Hello! It’s Leah here again with another fun Summer Fun Activity on a Budget idea for you! To see all of these summer fun ideas so far click here.
One fun and very inexpensive summer activity is to go for a hike! Not only is it fun but you’re getting exercise and you might not even realize it!
Have you ever hiked up Badger Mountain? The view is breathtaking in the evenings while the sun is going down. Badger Mountain is a very popular local hikw with estimated 1.000 – 2.500 people reaching the summit each week! Wowza, that’s incredible, we must have a lot of hikers here in the Tri-Cities area. Go Tri-Citians! Badger Mountain is located in Richland, WA.
Badger has a huge play area with slides, swings, monkey bars….the whole works! Perfect for kids 🙂
(Bathrooms at the bottom of the mountain)
First, we made sure everyone used the restrooms so we wouldn’t have any pop a squat moments on the way!  We started our hike at 8 AM before this sun was too hot. You’ll want to carry a lightweight back pack for your hiking essentials.
The boys led the way, they were excited and roaring to go!
Then you hit the the stairs of death...
If you can make it up these bad boys you are set for the mountain! Take it slow and steady the first time.  Anytime you need a break just take a look at the view and soak in vitamin D + fresh air. 😀
When we came upon the first bench on the trail the kiddos were ready for a water break!
We hit the trail again…
Water break  #2:  Lake Lewis Maximum Elevation 1250 Feet.
STAY ON THE TRAIL please!  😉
Bench #2 = water break #3 .  The kids are doing awesome! 
Yay we made it to the top!
Now time for a mini picnic with Applesauce to Go, Powerade and Jello! Isn’t Mia such a doll?!
The feeling you get once you summit the mountain is wonderful! You’re not only tired but you feel a sense of accomplishment!
If Drake and Gavin can hike the mountain without being carried at age 3 than you should try too! If you don’t make it to the top that’s OK, try again next time!
5 Tips for a Great Hike
- Pair of sturdy shoes
- Ample amount of water
- Weather appropriate clothes
- Sunscreen if needed
- Small first aid kit, just to be safe
The most important thing is to have fun!
Have you been on any really cool hikes lately? What are your favorite hikes to do with your family?
This post is part our Summer Fun Activities on a Budget for Kids series. See more of these fun ideas and posts here.
I haven’t hiked badger mountain since I moved to Richland two years ago.Thought many times and even bought hiking poles. Someone told me be aware of rattlesnakes there and my husband was scared. We like the trails behind marine point park and trail beside Hampton inn in Howard Amon park. Good views while walking with my 5 year-old-son. I like your post and thanks for sharing your stories with us.
I loved Badger Mt. Thought I would die the first time I went. I am soooo proud of Drakers for accomplishing that feat!! Do Drakers 🙂