TRAILS FOR KIDS
There are so many fun ways to explore Hopkinton’s trails with kids. Here are some resources and tips.
Thank you to the Hopkinton Public Library for being a sponsor of this upcoming Hopkinton Trails Explorers Event:
Stroller-Friendly Trails
Some of the trails have gravel or stone dust portions while others have grass or a forest surface but with few bumps that you can use with a sturdy stroller. Consider a child carrier, either a papoose style or a backpack, when feasible, which means most trails in Hopkinton are appropriate. The Trails Club is donating a backpack carrier to the Library of Things so if you don’t have one, you can borrow that one.
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Center Trail
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Hughes Trail
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Mary Pratt Trail in the Fruit Street trail network
Activities for Kids on Trails
Kids can explore the forest and land as they use the trails - these activities can help direct them and teach them, in a fun way.
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Name a feature - kids name the unusual features they see, like Dinosaur Rock
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Scavenger hunt - kids look for items on a list like a pine cone, or a white pine tree, or a bird, or woodpecker holes in the tree
More Resources
These organizations provide many ideas and activities for kids enjoying trails and nature.
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Hopkinton Public Library - Has a collection of trail and nature books designed for kids. Ask the children’s librarian about this.
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YMCA MetroWest Family Outdoor Center - The non-profit group offers trails-related educational and recreational programs including geocaching and orienteering. For more information, see Outdoor Center.
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Mass Audubon - Offers classes and guided walks, plus more resources for kids enjoying the natural environment. See massaudubon.org/learn/families-with-children/young-explorers
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1000 Hours Outside - A program that aims to help parents match green time with screen time. See 1000hoursoutside.com.
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Natick Community Organic Farm - a free, local place that’s fun to explore, they also offer many tips for young ones to enjoy the trails. See natickfarm.org/learn/forest-gnomes-resources/
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Hike It Baby - a website that lists many resources including at-home resources in its collection of tools. See hikeitbaby.com/