If one or more of the children are brought on the trek in some form of backpack, make sure that the pack is fit for you before you take off on your trip. Adjustments, for some reason, are always easier to make at home than they are in the middle of your trek. If you are purchasing a new pack for your adventure, consider shying away from the cheapest option ? they are the cheapest option for a reason. A good resale shop or a trip to ebay.com can find you high quality at a price you are willing to spend.

No matter where you are hiking, waterproofing is a must. A couple of ponchos have been know to save the day more times than not. They weigh next to nothing but are life savers when needed. Umbrellas are more awkward than anything else.

Finally, take lots of pictures ? these are memories that you?ll want to look back on for a long time.

When you do take small children on a hike, the rewards are plentiful: an early respect for nature, good exercise, family memories and the like. Keep these simple thoughts in mind and you?ll find that this is an activity enjoyed by everyone that you?ll want to do again and again.

Linda Jones is the Webmaster of FirstHiking.com. She?s loved hiking since her parents took her on her first hike at just 14 months. Visit her site at www.firsthiking.com.