Planning a Keystone family vacation? Look no further than the incredible hiking trails right here in Keystone and the surrounding Summit County. Creating lasting memories on family hikes in Colorado is easy when you approach it with a kid-first mindset.
Here's how to make your Keystone hiking adventure a resounding success:
1. Discover Keystone's Trail Treasures
Kids thrive on discovery! When choosing your Keystone hiking trails, think beyond just the destination. Look for routes that offer multiple points of interest along the way. Trails at Keystone Resort and throughout Summit County that follow a stream, pass by a serene pond, open into a vibrant meadow, or reveal a spectacular mountain vista are perfect choices for family-friendly hikes in Colorado. Many of our local trails even feature historic old cabins or fascinating mining town remains – perfect for sparking imaginative stories about the Wild West and making history come alive!
2. Embrace the Wanderlust of Young Explorers
Children are natural adventurers, often taking the path "less traveled" as they explore. Remember that reaching the "end" of a trail might not be their primary goal. Plan for joyful distractions and delightful diversions along the way. Don't be disappointed if you don't always complete the entire trail! At Keystone, the fun is truly in the journey, from spotting a unique wildflower to discovering a cool rock.
3. Empower Your Little Keystone Guide
Your kids will absolutely love being the hike leader on your Keystone family vacation! Make a quick copy of the trail map – perhaps even one of Keystone's specific trail maps like the Dercum Summit Hiking Trail – and let them hold onto it, even draw on it. Empower them to point out where they want to go and lead the way! Encourage them to be on the lookout for local wildlife and natural artifacts like interesting stones, fossils, and the vibrant wildflowers that bloom across the Colorado landscape. Bring an inexpensive pair of binoculars, bug nets, whistles, and a compass to enhance their sense of adventure. Follow their lead and watch the fun unfold!
4. Capture Keystone Memories
Kids adore being the center of attention – and these are moments you'll want to cherish forever! Photograph them along your family hikes in Colorado with treasures they've found, or posing proudly next to that awesome mountain lake. You'll love looking back at these cherished memories of your Keystone family vacation, and they'll love posing for the camera!
5. Always Be Prepared for Mountain Adventures
The mountains can be unpredictable, even at a family-friendly resort like Keystone! Always ensure everyone has appropriate shoes, layers of clothing, rain jackets, sunscreen, and hats. Pack plenty of energy-boosting food and water. Kids love snacks, so bring a generous supply of nuts, string cheese, dried fruits, gummy candies, and M&M's, and let them enjoy them as they please. It’s always a smart idea to carry a basic first-aid kit with Neosporin, band-aids, and any personal medications in case of minor emergencies. Don't forget to bring a trail map (Keystone's visitor centers have them!) or a GPS unit so you don't get lost, and a cell phone for emergencies.
Your family will be captivated by the stunning scenery and the abundance of diverse hiking trails available at Keystone Resort. Come prepared, and everyone will have an incredible time enjoying the great outdoors on your ideal Keystone family vacation! With school starting soon, there's still time for one last quick family getaway to our beautiful mountain playground!
