favorite hikes for kids?

[Laura]

I was wondering if anyone out there wanted to share their favorite nearby hiking spots to take little ones. I take my daughter hiking a few times a week, and we've been going to a lot of the same places lately (Rinconada Canyon, Ojito, North Valley ditches, foothills, etc.)

She's two-and-a-half and a really good sport for her age. She refuses to ride along in the backpack thingie anymore, which means she usually does the first half of the hike on her own, and then I carry her on my shoulders the rest of the way. (In other words, I'm looking for places that aren't straight up and downhill.)

I found this little page on-line, and I have to agree that Tent Rocks is a fantastic place to take kids. It's pretty flat, very sandy, incredibly beautiful--and the slot canyon is loads of fun to walk through.

I'm looking forward to hearing any suggestions anyone has--thanks in advance!

[Julie Heinrich]

We just did this trail last night! I had my nearly 2-year old walk it as well. He did fairly well...only ended up on my shoulders temporarily... and walked most of it on his own. I would agree that this is a nice, short hike to the water falls. About 1/2 mile each way. My 5 year old and his buddy spent the entire time enthusiastically climbing rocks and splashing in small pools of water.

[Rodrigues]

http://explorenm.com/

[Jennifer]

Hey,
What about the Jemez Falls hike? Its pretty short for little legs and also rewarding at the end. Its a bit of a drive but that makes for good nap-time on the way home.

[Julie Heinrich]

You need Bob Julyan's book: Best Hikes with Children in New Mexico.

[Laura]

I sure do need that book. Thanks, Julie--and everyone else!