There’s a special kind of magic that happens when hiking with toddlers. One minute, your little one is refusing to leave the house—worried about the wind, the bugs, or the mysterious “spooky things” outside—and the next, they’re bounding down the trail, dirt on their knees and joy on their face.

If your toddler is hesitant to go outside but lights up the moment they’re in nature, this is for you.

The Hardest Step is the First One

Starting the day with a toddler who insists they “just want to stay home” can feel discouraging. My daughter often needs time to warm up to the idea of going outside—especially after a long winter spent in cozy routines.

But hiking with toddlers doesn’t have to mean long distances or ambitious peaks. Sometimes, it means ten minutes of wandering a local trail, counting leaves, and spotting squirrels. The most important part is simply beginning.

Make it an Adventure (Even Before You Leave)

For toddlers who are hesitant, the transition from inside to outside can be smoothed with a little creativity and preparation:

• Pack together: Let your toddler help choose their gear—water bottle, hat, and of course, their favorite stuffy.
• Talk about the plan: Explain what they’ll see, smell, and do. This helps reduce fear of the unknown.
• Name your hike: A “rock rescue mission” or “forest explorer adventure” sparks curiosity and gives purpose to the outing.

Start Small, Repeat Often

When you’re new to hiking with toddlers, the key is to start small and stay flexible. Repeat the same short trail a few times to help build familiarity. Toddlers love to feel like they’re the expert—and when they know what’s coming next, they feel safer and braver.

On the trail, let them set the pace. Stop for every bug. Sit on every rock. This isn’t about mileage—it’s about connection and confidence.

What Works for Us

These simple strategies have made hiking with toddlers a joy (most days):

• Bring snacks: A favorite treat can turn a meltdown around in seconds.
• Let them lead: Giving toddlers control over direction, even in small ways, empowers them.
• Comfort items welcome: That favorite stuffy can tag along in a backpack or pocket to provide reassurance.

The Joy is Worth It

Once we’re outside, my daughter blossoms. She runs, climbs, sings, and exclaims, “I’m strong, Mama!” That transformation—from anxious to adventurous—makes every ounce of effort worthwhile.

So if hiking with toddlers feels overwhelming, remember: the goal isn’t perfection. It’s presence. And with each small step, you’re showing your child that the world is beautiful, safe, and theirs to explore.

Need help finding family friendly trails? Check out AllTrails to find hikes in your area and filter by difficulty, including family friendliness!