Hiking with kids is a beautiful way to experience the fall season and promote life-long ecological awareness. With a little bit of prep and a lot of enthusiasm, kids from preschool through teenhood can enjoy these long walks.

Choose hikes that match your emerging rambler. A half-mile hike with limited elevation is ideal for preschool age and those uncomfortable in nature. A mile with some elevation would match elementary-aged abilities. Trails should be clearly marked with blazes and well-mapped. Always check weather and the site’s visitor use policies before hiking.

No need to buy any fancy gear. Good shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and bug spray are sufficient. For those still potty training, consider buying a camp potty and privacy tent for any primitive outings.

Lastly but most importantly, a special treat mid-way through a hike can spark enthusiasm for reluctant hikers: a Thermos of hot tea — strawberry or mint is a kid favorite ­– and something sweet like a chocolate bar.

Below is a list of favorite local trails to encourage kids to enjoy hiking in nature.

Lycoming Conservation District Learning Trail

From the Lycoming Sensory Garden at 542 County Farm Road, Montoursville, this mile-long loop trail has medium elevation changes and would be enjoyable for elementary ages. Preschool-aged children can do a smaller stint and stop by the slow-moving creek to play.

At the top of the trail sits a play space with a fort and tables for kids while adults and older teens can set up tree hammocks and listen to the sound of the Lycoming Creek rushing below.

Hummingbird Trail at Montour Preserve

This hike is short, flat and roughly 0.2 miles long. Covered with crushed gravel, strollers could potentially be used on this hike. A good match for those just starting or with limited mobility, consider sparking enthusiasm by giving kids an old cell phone for taking photos along the hike.

Bluebird Trail at the Williamsport Water Authority

A great hike to take during spooky season, this two-mile trail has small elevation changes and features the abandoned Remington Ruins.

Ideal for teen and pre-teen ages, this trail would make for a dramatic setting for telling spooky tales. Tall grasses line this path, so tick checks are a must.

Wayne Township

Nature Park

This paved, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly loop trail is roughly 1.5 miles and follows the McElhatten Creek through a wooded area.

To foster engagement, kids could explore signs of animal hibernation as they prepare for winter.

West Meadow Trail at Glacier Pools

Preserve

For a short hike but with more elevation, this half-mile loop trail features a wildflower meadow and a lookout across the small valley. Mushroom spotting after a rainfall can be exciting for small kids, particularly if adults bring along a guidebook.