Spring is the perfect time to head outdoors, get some fresh air and go for a hike. No matter where you live, there are places to scramble up rocks, hike a hill or explore an existing trail. I live in Manhattan and still can find several hiking locations within the city or as close as a quick train ride. The “upsides” to hiking with your nephews, nieces or the kids on your block are endless.

The Freedom Trail

Most local parks require no fee for entrance or admission. I can walk into Central Park and spend hours hiking the trails and paths, as well as the lawns and fields throughout the park’s nearly 300 acres. Somewhere in your neighborhood or town I am sure you can find fields or trails waiting to be explored; gather the kids in your life and take a hike!

No Need to Get In High Gear

I recently went hiking with my good friend, Lisa and extended an invitation to another friend’s 10-year old daughter, Gretchen, who jumped at the chance to go exploring with us. Wearing only sneakers, long sleeve t-shirts and sweat pants we started up a trail that promised a glimpse of a lake, an old, stone house and lots and lots of wildflowers. The beautiful thing about hiking, besides the beautiful things you see, is there is no need for any special gear when you are hiking in general surroundings or low elevation. Our sneakers easily managed the rocks and boulders and we kept to trails and paths that were welcoming and worn. I would suggest wearing something other than cotton as the first layer next to your skin, as even a light sweat can feel chilly after a short amount of time, but there is certainly no need to invest in special gear.

Rules Of The Trail – Leave No Trace

The golden rule for hiking, be it Kilimanjaro or the woods in your backyard, is not to leave any trace that you were there. What you carry in, you carry out. As the Savvy Auntie of the pack, make sure water bottles, tissues, bandage and gum wrappers get scooped up and discarded later.

Talk About a Walk About

Hiking is basically walking, just for a longer time and off the road more traveled. It’s an activity that you can do while still holding a conversation with your hiking companions, which makes it a perfect activity for a Savvy Auntie looking to spend time (and energy!) with kids of any age.  Gretchen kept us entertained by sharing her story of a hike she took when she was 7; an experience the whole family shared and enjoyed.  She also added a bit of energy and adventure to the afternoon as only a 10-year old can do.  Two hours of hiking is a lot for nearly anyone, but you can plant yourself on a rock and take a break, take a look or if you are lucky enough to be by a pond or lake, skim a few stones.  You can add to the sport of it by looking for interesting rocks or naming wildflowers, but the idea of getting in some physical fun and time well spent, Savvy Auntie, is what it is all about!

Amy Shigo is a sports journalist.