Make Summer Hikes Exciting with a Scavenger Hunt

GET KIDS EXCITED ABOUT BOTH THE JOURNEY AND THE DESTINATION!

After many families have been staying indoors for months, heading outside for a summer hike can provide a much-needed break and learning experience for all. As long as you practice social distancing and follow government guidelines for your area, summer hikes can be a safe activity and a fun shared adventure. Incorporating a scavenger hunt into your summer hike can add competition for older kids and an “I Spy” element for younger kids to keep everyone engaged and excited about both the journey and the destination. Encourage kids to document their findings using drawings, on the checklist provided below, or for older children, by taking photographs.

A SUMMER HIKE CAN HELP CHILDREN AND FAMILIES:

• Learn about and observe wildlife and the outdoors.
• Experience independence and build self-confidence.
• Shift everyone’s mood.
• Provide connection with people rather than devices.
• Build balance and agility through exercise.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

The National Park Service offers tips for hiking with kids including 10 essentials to bring along to ensure your hike is a success.

Click here to download a free Summer Hike Scavenger Hunt List.