We just explored Hocking Hills in Ohio with a 2 1/2 year old and 11 month old – and we survived! There was super fun parts, and then the normal toddler / baby life parts that just come with the territory of being a parent. But I have 5 tips for a hiking trip with two littles that might just make you want to hit the trails this weekend!
1. To keep our minds busy, and to look at the world around us more, I made a toddler scavenger hunt! It was simple things like ” look for something smooth” or ” look for something red” The more we played, Sawyer even started to ask US to look for different things!
2. We chose to skip the tent, and get a little cabin in the woods. It had NO internet and NO service. Honestly… best thing ever for our whole family. ( Mainly Jonathan and I ) It gave us time once the kids went to bed, to not have the urge to check that one more email from work.. it was so peaceful! And PS: Beth at Honey Ridge- is amazing!! Check her out on Trip Advisor
3. Let them lead.
You really cant go wrong when you have ONE path, that is a super clear path. And what a better way to show your child you trust them, and that they too have the power to be a leader!
4. Make lots of stops for long car rides.
Every hour or two hours ( if they were not sleeping ) we looked for random signs and places to stop. It gave us all some sanity. On the way down, we stopped at a random farmers market, and on the way home we stopped at a cute little park, and the Toledo Zoo ( yes even in the pouring rain ) to stretch out our legs and get out of the four car walls for a few!
5. JUST DO IT!
There is ALWAYS a reason not to travel with little kids, or go do things with little kids. It’s not all glamorous. But its worth it – and the right time IS NOW to make memories – you dont even have to travel far. Hines Park has some great trails! Kensington Metro park too!
The Late Anthony Bourdain said;
“If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody. Open your mind, get up off the couch. Move.”
Make it a great Friday!
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