Take a Hike!

Going on a hike? Have FUN and be SAFE!

Look AROUND you. Look UP. Look DOWN. Look BEHIND you. Everywhere you look you will see different things! Play "I Spy" and include "I Spy DOWN BELOW" or "I Spy UP ABOVE" for extra fun!
Play "Alphabet I Spy" -- can you find something that starts with an "a" then a "b" all the way through the end of the alphabet?
Count the colors in a rock.
Listen for frogs and other animal sounds. Take a break and make a sound map.
Take a piece of paper and a crayon and do rubbings on different tree bark. There are some fun and easy exploring activities in the Outdoor Kids section called "Explore!"
If you have permission from the landowner, take along a little bag and to collect small objects such as rocks and sort them in an egg carton at home. Remember that you cannot remove objects from state or national parks.
Look for signs of wildlife. Is there a path in the weeds beaten down by deer? Is there a hidden animal home at the base of a tree or in a bank of dirt? Can you find ants carrying food to their home?
Take an Outdoor Kid Journal with you.

Be Safe and Smart Outdoors
Pack your Survival Kit
Plan your trip. Go with an adult. Look at a map and carry it with you.
Be sure to look behind you often so the trail looks familiar on the return trip!
Wear bright colors and have everyone, including you, wear a whistle. Blow the whistle three times in a row over and over if you are lost or need help.
Carry clean drinking water, and drink it often.
Bring a healthy snack. Don't throw extra food into the weeds! Animals begin to rely on people food which can upset their stomachs. Also, animals can become a pest begging for food.

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