Rules of the Road: Teaching Kids Hiking Trail Etiquette

Hiking trail etiquette begins from the first step on the trail through the last great adventure. When kids are young, going for a “hike” usually means walking 10 minutes down the trail, stopping for snacks, chasing butterflies or collecting sticks before turning back around. But, as their little legs get stronger and their ability to adventure farther begins to grow, it is important to teach them how to be respectful of other people, animals and natural elements while enjoying the outdoors. There’s no better resource for this type of education than the National Park Service’s “Hiking Etiquette” blog post, which covers everything from who has the right-of-way to staying on the trail and not disturbing vegetation or wildlife. 

Before you and your little one head out on the trail, check out some other top hiking trail etiquette tips we’ve unpacked for you below: 

Trail Etiquette Starts with Preparation and Awareness

Starting before you venture out, have your kids help you pack and prepare. Ask them to help you pick snacks, appropriate clothing, footwear and anything else you might need. Check out “Trail-Tested Kid-Approved Hiking Snacks” for ideas for great hiking snacks. For kids who get super into hiking, “The Best Hiking Gear for Kids Who Love Adventuring” offers some suggestions on good apparel, backpacks and more. Depending on your child’s age and size, consider having them carry their own backpack or water bottle to learn how to care for personal items in the backcountry. 

Here are the top five trail etiquette tips from the dedicated National Park Service staff who care for and protect America’s wild places. With these tips, you and your little hiker can learn how to play your part in keeping the parks safe, clean and thriving. 

Top Hiking Trail Etiquette Tips

• Be Aware: Kids love to notice and observe so why not use that is a great starting point to teach them about awareness? Have them look around, look for signs, trailheads or markers at the start of any adventure. As adults know, being aware of your surroundings is essential for personal safety. Helping little hikers build their awareness helps them learn how to be safe around other people, during different types of weather and in various environments. Encourage them to point out any signs, maps or notices that may look important. Read the information (or have them read it if they can) so they know what to look out for on the trail. Knowing where you are going is just as important as knowing how to get home. On Colorado’s gorgeous backcountry trails, it can be easy to get distracted and lost, not to mention being surprised by quick-moving thunderstorms. As you move farther away from the trailhead, keeping kids aware of turns, signs, incoming weather or any other changes that may affect their ability to get back safely is an important learning lesson. 

• Stay on the trail: As you begin to head further down the trail, trail etiquette and the rules of the trail itself become important. Most importantly, you and your crew need to stay on the designated trail. Not wandering off trail can be hard for a young, curious mind to wrap their head around. However, as the National Park Service recommends, introduce children early to Leave No Trace principles. These principles include leaving rocks, flowers and vegetation where they are and understanding that what you bring in, like trash or personal items, should always come back out with you. 

• No devices: Nature is for listening, and keeping trails quiet for everyone to enjoy means no devices, music or loud noises as you hike. Plus, it helps with tips number one of being aware. 

• Know the right-of-way: This one can be tricky for kids but teach them when to pull to the side for other hikers, especially those coming uphill or those who may need more space to move through. Hikers always yield to horses; bikers always yield to hikers and horses. 

• Respect wildlife: Spotting animals in their natural habitat can be a magical experience for kids. Teach them not to disturb animals out of respect and safety. 

Colorado Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

Colorado’s trails, rivers and national parks are one of the most wonderful reasons to live here. For recommendations on good starter locations, check out this list of “Toddler-Friendly Hikes Near Denver” from Colorado Hiking Moms. When you and your little ones are ready for more than a hike, check out DPP’s list of Family-Friendly Day Trips or our  guide to Camping with Kids. To keep up on all of the upcoming spring and summer events and activities in and around Denver, make sure to subscribe to our monthly newsletter, Dépêche familiale. Happy hiking!