It's not always easy to motivate a teenager to go for a hike for hours, away from their phone or video games! Yet, hiking can become a great adventure for them, provided you know how to get them hooked.
Here are our best tips for introducing teenagers to hiking and giving them a taste for the outdoors.
1. Choose fun hikes
The classic mistake? Wanting to impose a long, monotonous walk.
Prioritize:
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Routes with points of interest: waterfall, lake, cave, summit to climb
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Short hikes at first (5 to 8 km max)
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Varied paths to avoid boredom
Tip: turn the outing into a treasure hunt with a geocaching app!
2. Allow some freedom
Teens like to feel responsible.
Suggest that they:
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Read the map or use the GPS app
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Choose a section of the route
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Decide where to take the picnic break
Involving them makes them want to participate fully.
3. Motivate with small rewards
A good snack at the top of the summit, a restaurant after the hike, a "first summit conquered" badge...
Small rewards make the effort more gratifying and create positive memories.
4. Adapt the equipment
A poorly equipped teenager risks hating the experience.
Check for:
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Good, comfortable shoes
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A lightweight, well-adjusted backpack
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Weather-appropriate clothing
Bonus tip: letting them choose their own equipment can also motivate them!
5. Make hiking a shared moment
Hiking isn't just walking. It's about:
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Observing animals or flowers
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Photographing landscapes
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Experiencing an adventure with family or friends
And why not suggest they document the outing with photos or videos to share?
To introduce teenagers to hiking, it's essential to give them an active role, choose motivating routes, and above all, keep it fun and adventurous.
👉 To equip the whole family for your first hikes, check out our special beginner selection on baroudeurcamp.com!