Hiking with three boys...

Dennis and I have always enjoyed hiking and being outdoors.  Now that we have kids we are trying to figure out how we can incorporate this back into our lives and introduce it to the boys!  I found this great website: http://www.adirondack.net/Hiking/kids/ It has a lot of great things to do in the Adirondacks, but specifically recommends hikes to do with kids.  Here are a few that I think we will try out. 
Kid-Friendly Hikes In The Adirondacks

Gurney Lane Nature Trail: Part of the town of Queensbury park system, a 1.3 mile educational nature trail crisscrosses the park. There is a small pond stocked with trout. Gurney Lane is 1.1 miles west of Exit 20 off the Adirondack Northway. Charles Lathrop Pack Forest: This 1-mile trail winds through a marsh, over a boardwalk and through a grove of old-growth hemlock trees. Stop and see the huge white pine called “The Grandmother Tree”. There is a trail guide at the trailhead. Constructed to accommodate people with disabilities, this trail is hard-surfaced and appropriate for even the youngest hiker. Located 5 miles north of Warrensburg on Route 9.

Visitor Interpretive Center Newcomb: The Center has almost 4 miles of marked trails, including 4 separate loops that are fabulous beginning trails for kids. There are lots of neat things to see along the way, overlooks, brooks, views, and Adirondack wildlife. Located on Route 28N just northwest of the village of Newcomb.


Sawyer Mountain: A great beginner hike, this trail is about 1.1 miles to the summit at about 630 ft. The actual summit is wooded, but a bit further along there is a rock ledge with a scenic overlook. Located six miles east of Blue Mountain Lake on the west side of the road, the parking is well marked.


Panther Mountain: This is a great hike for kids because it ascends quickly and the summit is reached in less than a mile. There is are gorgeous views to reward their efforts, and the hike itself is attractive. Round trip is just 1.6 miles. Access to the trail is located about 1.5 miles east of the intersection of Routes 3 and 30 between Saranac Lake and Tupper.

I think that we will start with Gurney Lane (because that it the closest!) to see how they do.  My goal is to get out with the boys at least 3-4 times this summer to get them started. 

Now, Freddy will be able to walk, and possibly carry his own backpack.  The boys will need to be carried.  We have one backpack, and if we get/borrow another, I think that we can start trying.  If we are just on the trails, we will be able to let Liam and Rory walk some on their own.  I already know that they have the energy and strength to do it!!

So, next weekend is Freddy's birthday party, but I am thinking that the following weekend, just might be a day to start!  Anyone want to join??