Your complete guide to keeping kids safe on the trail. Because every great adventure starts with preparation.
Every family should know these rules before hitting the trail. Review them together and make safety a shared responsibility.
Children should never hike alone. Maintain a buddy system and ensure at least one experienced adult is present. Discuss trail plans before starting and establish check-in points along the way. For groups, assign a lead and sweep adult to keep everyone accounted for.
Before every hike, share your itinerary with someone not on the trip. Include trail name, expected start and end times, number of hikers, and emergency contact numbers. Consider using a GPS tracker or trail app that shares your location in real-time.
Every hike requires: navigation tools, sun protection, insulation (extra layers), illumination (headlamp), first aid kit, fire starter, repair tools, nutrition (extra food), hydration (extra water), and emergency shelter. Adapt quantities for trip length and conditions.
Choose trails appropriate for the youngest and least experienced member of your group. Plan for a pace of about 1 mile per hour for young children. Factor in rest breaks every 20-30 minutes and turn back if anyone feels unwell, tired, or if weather changes.
Never leave the marked trail. Wandering off-trail increases the risk of getting lost, encountering dangerous terrain, disturbing wildlife, and damaging fragile ecosystems. Teach kids to recognize trail markers and blazes.
Check forecasts before departure and watch for changing conditions. Learn to recognize signs of approaching storms. Know that mountain weather can change rapidly. Have a turn-back plan if conditions deteriorate. Never hike during lightning storms.
Observe animals from a safe distance (at least 100 feet for large animals). Never feed wildlife. Store food properly in bear canisters where required. Know what to do if you encounter bears, snakes, or other potentially dangerous animals. Teach kids to stay calm and back away slowly.
Carry more water than you think you'll need. Teach kids to drink regularly, not just when thirsty. Never drink untreated water from streams or lakes. Know the signs of dehydration: headache, dizziness, dark urine, fatigue. In hot weather, increase water intake significantly.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) before hiking and reapply every 2 hours. Wear hats with brims and UV-protective clothing. Take shade breaks during peak sun hours (10am-2pm). Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Teach kids the STOP principle: Sit, Think, Observe, Plan. Carry a whistle for each child (three blasts = universal distress signal). Know basic first aid. Have emergency numbers saved offline on your phone. Consider a personal locator beacon for remote hikes.
Check off items as you pack. Your progress is saved automatically so you can come back anytime.
Save these numbers before you head out. In an emergency, every second counts.
911 — Call for life-threatening emergencies, serious injuries, or if someone is lost and in danger. Works on all cell phones, even without a plan.
1-800-222-1222 — Call immediately if a child ingests unknown berries, plants, mushrooms, or any potentially toxic substance found on the trail.
1-202-208-3818 — For park-specific information, trail closures, and ranger assistance. Check individual park websites for local emergency numbers before your trip.
Dial 911 or local SAR — If someone is lost or stranded, contact search and rescue immediately. Note your GPS coordinates if possible. Stay put and signal with a whistle or mirror.
weather.gov — Check the National Weather Service for real-time forecasts, radar, and severe weather warnings for your hiking area before and during your trip.
1-800-733-2767 (American Red Cross) — For first aid guidance in non-life-threatening situations. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app for offline access on the trail.