As an outdoors person and a parent, one of the most rewarding things you can do is introduce your kids to hiking. Many of us grew up with hiking as a normal part of our childhood and understand that our deep love for outdoor activities began when we were quite small ourselves.

If you’re a parent and you’d like to know more about introducing your kids to hiking, or you’re not yet a parent, and you’d like to know if you can continue your outdoor pursuits after kids, we’ve got some ideas for you.

 

1. Start early! Many parents continue regular hikes when their babies are still very small and can be carried in a wrap or pack. Keep hiking as the baby grows, and they won’t even think twice about why they’re in the middle of the woods, instead they’ll feel at home.
2. Over Prepare. You may not be able to go ultralight for a few years. Kids come with a lot of accessories. We’re not above bribing the kids with treats along the trail and we recommend more snacks than usual— snacks are fun!. Also make sure you bring plenty of water. Turn breaks and water stops into a game.
3. Make sure the kids have properly fitting equipment, too. From boots to waterproof jackets, maybe their own backpack, flashlight or compass, it’s always fun for kids to get new things and they will be eager to test them out. A first-aid kit is an essential thing to bring too, and consider the needs of your child. They may want a particular toy or article of clothing, so prepare for it.
4. Be Realistic. At different stages in life, children have vastly different attention spans, and they also have limited endurance. Be realistic about how much a child can take on, and keep your expectations in check. You’re not there to break any records or get a super hard workout in. This is about being present and mindful with your child.
5. Bring your patience. Don’t be discouraged if very small kids don’t want to go very far, whine a lot or complain. Try to keep them entertained with fun outdoor activities, like identifying animal sounds, identifying as many colors as possible, or bringing a checklist of things to see in a sort of natural scavenger hunt. It will take time to build distance, but the more you get out there, the more the kids will rise to the occasion and eventually you’ll find they will beg you to go hike!
6. Boost their confidence. One way to encourage children in the outdoors is to let them be in charge. Let them follow the route on a map, or allow them to choose the trail. Let them choose when and where to stop. Be enthusiastic about their choices and optimistic about the day, and it will help keep everyone’s mood afloat.

Having children absolutely does not mean the end of your freedom, or your outdoor lifestyle. Raising kids to get outside has many benefits: a respect for nature and a love for being outside. It will instill in them a confidence, and they’ll develop instincts and a trust for their own intuition. There are of course, physical health benefits to establishing an athletic foundation as well. Remember that nature makes a great playground, for both you and your children.

 

 

Even if you are just planning on going for a brief half-day excursion at a nearby hiking area, there are a few essentials that you will need to make sure that you pack along with you. Your backpacking packing list should consist of the following items on any hiking day.

 

A waterproof shell jacket

 

Weather can be highly variable. Even if you’ve checked – and double-checked – the day’s weather forecast, there is always the risk of a brief downpour or rain storm. As a result, it’s best to pack along a waterproof shell jacket. Many of these jackets can be rolled up and stored very compactly, all without taking up a lot of weight in your backpack.

 

Additional layers of clothing

 

If you are hiking at higher altitudes, you’ll need to pack along additional layers of clothing. Having a fleece jacket, for example, could be the key to staying comfortably warm throughout your hike. Just make sure it’s easy to remove on the trail. Some people prefer the pullover fleece, but for maximum ventilation and ease of wear, you might want to consider layers that can be zipped and unzipped as needed. What to wear hiking can change depending on the climate and weather, but dressing in layers is the best possible strategy.

 

Comfortable, durable socks

 

Many people forget about their feet, but having the right pair of hiking socks can make a huge difference. If you pop into the local adventure store, you’ll often see specific socks that have been designed for trail hiking – they have extra support in high-stress areas and are made of materials that are designed to breathe better and wick away moisture and sweat. Yes, you can wear your standard gym socks with a pair of hiking boots – but you’ll probably regret it later.

 

Yatta Life Water Proof Socks Coming Soon!!!  Reach out us to be put on the preorder list.

High energy snacks for hiking

 

When it comes to the right food to bring backpacking, you have plenty of options. It’s best to bring foods that can provide a quick boost of energy along the way. Everyone has their favourite high energy snacks for hiking, but some of the best are energy bars from Xact Nutrition Products. They come in several different flavors and varieties (such as energy fruit bars and protein wafer bars), so you can find one that you enjoy and pack along a few.

 

Water

 

Most hiking backpacks now have mesh compartments designed for water bottles, so it’s easy to keep them nearby and easy to find while out on the trail. Take along as much water as you can. Of course, there are trade-offs here, since water = weight. However, if you are staying hydrated on your hike, you’ll be steadily making your pack lighter and lighter the more water that you consume.

 

First-aid supplies

 

Finally, don’t forget to pack along a trail first-aid kit. You never know if you or someone in your hiking group will have an accident along the way. You might also want to think about packing a few supplies – like duct tape, twist ties and waterproof plastic bags – that can be used in a myriad of different ways.

 

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When deciding what to pack for hiking, it certainly pays to do a little thinking in advance. You might be tempted to just grab your favourite hiking shoes, toss in a pair of ice spikes to your backpack (on wintry days), and head out the door. But often it’s the small things – like high energy snacks to take the edge off hunger on the trail – that can make a day in nature truly enjoyable.

Many people assume that a winter hike is the same as a summer hike, only in colder temperatures. But those colder temperatures - as well as the potential for snow, sleet, ice and freezing rain - dramatically change the way you should prepare for a hike during the coldest months of winter. Here are 5 tips for taking your winter hike from good to great.

 

Tip #1: Always dress in layers

 

Dressing in layers is not optional in winter. The reason is simple: temperatures can differ greatly, especially at the summit and at the base. Moreover, moisture and cold temperatures can quickly bring an end to your hike or trek if you are not prepared. When dressing in layers, be sure to wear (or pack) waterproof pants, a light fleece, and a soft shell jacket. And while you’re at it - don’t forget to stash an extra fleece in your backpack.

 

Tip #2: Make safety a priority

 

Safety should not be an afterthought, or something that you only practice when it is too late. Instead, take time to study your trail map in advance, be sure to pack an emergency first-aid kit, and bring along some extra tools - like a pocketknife or compass - that could come in handy later.

 

Tip #3: Pack a set of ice cleats or crampons

 

You never know where you are going to encounter a slick patch of ice on the trail, or where you might need to pass through a snowy road. To ensure that your footing is as secure as possible, think about packing a pair of stainless steel ice cleats, such as those sold by Yatta Life. These ice grips are specifically designed to dig into frozen surfaces, giving you safe passage. Best of all, they slip on and off easily, and can be stored safely in your backpack when you don’t need them.

 

Tip #4: Invest in quality gear

 

As you might have guessed from Tip #3 above, it pays to invest in the right gear for the types of unpredictable weather conditions you might encounter on a trail. Thus, while it’s good to have a soft shell jacket with you, it’s great if that soft shell jacket also happens to be waterproof. When you’re out on a winter hike - and especially in a location that is not familiar to you - it’s important to be able to trust your gear.

 

Tip #5: Be ready to change plans on a moment’s notice

 

Often, getting to the top is not the problem - it’s getting back down that’s the real difficulty. That’s why it pays to think ahead and anticipate changing trail and mountain conditions. If you are checking the weather and see that snow is on the way sooner than expected, now might be a good time to turn back. It all depends on whether you’ve packed the right gear and how experienced you are. For example, temperatures plummeting to below freezing might scare off inexperienced hikers, but might not dampen the enthusiasm of experienced hikers with ice traction systems for their boots.

 

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Finally, the best advice is probably the most practical advice - adjust your trail and distance according to the season. A 5-kilometer route in the middle of summer when you have little gear with you is very different than a 5-kilometer route in the middle of winter, when you might only have very limited visibility. With these five tips, however, you’ll be prepared for anything that Mother Nature throws your way.

If you are one the adventurous type, you may enjoy camping in the winter, don’t allow the weather to spoil the thrill and fun that accompanies an adventure camping activity. Because winter camping can bring an entirely new element to the activity of camping. Not only do you see the great outdoors in a totally different light, but it also offers various challenges from summer camping. Although winter camping can be highly challenging, can prove a dangerous endeavor if campers are not fully prepared for the hardships brought on by the cold weather. However, winter camping is less frequent but a great delight for those who enjoy the snow and more freezing temperatures. The chances of seeing wildlife can be greater since deer, moose, and other creatures have to forage at lower altitudes to get adequate food.

However, planning ahead is important, and it involves having the correct supplies for winter camping, as this can, at times, have a level of danger not present аt оthеr times of the year. Things to bear in mind include rаріd changes in the weather, although cool when you leave to hike tо уоur destination and within minutes a winter storm can blow up. Dress appropriately in layers for winter camping. Avoid wearing cotton. Cotton dоеѕ nоt dry quickly and retains the water against your skin causing you to become even colder with the added risk of hypothermia developing.

Wear or carry gloves and have them attached to your jacket to prevent losing them. Lightweight glove liners can be added for extra warmth. For winter camping trips always wear nylon or wool clothing. Wool should be used for socks. Dress in layers starting with a thin layer of clothing against your skin. There are some sport-wool fabrics that are used in long johns, next to a warm layer of clothing that may be a fleece type material and finally a quick-drying outer layer from a material like nylon or goretex. Always wear woolen socks to keep the feet dry and comfortable.

One of the most important pieces of winter camping equipment is plastic double boots. When you hit the highest reaches, you will be dealing with ice and snow. These boots have a hard plastic outer shell that protects the feet from water and other forms of moisture. The inner shell is made of a soft insulating material that protects the feet. Make sure you size these boots properly. Due to the stiff outer shell, they do not break in like most other forms of footwear. Wear thick hiking socks while trying the boots on in order to get the best fit. Make sure nothing rubs or pinches. Boots must be water repellent or have a protective coating to keep them from absorbing water.

Thus, testing your hardiness is a fun part of camping, but being wet, cold and windblown is not. Planning ahead is essential even if you are not having an intention of any vertical climbing, as a harness is something you need to have with you. When on a mountain, there are points along the way where you might walk near an edge. Guide ropes help keep everyone safe. The harness clicks into those guide ropes. If you are going to travel over ice, Yatta life trail spikes crampon ice grips are essential pieces of winter camping equipment. These spiked devices clamp on over your regular boots. The spikes help you grab the ice with the soles of your boots. You also need the traditional mountaineering ice ax known as a piolet.

Make sure to bring your winter tent that will stand up to strong winds, will repel all forms of precipitation and be able to withstand a heavy fall of snow. Additionally, come along with a sleeping bag that is made to withstand the deep freeze of winter. Hence, many mummy-type bags are hot and designed to withstand temperatures of 10 degrees and below. Foam underlays mау аlѕо bе a useful addition to keep the sleeping bag off the ground and away from moisture. The pad can also be used to ѕіt on during the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you plan to spend any time outdoors this winter, it’s never too early to start thinking about winter traction – especially if you enjoy outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, hiking and mountaineering. While many people tend to think of “winter traction” as being a one-size-fits-all type of option, there are actually several different options that you have, depending on the type of terrain you are facing.

If you’re going to be in deep powder…

If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, you probably know the thrill and excitement of carving through fresh powder. However, if you’re trying to walk through that deep powder, you’re going to have problems because without the right winter traction, you’ll sink right into the deep snow, maybe all the way up to your knees. And then moving through that powder is going to require a significant amount of energy.

The solution here is a snowshoe that essentially lets you “float” or “glide” above the surface of the loose, powdery snow. The extra bonus here is that some models of snowshoes have a crampon system built-in and integrated as part of the snowshoe. This helps you navigate slick, icy terrain that might have just received a fresh day’s worth of powder.

Buying recommendation:  Tubbs Flex VRT

If you’re going to be traveling along icy, rocky terrain or along a mountainside…

Anytime you encounter a mix of ice and rock, you’re going to need the deepest penetration possible. This calls for crampons, which are sometimes referred to as ice spikes. The name says it all – they are metal spikes designed to dig into a hard, packed surface and give you plenty of winter traction.

Moreover, any time you are climbing up an angled surface (such as a hill or mountain), you will want to use crampons. As soon as you see these crampons, you’ll instantly recognize how useful they can be – they are essentially thick metal spikes that can give you much surer footing and maximize your safety.

There’s just one issue here, of course, and that’s that they can require a lot of time and energy to use. You’re going to be slowed down as you travel, and you’re going to expend a lot of energy. If you think about this, it makes sense, right? Unlike the snowshoe solution, you are literally digging into a hard, packed surface with every single step.

Buying recommendation:  Irvis Crampon Flexlock 000 by Petz

 

 

 If you’re going to be hiking through hard, packed snow or ice…

As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to use trailspikes (sometimes called snow cleats or shoe spikes) any time you’re traveling along hard, packed snow or icy trails. The trailspike traction system helps you establish your footing, and are much more effective than traditional winter boots.

If you’re having a hard time imagining what a trailspike traction system looks like, the best analogy involves your car’s tires. Once it starts snowing outside, you probably put on thick winter treads that are able to grip the snow. The tires have a bit of give to them, which slows you down a bit, but it results in a smooth ride over snowy roads. When things get really icy and treacherous outside, though, it’s time to start thinking about the winter tire chains. Well, the trailspikes are analogous to those winter tire chains, right down to the way they can be fitted over a traditional boot tread.

Buying recommendation: Yatta Life Trailspikes

 

As you can see, you have a variety of options when it comes to getting the best possible winter traction. Your first option is probably to reach for the trailspikes, but for particularly icy and rocky conditions, you’ll want a set of professional mountaineering crampons. And if you find yourself in a lot of open powder, you’ll want to think in terms of snowshoes that will help you to glide effortlessly over the surface.

Cover Photo by: Andrew Robles 

Part of the Titanium line, this fully seam sealed down jacket solves all your problems: it’s exceptionally warm without being heavy or bulky, and it’s as waterproof-breathable as it gets. We combined 800-fill power goose down insulation that’s been treated for water resistance with our innovative OutDry™ Extreme technology, the first-ever waterproof and breathable fabric constructed with a rugged, long-lasting waterproof layer on the outside and soft, wicking fabric inside. Finally, a waterproof, down-insulated rain jacket. This cold and wet stopping coat features 2-way pit vents, a 2-way front zipper, contoured cuffs for better coverage at top of hand, and a snap-back powder skirt to seal out wayward snow on those super deep days. This product is made with 100% responsibly sourced down. Columbia Sportswear Company is committed to ensuring the highest industry animal welfare guidelines.

ARC'TERYX MEN'S THORIUM 

NORTH FACE MORPH JACKET 

800 Fill Power Hutterite White Goose Down. Down origin: North America. Down hood with stretch binding around opening for enhanced warmth and fit. Reflective tape on back of hood for added visibility in low light. Quilt-through design keeps this layer lightweight, easy to move in and reduces pack size. Tensile-Tech™ fabric under arms and side panels for extended comfort and maximized fiT. Stretch cuff binding with thumbloops help sleeves stay put and make layering easy. Packs into left exterior pocket for easy storage in unpredictable weather and doubles as a travel pillow. 

Are you a passionate hiker with a case of wanderlust? There are hiker’s paradises all over the world that allow you to explore your passion and explore new places, landscapes, scenery and cultures. The best hiking trails in the world are places that will make for an incredible journey, a physical and mental challenge that will push you beyond your boundaries and let you explore the deep beauty of the earth in its various forms. Here are multi-day hiking places to add on to your bucket list for an unforgettable experience:

1) Appalachian Trail, USA

This trail is through a wilderness covering up to 3500 kilometers with numerous access points along it making it a great trail to hike for days, nights or just a few hours. The trail is far from civilization and is best tackled in the spring and autumn. It challenges all skill levels depending on which section you choose to hike. There is a lot more of details about hiking the Appalachian Trail in guidebooks and it makes for one of the best places to go hiking around the world.

2) Inca Trail, Peru

Want to combine hiking with cool sightseeing through an archaeological site? The Inca Trail offers a 3 to 4 day trek through ancient sites, mountain passes and rocky paths- the trail used by royal Incas when going through the Andean mountains. Starting from Cuzco, it is not only a great way to reach the archaeological site Macchu Picch but also offers stunning views of the white tips of th mountains, ruins in the cliffs and a high cloud forest.

3) Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

The highest mountain in Africa in a spectacular country full of breathtaking scenery and teeming with wildlife, climbing the Mount Kilimanjaro is an entry in many hikers’ bucket list.  The trail lasts for at least five days and goes through the rainforest, plateaus and peaks with snow and glaciers once you gain high altitude. It should be avoided during the rainy season spanning March to May. Since it is a challenging trail posing risks from the weather and wildlife, a guide is advisable and you should choose the more popular routes such as the Marangu Route if you do not want to completely be in isolation.

4) Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

An ancient route, this circuit is regarded as one of the most spectacular places to hike. The circuit takes 15-25 days to complete and altitudes can go as high as 18000 feet. There are many hotels on the way and great views of towering peaks and at summit passes such as Poon Hill and Thorung La respectively.

5) Fjordland, New Zealand

If you have watched “The Lord of the Rings,” among other epic and picturesque movies, then you can appreciate the scenes shot in New Zealand. This area makes for a great walk with the mystic mountains and landscapes a hiker’s paradise indeed.