How to Keep Kids Engaged on the Trail

How to Keep Kids Engaged on the Trail (Without Screens)

We’ve all been there. You’ve packed the snacks, checked the weather, laced up everyone’s boots — and mere minutes into the hike, someone’s dragging their feet and asking if it’s nearly over. The truth is, hiking with kids can be magical and mildly chaotic — often in the same ten minutes.

But with the right approach (and maybe a few secret tricks up your sleeve), hiking can become something they genuinely enjoy — not just endure. And no, you don’t need screens or devices to keep them entertained. The bush is full of stories, surprises, and space for imagination — we just have to help them tune into it.

Here are our go-to tips for keeping kids engaged on the trail — unplugged, curious, and maybe even leading the way.

1. Let Them Take the Lead

There’s something empowering about being in charge — even if it’s just for a short stretch.

• Let them lead the group for a while
  
  
• Ask them to spot trail markers or choose which direction at a fork (when safe)
  
  
• Encourage them to set the pace — slow and steady is fine!
  
  

2. Turn the Hike Into a Game

Kids love a challenge. Turning the walk into a game adds a sense of purpose and fun.

Try:

• Scavenger Hunts (find a smooth rock, a leaf with holes, something fuzzy)
  
  
• Trail Bingo (make a simple bingo sheet with things they might see or hear)
  
  
• I Spy with My Little Eye — bush edition!
  
  

3. Follow Their Curiosity (Even if It’s Slower)

Kids are naturally curious — and they notice things adults breeze past. Let them explore safely.

• Stop to watch a beetle or listen to a bird
  
  
• Let them touch bark, smell flowers, poke around (gently) in leaf litter
  
  
• Answer their questions — even if it means lots of stops
  
  

4. Bring a Notebook or Nature Journal

Some kids love drawing what they see, writing trail notes, or collecting ideas for stories. A small notebook and pencil can turn a hike into a creative mission.

Ideas include:

• Drawing different leaves or bugs
  
  
• Writing “field notes” like a scientist
  
  
• Making up a story about a mysterious tree or hidden cave
  
  

5. Share Trail Tales and Bush Lore

You don’t need to be an expert — just bring a sense of wonder.

• Tell a story about a “trail troll” who lives under the bridge
  
  
• Make up legends about ancient trees or giant wombats
  
  
• Share real facts about native plants or animals
  
  

6. Schedule Snack Breaks Like Milestones

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again — snacks are everything.

• Plan regular snack stops as rewards: “Let’s walk to that big rock and have a break.”
  
  
• Let them carry their own snack pouch (more ownership = more interest)
  
  
• Make snack breaks fun: spread out a mini picnic or have a “trail mix lucky dip”
  
  

7. Keep it Kid-Sized (and Know When to Call It)

Sometimes it’s not about how engaged they are — they’re just tired. Choose hikes that match their energy levels and attention spans.

• Pick shorter, loop-style tracks with plenty to see
  
  
• Stop before they’re exhausted (leave them wanting more!)
  
  
• Be okay with turning back early if the vibe’s not right
  
  

Final Thoughts

Hiking with kids doesn’t need to be perfect — just meaningful. When we slow down, let them explore, and lean into the small moments, we open the door for kids to connect with the bush in their own way.

And honestly? Some of our favourite hikes haven’t been the longest or most scenic — they’ve been the ones where a stick became a sword, a puddle became an ocean, and a kid looked up at a tree and said, “Wow.”

That’s the good stuff.