Hiking and exploring nature can be a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors, get some fresh air, and bond with family.

For those living in or visiting Kawartha Lakes, you’re in luck—this area is home to stunning trails and beautiful landscapes that are perfect for outdoor adventures. But for individuals with autism, hiking and navigating trails can come with some challenges. From sensory sensitivities to difficulty with transitions and unexpected changes, outdoor adventures can sometimes feel overwhelming.

The good news is that with some preparation, patience, and the right strategies, hiking with a person with autism can be a fun, rewarding experience. Nature offers a calming, sensory-rich environment that can be very therapeutic, and many people with autism can thrive in the outdoors when given the right support.

Here are some tips to help make hiking and trail adventures more enjoyable and accessible for individuals with autism, particularly on the beautiful trails of Kawartha Lakes.

1. Plan Ahead and Choose the Right Trail

Choosing the right trail is key, especially when you’re hiking in Kawartha Lakes, where there’s a wide range of outdoor options. Some trails may be too long, too difficult, or too sensory-overloading for someone with autism, so it’s important to pick one that fits the needs and abilities of the individual.

Here’s what to consider:

Length and difficulty: Start with shorter, easy-to-moderate trails. Kawartha Lakes offers several beginner-friendly trails, like those around the Lindsay Heritage Garden or Victoria Park, which are shorter and more accessible.
Terrain: Look for trails with even ground, especially for those sensitive to bumpy or uneven paths. Trails like The Scugog River Trail offer smooth pathways with scenic views, which may be easier to navigate.
Crowd levels: Some individuals with autism may feel overwhelmed by large crowds. Kawartha Lakes trails, like the ones along Balsam Lake Provincial Park, tend to be quieter and less populated, making them a good option for a more peaceful hike.
Weather conditions: As always, check the weather forecast. Some of the best months for hiking in Kawartha Lakes are spring and fall when the temperatures are mild, and the trails are less crowded.

2. Prepare for Sensory Challenges

The outdoors can be a sensory-rich experience, with sights, sounds, and smells that can either be calming or overstimulating. For individuals with autism who are sensitive to sensory stimuli, hiking in nature may present certain challenges. Kawartha Lakes’ forests, rivers, and lakes create a varied sensory environment, which can be both soothing and overwhelming.

To manage sensory sensitivities:

Bring noise-canceling headphones: If the person is sensitive to sounds, consider noise-canceling headphones to help block out the noise of wildlife, running water, or other hikers.
Consider sunglasses or hats: Sunlight can be intense, especially in the open areas around Sturgeon Lake or Pigeon River, so wearing sunglasses or wide-brimmed hats can help reduce discomfort.
Avoid overwhelming smells: The fresh smell of pine trees or flowers may be pleasant for some, but for others, it can be too much. Kawartha Lakes’ diverse landscape offers a variety of natural scents—so be mindful of the environment and take note of any triggers.

3. Establish a Clear Route and Expectations

Some individuals with autism struggle with uncertainty and unexpected changes, so it’s important to provide a clear plan for the hike. Kawartha Lakes has a variety of beautiful trails, but it’s helpful to communicate exactly what will happen during the hike, especially for those who thrive on routine.

Here’s how to set clear expectations:

Use a visual schedule: If the person responds well to visual aids, create a simple schedule showing the route, expected rest stops, and any notable landmarks along the trail. Many trails in Kawartha Lakes, like the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, have markers and signage that can help you navigate.
Provide verbal explanations: Before starting, explain the route, how long the hike will take, and what to expect. For example, “We’ll walk for 20 minutes to the Kawartha Lakes Nature Reserve, and then take a break at the bench by the water.”
Set clear goals: Give them something to focus on, like reaching a specific landmark or completing a part of the hike. This can help create a sense of accomplishment and focus.
Prepare for transitions: If you plan to move from one activity to another (e.g., from hiking to resting), give plenty of warning before transitioning. Using a timer can be helpful to provide a visual cue.

4. Bring Calming Items

For many individuals with autism, certain items can provide comfort and reassurance when things feel overwhelming. When hiking in the beautiful Kawartha Lakes region, it’s important to be prepared with soothing items that can help during breaks or moments of stress.

Consider bringing:

Fidget tools: Fidget toys or sensory objects can help manage anxiety during the hike or when you stop to take a break.
Comfort items: A favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or calming item can offer emotional support during the hike. In Kawartha Lakes, where nature is abundant, taking a moment to relax by a stream or under a tree can provide a perfect opportunity for comfort.
Snacks and water: Bring favorite snacks and plenty of water to ensure that everyone stays hydrated and energized, especially if you’re hiking longer trails like those around Emily Provincial Park.

5. Break the Hike Into Manageable Segments

Long hikes can be overwhelming, especially if there’s too much time spent walking between breaks. Many trails in Kawartha Lakes, like Lindsay's Little Lake Loop, offer shorter, scenic options, making them perfect for breaking the hike into more manageable segments.

Here’s how:

Frequent breaks: Plan for regular stops, especially on longer or more difficult trails. Many Kawartha Lakes trails feature resting spots, benches, or scenic areas where you can take a break and enjoy the view.
Create a reward system: Provide positive reinforcement after completing smaller parts of the hike. A reward could be a special snack or a trip to a favorite activity after the hike.
Mini hikes: Consider starting with mini hikes or shorter nature walks on easy trails. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration and difficulty as comfort grows.

6. Ensure Safety and Comfort

Safety is always a priority when hiking, especially with a loved one who has autism. Many of Kawartha Lakes’ trails are well-marked and maintained, but it’s still important to stay vigilant and be prepared.

Make sure to:

Stay on marked trails: Kawartha Lakes has a variety of beautiful, but often remote, trails. Make sure to follow designated paths to prevent anyone from getting lost or disoriented.
Wear proper footwear: Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for navigating trails like those around Balsam Lake Provincial Park or the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail.
First aid kit: Always have a basic first aid kit on hand with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.

7. Use Nature to Your Advantage

One of the benefits of hiking in Kawartha Lakes is the area’s natural beauty and tranquility. Many people with autism thrive in peaceful, sensory-rich environments, and the trails here are perfect for connecting with nature in a calm and relaxing way.

To make the most of nature:

Explore different textures: Let the person explore the textures of the environment, whether it’s the rough bark of trees or the soft moss underfoot. Nature provides endless opportunities to engage the senses in a calming way.
Birdwatching or wildlife spotting: If the individual enjoys animals, make the hike a bit more exciting by spotting birds, squirrels, or other wildlife along the trail.
Use the natural environment for relaxation: Kawartha Lakes is known for its peaceful, natural settings. Take breaks by a lake or forest clearing to create a calming, sensory-friendly space to regroup.

Hiking in Kawartha Lakes can be a truly enriching experience for individuals with autism, but it does require a little extra planning and understanding. By choosing the right trail, preparing for sensory challenges, and offering plenty of breaks and support, hiking can be a fun and fulfilling activity that brings the family closer to nature—and to each other.

With its stunning natural landscapes and well-maintained trails, Kawartha Lakes offers the perfect setting for an outdoor adventure. And with the right support, you can ensure that everyone—regardless of their sensory sensitivities—can enjoy the beauty and serenity that this wonderful region has to offer.

7 Tips for Hiking and Trails with Autism