Many Norwegians grow up with a strong connection to the outdoors, and some go hiking even before they learn to walk, thanks to child carriers. We use the word “friluftsliv” to describe our outdoor lifestyle and nature’s power to cure stress and make a bad day brighter. But what’s the secret to making hiking trips with children a success?
Alexander Read, an experienced hiker and father of two, knows a few things about that. Norwegians know him from the Instagram duo «Mina og meg» (Mina and me), where he shares snapshots from adventures with his daughter Mina Floriana. Together, they’ve explored the unspoilt wilderness of Norway on both short and long expeditions.
These are Alexander’s 10 best hiking tips for parents who want to go hiking with their children.
1. Make it simple
Start simple! You don’t have to walk through a national park, start a campfire, cook on a Primus stove, and put up a tent, all on your first trip. Try one thing at a time. Practice assembling the tent at home (so you know how it works), and pack in advance so that everything is ready the day before you leave.
2. Make the trip a family project
Start by saying “we’re going on an adventure together”, as opposed to “I’m taking my children on a hiking trip.” Allow the kids to take part in the planning – let them have a say in everything from what you’ll be doing to what they can bring, like clothes, books, toys, and food.
3. Explain what will happen
Help the children paint a mental picture of how the trip will unfold. Let them know what the terrain looks like and what you will be doing during the hike, for instance where you’ll have your lunch break.
It is also a good idea to have a chat about situations that can arise, like what you’ll do if they get tired. That way, you can remind them of how you agreed to handle this.
4. Put the youngest in front
That way, you’ll have more control and you can easily notice if the kids get tired, fall over or wander off. Allow them to explore the things that spark their curiosity, while they learn to take responsibility.
5. Enjoy the moment
Reaching the final destination isn’t the most important thing. Focus on what it will take for everyone to be present and happy in the moment. Prepare alternative routes, just in case the weather, wind or even the mood call for a change of plans.
And remember – it is much better to stop or turn around in time, instead of having a bad experience. That way, it’s easier to preserve the magic of hiking.
6. Let the children have a say
Ask the little ones how they feel from time to time – and listen to them. That way, you can adjust the length of your hike or take a break, maybe even enjoy some chocolate. This will give the kids a voice and allow them to make decisions where they can.
7. Reconnect with your inner child
Surprise yourself by taking breaks and pause for a minute, even if you’re not tired.
Wow – look – a giant anthill. A rock that looks like a troll! Really see the wonders of nature. It will put your mind at ease while you also invite the children in, to explore and play. That way, they get to think about something other than just reaching the destination.
8. Wear the right clothes
Bring clothes according to the weather report, but make sure to check the forecast for the entire day – weather can change in the blink of an eye.
It is also smart to prepare some answers for why your kids can’t change their rainwear for shorts. Because let’s face it – they’ll be much more reluctant to put their rainwear back on after they’ve taken it off.
9. Have things easily available
You’ll never regret that you took the time to pack smart. Make sure you can easily reach food, water, snacks, and extra clothes (like hats and mittens), should you or the kids need it.
10. If you forget all of the above …
… remind yourself why you’re on this adventure. It’s not about whether or not the campfire was a success, or if you reached your planned destination and put up a tent – or even if you had to turn around. The most important thing is how everyone feels when you’re outdoors and connecting with nature.
Get to know the concept of friluftsliv – the Norwegian love for the outdoors. For more inspiration on hiking with children, read the full story about Mina (4), who has slept 300 nights in a tent and walked hundreds of kilometres in the Norwegian mountains.
Book your hiking holiday
Experience Norwegian nature. See great deals from our partners.
28 Hours ・ June - NovemberBook nowTrolltunga via ferrata and dome stay
Trolltunga climb with sunset dome accommodationClimb up the steep face of the mountain on a via ferrata and spend the night in a unique transparent dome on the Trolltunga plateau. Dinner, breakfast, and equipment included.Price From 4 950 NOK
28 Hours ・ May - OctoberBook nowTrolltunga hike and dome stay
Sunset and sunrise from TrolltungaJoin us on an adventurous hike to the Trolltunga plateau and spend your night in a comfortable dome. Dinner, breakfast, and gear included.Price From 4 550 NOK
5 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowHike on historic ground
Cross Dovrefjell mountain on the St. Olav’s WaysDo you want to combine mountain hiking with culture? A hike in one of Norway's most majestic mountain landscapes. Varied and easy highland terrain. Hike on your own without a guide. The package includes luggage transport, overnight accommodation, and meals.Price From 8 850 NOK
7 Hours ・ April - SeptemberBook nowPreikestolen express bus
Roundtrip from Stavanger to an iconic trailOne of the most popular hikes in Norway. Our bus provides easy and comfortable round trip transport from Stavanger. Be aware that this hike is unguided, however, the trail is well marked with distance markers. Relax and enjoy the view.Price From 389 NOK
5 Days ・ Juni - SeptemberBook nowAurland, Flåm and Hardanger
Fjord cruise, farm visits and Flåm railwayFjord cruise from Bergen through Sognefjord, farm visits with tastings, hike to get views of the Aurlandsfjord, enjoy a fjord sauna in Flåm, ride the famous Flåm Railway. Experience cider tasting in Hardanger, visit Rosendal Barony, and stay at quality hotels with 3-course dinners included.Price From 28 500 NOK
8 Days ・ June - AugustBook nowFrom mountains to fjords
Jotunheimen and AurlandOn this adventure, you can hike the historical route through mountainous Jotunheimen National Park towards the beautiful fjords in the west.Price From 26 000 NOK
7 Days ・ July - AugustBook nowSunnmøre and Romsdalen
Activity-filled roundtrip from ÅlesundE-bike narrow valleys, relax in a fjord sauna, cruise Geirangerfjord, hike to Skageflå farm, drive Trollstigen, enjoy a 5-hour guided kayak tour and wine tasting at Tuen. Accommodation and 3-course dinners at Hotel Union and Hotel Aak included.Price From 35 500 NOK
8 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowThe best of Lofoten
The land of the midnight sunWe've selected the best hikes and the most iconic viewpoints, as well as some hidden gems on our tour of Norway's most beautiful archipelago. Dramatic mountains, long white beaches, wild seas, and rich wildlife let you experience Norwegian nature at its very best!Price From 33 500 NOK
6 Days ・ July - AugustBook nowAurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord
Hiking, biking and kayakingVisit the Hardangerjøkulen glacier. Cycle the historic Rallarvegen trail all the way down to Flåm. Kayak on the Aurlandsfjorden and the Nærøyfjorden and hike up Prest mountain. There are many beautiful sights on this fantastic trip.Price From 30 900 NOK
6 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowTrolltunga, Preikestolen and Folgefonna glacier
Iconic hikes and Lysefjord cruiseOslo roundtrip: Hike Trolltunga and Preikestolen, explore Hardangervidda, walk on Folgefonna glacier (equipment provided). Cruise Lysefjorden and stay at Canvas Hotel with saunas and outdoor tubs.Price From 29 000 NOK
7 Days ・ June - AugustBook nowLofoten, Værøy and Røst
Hike to the secrets of the Lofoten IslandsSpectacular mountains, crystal clear water, secluded beaches, and quaint fishing communities are all ingredients of this trip. We will visit the world-famous Lofoten archipelago with an emphasize on its hidden gems. From selected highlights in the north to Værøy and Røst in the south, we will show you Lofoten off the beaten track!Price From 29 900 NOK
11 Hours ・ June - SeptemberBook nowKjerag express bus tour
Our bus offers easy access to KjeragHike to the Kjerag boulder and explore the sight that attracts thrill seekers from all over the world. Our express bus brings you directly from Stavanger to the start of the hiking trail and back.Price From 880 NOK
Get inspired
Here is a selection of other articles you might like.
