest management project. Blm.gov. 
• Fernan Lake Natural Area: Hiking trails on Potlatch Hill are still a work-in-progress, but so far there are three short loops. More info at Cdaid.org.  

Sandpoint 

• Pend d’ Oreille Bay Trail: Recommended by Sandpoint mom and OTO contributor Ammi Midstokke, this flat, out-and-back 3-mile trail—simply called Bay Trail by locals—travels along Lake Pend Oreille from City Beach. Pobtrail.org. 

• Mineral Point Trail: Midstokke also recommends this popular national forest trail south of Sandpoint for scenic views of Lake Pend Oreille. The point-to-point Mineral Point Trail #82 is 2.1 miles with the southern trailhead at Green Bay Campground. Fs.usda.gov. 

Want to learn about more recommended hiking destinations for kids and families? Check out these stories from our archives.

• Best Hiking Trails for Kids & Strollers (April 2018)
• 5 Favorite Family Hikes for Lakeside Fun Near Spokane (April 2019)
• Hiking with Dogs & Family Pets (June 2018)
• Hiking for Huckleberries with Kids (April 2020)
• Downtown Spokane’s Urban Wildlife Hikes (May 2017)
• Family Trail Adventures Along the Spokane River (May 2016)

[Feature Photo: Hiking at Slavin Conservation Area. Photo: Amy McCaffree]

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Even with shorter days and falling temperatures, the Spokane region is rich in natural beauty, and whether you’re looking for vibrant colors, or more of a winter-wonderland atmosphere, there’s something for every hiking aficionado. Here are a few of my favorite local late-season hikes. 

James P. Slavin Conservation Area – Nature Park Loop – 2.4 miles 

Located just south of Spokane, this trail covers a range of landscapes, from forests to wetlands to prairie. Birdwatchers can glimpse a range migrating wildfowl, including Canada geese and sandhill cranes, and the wide-open horizon captures the sweeping grandeur of the neighboring Palouse. A great trail for older hikers and families with kids. 

Antoine Peak Conservation Area – Antoine Peak Loop – 4.8 miles 

This trail takes hikers up through dense woodlands, culminating in views of the Dishman Hills, Mount Spokane, Mica Peak, and even northern Idaho. Deer sightings are common this time of year, and the summit of this trail offers a visual feast of snow-capped hills and autumn hues. A must for any hiker craving a bit of solitude. 

Mount Spokane State Park – Trail 120 Loop – 2.5 miles 

Hidden in the shadow of Mount Spokane, this hike is more approachable than some others in the area, though trekking poles and good footwear are still recommended. This trail boasts old growth stands of western larch, whose needles turn gold in the fall, bathing the understory in a dreamy light. Coupled with amazing views of Mt. Kit Carson, this hike is bright, brilliant, and perfect for sunny days. This hike may turn into a snowshoe depending on the fall weather. Trail 120 starts across the road from Bear Creek Lodge. A fee is charged by the lodge owner for parking. 

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge – Pine Lake / Headquarters Loop – 1.7 miles 

Situated just east of Cheney, a 20-minute drive from Spokane, Turnbull boasts an extensive network of trails that are well maintained and relatively level, with a broad array of natural wonders to behold. Of particular note is Winslow Pool—a major visual feature of the park, a survey site for Eastern Washington’s Biology department, and a haven for amateur birdwatchers.  

Columbia Plateau Trail – Cheney to Fish Lake – 7.6 miles (out and back) 

Though easily the longest of the trails on this list, it is also one of the most approachable. This hike is part of the Columbia Plateau Trail, which spans 130 miles from Pasco to Cheney, covering much of the south-central part of the state. Its key features include well-paved and bike-friendly paths, numerous scientific displays detailing the regions geological history, and a serene view of Fish Lake. 

Coeur d’Alene – Tubbs Hill Main Trail – 2.5 miles 

While a common misconception holds that the best hikes lie far off the path, many lie tantalizingly close to town. Tubbs Hill, for just one example, presents an appealing option for hikers in Spokane or North Idaho alike. Situated on 130 acres of public land, Tubbs Hill is a popular woodland oasis in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene. It boasts well marked trails, accessible terrain, and stone’s-throw proximity to Coeur d’Alene’s numerous dining and shopping opportunities. Best of all, wintertime hikers will find no more stunning view of Lake Coeur d’Alene and its surrounding forests than on a crisp winter morning or in the midst of a gentle snowfall. 

Originally published as “6 Fall & Early Winter Spokane & CDA Hikes” in the Nov.-Dec. 2020 double issue.

Seth Marlin holds a Creative Writing MFA from Eastern Washington University. He is the author of “Five-Star Trails: Spokane,” out now through Menasha Ridge Press. 

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Here are 5 favorite family-friendly hikes in Eastern Washington and North Idaho:

1. Fishtrap Lake–North: This 4-mi. roundtrip hike offers fantastic views of Fishtrap Lake and descends to the water in two spots. The trail wanders through ponderosa pine and aspen stands, making it perfect for a warm spring day. Wildflowers here are a great way to get young kids actively interested in the trail. WTA has two wildflower guides online (“Wildflowers Mountain,” is a pdf that shows Cascade species but is also applicable to eastern WA; “Wildflower Guide,” shows month-by-month blooms but is more limited). A Northwest Forest Pass is required, $30/annual pass good in WA and OR or $5 for day pass.

2. McKenzie Conservation Area: This property offers 3.3 mi. of trails to wander with a chance to look out over Newman Lake northeast of Spokane. This 420-acre area hosts a network of trails, great wildlife and bird watching, and a native plant garden. No parking fee.

3. Tubbs Hill: Well-known because of its proximity to downtown Coeur d’Alene, this 2.5-mile trail never fails to disappoint. There are remarkable views from the shade of the trees and plenty of opportunities to wander down to the shore and dip your toes in the cool water. Dogs are welcome, and fishing is also allowed. Park along S. 10th St. just before it intersects Lakeshore Dr. as it is often less crowded here (no parking fee). Directions and a Junior Friends of Tubbs Hill Activity Book can be found online at cdaid.org.

4. Revett Lake: At 2.6 miles, roundtrip, this sub-alpine hike just west of the Idaho-Montana border is great for kids. Although there is a bit of elevation gain (915 ft) there is always the promise of something new to see. A waterfall awaits about ¾-mile up the trail at a bridge crossing the creek. The final climb is rewarded with a beautiful sub-alpine lake framed by steep slopes and a view of Granite Peak. The outlet stream to the left of the main trail is mostly swampy meadow, but there is some good rock-hopping and stream-exploring if you go far enough. A brush-choked trail leads to the far end of the lake. Hopeful swimmers be aware that this alpine lake is always very cold. Fishing is allowed, and there is no parking fee. Details can be found in 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest by Rich Landers.

5. Sullivan Lake: Aspen, hemlock, and birch dot the shoreline of this prominent lake in the Colville National Forest. The fairly-flat Lakeshore Trail along the eastside of the lake lets little ones set their own distance, with plenty of opportunities to jump in the water and cool off. The 4-mile trail (one way) goes along the east side of Sullivan Lake connects East Sullivan Campground to the north with Noisy Creek Campground to the south. The best route begins at the trailhead near East Sullivan Campground where you will keep right to find the lakeside trail. Hike out and back, ending the day at the swimming beaches. No parking fee.

For driving directions and further details about hiking destinations within Washington State, visit wta.org.

When she is not editing engineering articles, Crystal Atamian has found that she loves skijoring with her dog, trying new microbrews, and laughing at her sons’ jokes. She wrote about snowshoeing in the December issue.

For more articles about lakes and Inland NW Family Outdoors Guide content, visit the OTO archives.

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WASHINGTON

Bowl & Pitcher Loop / Trail #25, Riverside State Park: After crossing the swinging bridge and going up the steps, turn downriver (right) onto trail #25. Down the steep bank, the river rages wild—enjoy it only with eyes from the safety of the trail. Venture further to see Devil’s Toenail, a huge rock formation jutting out from the middle of the river. After another trail marker, take the next junction to return back where you started (trail #211). Altogether, this makes for a 1.7 mile loop. If with a stroller, take trail #211 downriver, which is wider and has a gentle grade. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/riverside-state-park

Spokane River Trail #100: Trailhead begins off the Centennial Trail around mile 27.5 near the T.J. Meenach Bridge. This forested stretch of land is managed by Riverside State Park, and there’s a parking lot located at the bottom of N. Pettet Drive (no pass required) across the river from the trail (walk across the bridge and down to the trail). Everyone will enjoy this scenic dirt trail, especially in spring when Arrowleaf Balsamroot  flowers are blooming. After about 2 miles, you’ll reach a large river bend, which makes a great destination and turn-around point. In summer, when the river is low, a beach appears at this eddy.  

Little Spokane River Natural Area: The Spokane River Trail begins at Indian Painted Rocks. (Avoid the Knothead Trail loop, which is steep and long.) The Waikiki Springs Trail is suitable for strollers but not beyond the river. Discover Pass required for trailhead parking. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/little-spokane-river

Ben Burr Trail: A 1-mile trail that connects Liberty and Underhill city parks, in Spokane’s east-central area. Stroller friendly. https://www.traillink.com/trail/ben-burr-trail/

Spokane Finch Arboretum: Lots of easy dirt paths to explore and allow toddlers and young kids to wander. Stroller friendly. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/finch-arboretum

People’s Park & Centennial Trail: Located on a peninsula at the confluence of Latah Creek and the Spokane River, People’s Park is only minutes from downtown Spokane but feels miles away. Numerous trails crisscross the wooded area, and you can take Sandifur Bridge (a pedestrian bridge) to access more trails on the north side of the Spokane River. Follow the paved switchback trail uphill to the Centennial Trail. (Although it’s generally a safe park during daytime, be cautious of garbage hazards and possible transient camps.)

Fish Lake Trail: With its tree-lined, shaded, flat route; trailhead restrooms and water fountain; trail markers and benches; and location minutes from downtown Spokane, no wonder this trail is popular with all types of users. Be aware of cyclists and runners, and stay to the right. Explore out and back as far as you like. Stroller friendly. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/columbia-plateau-trail

Columbia Plateau Trail State Park: The closest trailhead to Spokane is located near Fish Lake County Park (Discover Pass required). You can also access a paved 4.75-mile section through Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge from a second trailhead near Cheney on the Cheney-Spangle Road. Stroller-friendly.

Pine Ridge Trail, Kamiak Butte: Though technically a “steptoe,” this 3,641’ geological feature—the second highest point in Whitman County—provides great views of the surrounding Palouse. Trailhead is at Kamiak Butte County Park, near Colfax and Pullman. https://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGW293-044

IDAHO

Priest Lake-Lakeshore Trail: The rolling grade of this smooth, wide trail makes it a wilderness paradise for kids. Located in the Panhandle National Forest along the northwest side of Priest Lake, the south trailhead is near the town of Nordman, and the north trailhead is at Beaver Creek Campground (7.25 trail miles away), which has a great day-use swimming beach.

Deep Creek & Chickadee Trails, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge: Both of these flat trails provide opportunities to spot the over 200 bird species and 45 animal species in the area. Deep Creek Trail is just over 4 miles round-trip, while the paved Chickadee Trail is only 1,000-feet long. Stop by refuge headquarters to pick up a Refuge Explorer Day Pack and animal track cards for children. Stroller-friendly.

Trapper’s Trail, Round Lake State Park: This 1.8-mile forested trail takes you around the lake and through the marsh. Look for skunk cabbage, beaver dens, and a resident moose. Parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Beaver Bay Shoreline Loop Trail, Farragut State Park: This 4-mile loop along Lake Pend Oreille connects with the Beaver Bay Beach swimming area. Additional kid-friendly trails within the park are Squirrel Cache Nature Trail and Willow Lakeview Trail. https://www.outdoorproject.com/adventures/idaho/hikes/beaver-bay-shoreline-trail

Lakeshore Loop & Plummer Creek Trails, Heyburn State Park: Lakeshore Loop is an easy 1.3-mile trail that links Hawley’s Landing Campground to Plummer Creek Trail—an easy, half-mile trail along the creek’s marshland (look for signs of beavers). http://visitnorthidaho.com/activity/576/

More hike details and trailhead directions are available from Washington Trails Association (wta.org) and Washington State Parks. //

Leave No Trace Principles for Kids

• Know Before You Go
• Choose The Right Path
• Trash Your Trash
• Leave What You Find
• Be Careful With Fire
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Kind To Other Visitors
• Learn more at: LNT.org.


Feature photo: Bowl & Pitcher is perfect for toddler led hiking. // Shallan Knowles 

The post Best Hiking Trails with Kids & Strollers appeared first on Out There Venture.

Downriver of Spokane’s urban core, there are convenient hiking and exploration opportunities for children to learn ecology first-hand. The further you go, the wilder it gets, thanks to Riverside State Park. Osprey, heron, geese and other wildlife visit the river, and there are up to 17 fish species that call this river home, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Before you leave home, be sure to pack essential supplies: water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit, toilet paper and plastic bags. Follow Leave No Trace principles and be prepared to pack-out any waste. Carrying a GPS or trail map is also helpful when on an unfamiliar trail.

A general guideline for how far a child can hike is one mile per year of age, when it’s a fairly flat trail, but less mileage when there is elevation gain. Know your child and his or her capabilities. Have fun and respect our region’s beautiful natural resource.

Bowl & Pitcher, Trail #25, at Riverside State Park: While crossing the swinging bridge, admire the rock formations and rapids. Once you reach the other side, go up the steps and turn either upriver (left) or downriver (right) onto trail #25 – either way provides good views of the river as an out-and-back route. For spectacular views of the Bowl & Pitcher, head downriver. Down the steep bank, the river rages wild – enjoy it only from the safety of the trail. As you venture further from the Bowl & Pitcher area, you’ll eventually begin to see Devil’s Toenail, a huge rock formation jutting out from the middle of the river. After another marker for trail #25, you’ll soon see a trail junction – this is #211, though it’s not marked here, and will lead you back to the bridge if you desire (loop distance is 1.7 miles, and #211 is a wider trail with a gentle grade). Or you can venture further along the river on a rocky stretch of trail before heading back. More info: wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/riverside-state-park or find a graphical map of the loop provided by Spokane Regional Health District, srhd.org. 

Spokane River Trail #100: This trail is popular with mountain bikers and hikers alike. The trailhead is around mile 27.5 of the Centennial Trail near Fort George Wright Drive, off the south side of the TJ Meenach Bridge. Downriver Park is the name of this forested stretch of land along the river, though it’s overseen by Riverside State Park. A free parking lot is located at the bottom of N. Pettet Drive (aka Doomsday Hill). Cross the bridge using the pedestrian pathway on the left and link up with the Centennial Trail. Look for the trail #100 marker to the right after passing under the road tunnel. If your children are 6 years or older and strong hikers, I recommend making the large river bend and its beach your destination goal and turn-around point – which is about two miles from the bridge.

Playing Safe on the River

A river has hazardous conditions, including swift currents and undercurrents, large rocks and overhanging tree branches. Closely supervise children. Whenever swimming, wading, floating or paddling in any Washington State river, wearing a PDF is required by law. A safer way to get kids on the water is to sign up for a trip with an outfitter. Both FLOW Adventures (flow-adventures.com) and ROW Adventure Center (rowadventurecenter.com) offer recreation opportunities on the Spokane River, such as guided whitewater rafting (ages 10+, Class I-III rapids), float trips (ages 5+, Class I-II rapids) or tubing gear and shuttle service (ages 5+). //

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