By Rachel Monroe
Hiking is a wonderful family activity that builds lasting memories, connects your kids to nature and ensures you get some time away from your busy schedule at home. As a mom of multiple preschool-age children, I can assure you that hiking with young children is not impossible and can even be fun! Exploring the outdoors has become my kids’ most treasured family activity. There are numerous nature trails and hiking areas around Grays Harbor that are suitable for your tiny toddler. Several of these trails are paved, making it easy for you to bring along a stroller or jogger for tots who tire easily.
Here are a few local spots to get you started on your outdoor adventure.
Friends Landing
Friends Landing can be found on 300 Katon Road just outside the city of Montesano. The park is comprised of 152 acres used for camping, fishing and hiking. The 1.7-mile walk around Lake Quigg is paved and planked, making it ideal for moms or dads with strollers. The picturesque trail takes you through gorgeous forests and wetlands. There are several lookouts and bridges that provide a stunning view of the lake. Interpretative signs are posted along the trail to help you identify wild plants, trees and flowers. Even young children can enjoy learning the names of native plants! The majority of this trail is shaded, so it’s the perfect hike for a warm day.
Friends Landing
300 Katon Rd
Montesano, WA 98563
Twin Harbors State Park
The Twin Harbors State Park in Westport is the ideal spot to enjoy some time at the beach and squeeze in a fun nature walk. Near the campground are numerous sand and dirt trails that weave through the grassy dunes and pine trees. Small signs are posted throughout the area pointing out the walking paths. Wild strawberries and flowers can be seen sprouting along the trail’s edge. The brisk wind and smell of the ocean fill the air, creating a refreshing atmosphere.
Twin Harbors State Park
3120 State Rte 105
Westport, WA 98595
Vance Creek Park
Vance Creek Park is located off Highway 12 in Elma. The trail around Bowers Lake is dotted with trees for shade, beautiful grassy slopes and wildlife. You may see ducks, wild rabbits and various bird species. There are several spots adjacent to the trail where kids can sit and dip their feet in the lake to cool off. (Remember to always keep your eyes on your preschoolers when they are near the water!)Benches are placed strategically along the trail in case your little ones get tired and need a quick break. Because the trail is paved and mostly flat, it is easy to bring a stroller or jogger along.
James Stewart Memorial Park
The James Stewart Memorial Park features a hiking trail that is ideal for preschoolers with a lot of energy. The dirt trail is one mile long and forges through thick woods and wetlands. There are several spots that are steep, but not impossible for a young child. My own preschoolers love this trail. The path is not designed for strollers or baby joggers so if you have a child under 2-years-old, consider a front or back carrying pack. During the summer months you can find ripe salmon berries, black berries and huckleberries along the path. These are always a tasty snack.
James Stewart Memorial Park
2331 North B St
Aberdeen, Washington 98520
Schafer State Park
Although it is located just past the tip of Grays Harbor County and at the entrance of Mason County, Schaffer State Park is still a convenient and pleasant attraction for Grays Harbor residents, boasting a quiet, peaceful setting. Nestled in the Schaffer Forest Trail is a half-mile loop on a dirt path through the cool, mossy forest. Your preschooler will love looking at wildflowers or spotting chipmunks along the trail. Close by are several access points to the Satsop River where you can take your child wading.
Schafer State Park
1365 W Schafer Park Rd
Elma, WA 98541
Tips for Hiking with Preschoolers
When hiking with your preschooler, make sure you bring along water or juice bottles as your little ones are bound to get thirsty during or after their walk. Before starting your hike, give your preschoolers the opportunity to use the restroom to avoid accidents along the trail. This is especially important for children still being potty-trained. Most hiking areas have restrooms or porta potties on-site. Many hiking trails are close to large bodies of water. Do not let your young children go near the water unattended. Keep a close eye on them at all times! Be sure you bring along a snack for the car ride home-your preschoolers will be hungry after running off so much energy.
