Your child may be ready for hiking lessons if they enjoy outdoor activities, have basic physical fitness, and can follow instructions for safety and navigation.
Look for instructors with experience in outdoor education, a background in environmental science, and certifications in wilderness first aid or safety.
Encourage participation in family hikes, joining local hiking clubs, or attending outdoor adventure camps. Teaching basic navigation and survival skills can also be beneficial.
Children as young as 5 or 6 can start with easy, family-friendly hikes, with more challenging trails introduced as they build confidence and stamina.