Fall is a fantastic time for family hiking and enjoying the outdoors in the Bay Area. There are great hikes for kids that provide plenty of opportunities to see the splendors of season and spectacular trees in full array autumn colors.
Here are some of our favorite kid friendly fall hikes:
Lafayette Reservoir – Lower Lake Trail
A 2.75 mile loop along the lake with lots of trees, scenic views, wildlife and picnic spots. Recommended for beginners. Also, there are docks for fishing and boat rentals available. The Rim Trail is a 6.7 mile loop that is a more challenging hike with steep hills and great views. For more details – see Lafayette Recreation Area
Mitchell Canyon in Mount Diablo
A good hike in Mount Diablo for kids with lots of colorful tree and great for viewing the tarantulas that come out in the fall. Start at Deer Flat staging area. See Mt. Diablo Trails Guide for more.
Tilden Regional Park
A wonderful destination for young children and novice hikers of all ages. This park in the Berkeley hills the offer lots of activities including nature walks, the Little Farm, steam train, merry-go-round. See Tilden Regional Park for more info.
Armstrong Redwoods
A magnificent redwood grove in the Guerneville, Sonoma area that offers plenty of opportunities to view spectacular redwood trees and foliage. Good trails for kids include the Discovery Trail and Armstrong Nature Trail with popular sites of the tallest tree the oldest tree, the icicle tree. For more – see Armstrong Redwoods
Muir Woods
Walk among the gaint redwoods and see some amazing trees. The Ocean View Trail is a 2.5 loop through the shaded forest of redwoods and canyons of ferns. It’s recommend to arrive early in even in the fall. See Muir Woods for trail details.
Shirley Lake Canyon in Squaw Valley
A scenic hike with great views, meadows, trails for climbing and creeks right in the behind the Squaw Valley Ski. The terrain can be rocky and steep in places. Parts of trail can be done in shorter sections and fun for those who like hill climbing.
Spooner Lake in Tahoe
A beautiful 2.5 mile hike around Spooner Lake, in South Lake Tahoe, that is good for beginner and young children. A great trail for viewing aspen and pine trees with nice spots for picnics.
More Quick Tips for Fall Hiking:
Here are some tips for hiking in the fall– Remember to check the weather as conditions can change quickly this time of year. Dress in layers, and bring hats and sunscreen for sun protection and remember to stay hydrated have plenty of water for everyone. Make sure to have plenty of quick energy snacks for all family members and plan to pack a picnic if you’ll be out around lunch time. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture all those fantastic fall colors and family memories!
For more fun family things to do this Fall – check out our News Blog which lists Community Events happening nearby.
