Reducing barriers so little feet can hit the trail
“Hiking with kids is confidence-building and full of wonder.”
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Photo credit: Jessica Becker
The Lower Columbia Nature Network works to reduce barriers so all can access nature. For those taking little ones on hikes, those barriers can be fear, lack of knowledge, not being familiar with where to go, knowing what to expect and so much more.
Hiking guidebook by northeast Clark County resident, Jessica Becker
Local author and homeschooling mom Jessica Becker is working to change that experience for local families. She has written several hiking guidebooks to showcase nearby nature for folks taking their little ones out on the trails. Her first book little feet hiking: 25 confidence-building hikes for little kids around Vancouver, Washington, features tips for how to build hiking confidence and skills, includes hikes of different skill levels and gives ideas on how to have age appropriate conversations about environmental stewardship.
Since the success of the first book and as she kept exploring with her little one, she added a second volume, little feet hiking two: 30 more hikes for kids around Southwest Washington and Mt. St. Helens.
We asked Jessica to share tips to get started in the greater Clark County area with young children.
Salmon Morgan Creeks Natural Area in Brush Prairie.
Photo credit: Jessica Becker
“We are fortunate to live in an area full of hiking opportunities. Social media may lead you to believe you need to travel far, have the most expensive gear, or just have your family running like a well-oiled machine in order to get out hiking.
The really awesome thing about hiking is that you don't need any of that to start hiking with your family. You can pick a local urban or suburban trail (regional parks and wildlife refuges are great for this), grab some snacks/water/sun protection/weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, and start walking.
Set small goals for your hikes, explore the trail with your senses, and engage with your kiddos, all while keeping an open mind and trying to have fun. Embrace the discomfort that comes with trying something new and let your kids see you push through that. Hiking with kids is confidence-building and full of wonder.”
Jessica has written a few more books that highlight hikes around Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge. All Jessica’s book can be found locally at Vintage Books or online here.
“Embrace the discomfort that comes with trying something new and let your kids see you push through that.”
