A book that inspires family time in nature? Sounds like a great gift.
A couple of years ago, I stumbled upon Erin Gifford’s @gohikevirginia social media account. The photos and videos lured me in, but it was the detailed captions that kept my attention. When her book, Hiking with Kids Virginia: 52 Great Hikes for Families, came out in 2022, I bought it right away to keep as a resource for our outdoorsy family.
A mom of four, Erin has completed all fifty-two hikes in the book, and done all the research, so caregivers can focus more on the fun and less on the planning. No more wondering about restrooms and other facilities, if there are costs associated, if furry friends can come on the journey – all of this is researched for you!
Each hike in Erin’s guide book offers instructions, distance and elevation information, photos, and a map. But, my favorite feature of each hike is the Fun Factor, where Erin includes information on nearby attractions, programming, exhibits, historical tidbits to enhance the outing, and more.
Understanding the unique challenges and benefits of hiking as a family, this book is for those with babies to teens. Whether you’ve never hiked before or are looking for new locations and adventures, this book will serve you well! When we were just beginning, my family used Hiking with Kids Virginia: 52 Great Hikes for Families as a go-to resource for local hikes, like Belle Isle. And now, as our kids have grown, we consult the book for longer hikes throughout the state. Just this summer we used Gifford’s tips for hiking Buzzard Rock Overlook in Roanoke and White Rock Falls near Waynesboro.
As the holidays approach, consider purchasing Hiking with Kids Virginia: 52 Great Hikes for Families. It makes a perfect gift for an adventurous loved one, or keep it for yourself. You can use it to help you decide on your First Day Hike outing on January 1, 2025
