Outdoor Adventures: Hiking with Tweens

By Dawn Fornear | July 29, 2024
8.2 hiking group with Tim

Discover Family-Friendly Hikes in the Seattle area.

Looking for fun and easy hikes to enjoy with your family? Here are some great local trails that are perfect for outdoor adventures. These hikes offer beautiful scenery and are close to our West Seattle community.

  • Lincoln Park
    Just minutes from Explorer West Middle School, Lincoln Park offers stunning views of Puget Sound. With paved and unpaved trails, it's a great spot for families. Enjoy a walk through the woods or along the beach.

 

  • Schmitz Preserve Park
    Experience old-growth forest right in the city. Schmitz Preserve Park features shaded trails and plenty of natural beauty. It's a quiet escape perfect for kids to explore.

 

  • Alki Beach Trail
    For an easy, scenic walk, try the Alki Beach Trail. This paved path runs along the waterfront and is ideal for a relaxing stroll or bike ride. Enjoy views of the city skyline and the Olympic Mountains.

 

  • Seward Park
    Seward Park features a 2.4-mile loop trail that circles the park. It’s perfect for walking, running, or biking with your family. The park also has an old-growth forest and plenty of spots for a picnic.

 

  • Discovery Park
    A bit further out, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space. With diverse trails, from beach walks to forest paths, it's a fantastic place for a family hike. The scenic loop trail offers breathtaking views.

 

  • Carkeek Park
    Explore forest trails and beach areas at Carkeek Park. The trails are family-friendly and offer a variety of terrains. Enjoy the lush greenery and the views of Puget Sound.

Here is the EW Local Hikes List crowdsourced from our community!

Tips for Hiking with Tweens
Family hikes can improve mental health, build physical fitness, and make lifetime memories. Here are some tips to make your hike enjoyable for everyone:

1. Involve Them in Planning: Let your tweens help choose the hike. This gives them a sense of ownership and excitement about the adventure.
2. Pack Snacks and Water: Plenty of snacks and water will keep energy levels high. Tweens appreciate having their favorite treats along the way. The National Parks website has more information about the 10 essentials for hiking.
3. Dress Comfortably: Ensure everyone wears comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
4. Set a Comfortable Pace: Go at a pace that everyone can handle. Remember, it’s about enjoying the journey, not just reaching the destination.
5. Bring a Friend: If possible, let your tweens invite a friend. They’ll enjoy the hike more with a buddy.
6. Engage with Nature: Encourage your tweens to observe and explore their surroundings. Bring along a field guide or a nature app to identify plants and animals.
7. Stay Safe: Teach your tweens about trail safety, including staying on the path, being aware of their surroundings, and what to do if they get lost.
8. Keep the Trail Clean: At EW, we teach the importance of "Leave No Trace." Carry a small bag to collect any trash you find, and encourage your tweens to pick up after themselves. Keeping the trails clean preserves the beauty of nature for everyone.

Exploring these trails is a great way to spend time with your family and connect with nature. Happy hiking! 

Join the Explorer West Community

At Explorer West Middle School, we believe in the power of outdoor education. Our students enjoy many opportunities to explore the state. Want to learn more about our unique programs?  Join us for an open house.