The 1,280 miles of recreational trails in and around Chattanooga are waiting to be explored by families on national Take a Hike Day November 17. Considering the great expanse of trails, it can be easy for kids to wander too far off from parents and get lost. The last thing any parent wants to experience is losing a child in the woods, so it's important to teach your kids to hike smart.
By following these tips from Chattanooga Hiking Club president Elizabeth O'Connor, Take a Hike Day celebrations can be worry free.
- Stay close to mom and pop. Instruct any young hikers in the group to never leave the trail unless it's with an adult.
- Preparation is key. Give each of the kids a small backpack with snacks and drinks to take on the hiking excursion. If a child does get lost and isn't found for an extended period of time, he or she won't go hungry or become dehydrated while waiting for a search party.
- Wear a whistle. The minute kids wander too far off the trail, the shrill sound of a whistle can alert the parents to their whereabouts. Tell the kids not to hide but to stay put and out in the open where they are easy to spot, not wandering any further off the trail.
- Treat trail intersections like red lights. "If you couldn't resist the fun of being on the trail and you ran ahead, always stop if you get to a trail intersection," O'Connor advises kids on hiking outings. "Wait there for your adults even if you're sure which way to go." This practice helps families and hiking groups avoid taking opposite trails and losing track of one another.
"Getting out to run, shout, play and explore will help build healthy habits for kids and even release stress in the same way that many of our kids play competitive sports. Kids need to know that being active is not only about winning a game or match or meet. Every kid's a winner when he or she plays outside! Our kids who enjoy family time outdoors will remember those experiences when they have the opportunity to protect trail systems as teenagers and adults." - Elizabeth O'Connor on the importance of taking kids out on Chattanooga's trails