Pick the Right Place

First things first: if you want to introduce your kids to the wonders of the woods, the most important step is finding an appropriate location--one that won't intimidate the young and inexperienced but also won't bore the veterans. Here's how to begin your exploration.

• Start small. You don't have to head to the Grand Canyon to have a fun, memorable hike. There are often dozens of exciting, lesser-known hikes within an hour of home.

• Have the kids research interesting destinations. The more involved they are in the decision making, the more stake they have in seeing the hike succeed.

• Look for places with built-in diversions such as boulders to scramble over, tide pools to explore, and streams to play in.

• Choose areas that offer a variety of options, from short, easy walks to more strenuous hikes, so you can do what works best for the day and for the group's energy level.

• Contact the local chamber of commerce, convention and visitors' centers, or regional tourism office for maps and brochures of trails and parks.

• Get in touch with the administrative offices of federal or state land managers. The USDA Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us), the Bureau of Land Management (www.blm.gov), and the National Park Service (www.nps.gov) all offer a wealth of maps, access tips, and resources.

• Visit your local recreation-oriented stores. They usually carry maps and guidebooks and often employ people who are very knowledgeable about outdoor options.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated June 2005.