Trails for Kids

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:
HopkintonKidsOnOurTrailsEvent

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. 

  • Center Trail

  • Hughes Trail

  • 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.

  • Name a feature - kids name the unusual features they see, like Dinosaur Rock

  • 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.

  • Hopkinton Public Library - Has a collection of trail and nature books designed for kids. Ask the children’s librarian about this.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 1000 Hours Outside - A program that aims to help parents match green time with screen time. See 1000hoursoutside.com.

  • 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/

  • Hike It Baby - a website that lists many resources including at-home resources in its collection of tools. See hikeitbaby.com/