If you’ve ever considered a multi-day hike with children but worried it might be too tough, let me reassure you that it’s far more achievable than you might think. Many Alpine huts cater brilliantly for families, offering private family rooms, hearty kid-friendly meals, and short, manageable hiking routes. With the right planning, hut to hut hiking can be an incredible experience that gives children a sense of achievement, independence, and a lifelong love for the mountains.

I know this because I’ve done it myself! You can read more about my experiences and how I got into hut hiking here.

Here’s a picture of my kids and I on our first hut to hut hike in the Dolomites

  • A family of three stands on a rocky hiking trail on a hut to hut hike with the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks towering behind them under a bright blue sky. The two children, dressed in colorful striped leggings and backpacks, smile alongside an adult wearing a wide-brimmed hat and hiking gear. The lush alpine meadow in the foreground contrasts with the rugged gray rock formations in the background.

What this blog covers: First-hand tips & family-friendly routes

This guide is designed to take you from dreaming about hut to hut hiking with kids to confidently planning and setting off on your adventure. It covers:

By the end of this post, you’ll have everything you need to plan a stress-free and unforgettable family hut to hut hiking adventure.

  • A rustic alpine hut in the Dolomites surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and lush greenery. Hikers are seated outside the hut, enjoying the view under a partly cloudy sky.
    The Rotwandhütte, Dolomites
  • A cozy wooden room in a mountain hut, featuring four simple single beds with checkered beige bedding. Red and white checkered curtains frame a small window, letting in natural light. This is the sort of private room families can book on a hut to hut hike with kids.
    A private room in a mountain hut
  • Two children on a family hut to hut hike sitting on a grassy slope in a forest, wearing casual summer clothes and caps. They are looking up at the trees, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight filtering through the leaves.
    Hiking in beautiful woodland
  • A child wearing colorful striped pants and a backpack trekking through a rugged landscape in the Dolomites, with the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo rising dramatically against the clear blue sky. This captures the unique beauty and excitement of a hut to hut hike with kids in the Dolomites.
    In front of the Tre Cime, Dolomites

Why hut to hut hiking in the Alps is perfect for families

hut to hut hiking isn’t just great for kids—it’s fantastic for parents too. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, physical activity, and relaxation, offering real fun for the whole family rather than just being a trip designed around keeping the kids happy. Here’s why everyone in the family will love it:

🥾 A rewarding challenge for parents and kids

Children thrive on adventure, and completing a hike from one hut to another gives them a real sense of accomplishment. But it’s just as satisfying for parents—getting out into the mountains, taking on a challenge together, and sharing a sense of achievement at the end of each day that makes it all the more rewarding.

🥾 Building resilience

It’s also an excellent way to build resilience in kids, teaching them to embrace challenges, adapt to new environments, carry their own backpacks and develop confidence in their abilities. The combination of fresh air, physical activity, and problem-solving on the trail sets a foundation for a lifetime of adventure and outdoor exploration.

🥾 A perfect mix of structure and freedom

Hut to hut hiking provides just the right balance of planning and adventure. There’s a set destination each day, but the journey itself is full of variety – scrambling over rocks, crossing streams, spotting wildlife, and exploring new terrain. For parents, this means a stress-free adventure where you’re not constantly trying to figure out where to camp or if there’s food available at the end of the day.

🥾 Mountain huts make it so much easier

Many Alpine huts are brilliant for families and make hut to hut hiking a lot more comfortable than traditional camping. They offer:

  • Easy access options – many huts can be accessed from the top of cable cars or summer ski lifts, meaning you can gain elevation and save energy while still enjoying an alpine adventure.
  • Short, well-marked trails that are manageable for kids.
  • Comfortable private rooms so everyone can sleep well.
  • Hearty meals – no need to cook after a long day of hiking.
  • A sociable atmosphere – chat with other hikers and swap tips over dinner.
  • A relaxed environment for parents – a beer or Aperol spritz at the end of the day is a well-earned treat!

🥾 A proper break from the everyday routine

For parents, hut to hut hiking is a chance to step away from the usual daily grind; no emails, no screens, no rushing between activities. It’s time spent outdoors, moving, and enjoying the mountains together. Evenings are simple – good food, fresh air, and great conversation, without the distractions of home life.

🥾 Kids learn new skills, and parents get a more relaxed adventure

This type of hiking is amazing for kids’ independence, as they get involved with reading trail markers, pacing themselves, and looking after their own gear. But it’s also more enjoyable for parents, as there’s no need to constantly entertain or manage logistics; nature provides the entertainment, and the huts take care of food and shelter.

🥾 A shared love of adventure

If you love being outdoors, hut to hut hiking is a way to share that passion with your kids in a way that’s fun and achievable for everyone. It’s not just about giving kids an adventure, it’s about having an adventure together. Whether you’re tackling a gentle one night route or a more ambitious three-day trek, it’s an experience the whole family will genuinely enjoy.

How to choose the right family-friendly hut to hut hiking route

Not all hut to hut hikes are created equal, and if you’re heading into the mountains with kids, choosing the right route can make all the difference. From experience, I can tell you that picking the right hike for your family’s ability level is the key to a successful and enjoyable trip. Fast forward to my best family friendly hut to hut hiking routes for a great selection to pick from.

⛰️Consider elevation over distance

The biggest factor in choosing a hike is how much elevation you’ll be gaining each day. A 5 kilometre walk on the flat might sound easy, but add in an 800 metre climb, and that’s likely enough for most kids on a first-time hut hike! Once you know their limits, you can plan for longer or more challenging days next time.

If they’re still full of beans when you reach the hut, there are always extra hikes you can do nearby—like heading up to a small peak or exploring a ridge trail. I’d aim for 5 – 10 km per day to start with, with manageable elevation gains (500 m – 700 m max). More experienced hikers might enjoy longer routes with bigger climbs.

  • A family hiking up a rocky forest trail surrounded by tall evergreen trees in Austria, showcasing the scenic paths perfect for hut hikes with kids.
    Check the elevation gain

⛰️Check the hut facilities

Not all huts are the same – some have private rooms, while others only offer dormitory-style accommodation. Some huts have hot showers, while others might only have a cold tap or even no shower at all! If you know your family will appreciate certain comforts, it’s worth checking in advance.

A hut with a private family room and a warm shower at the end of the day can make all the difference, especially if you’re on a longer trek.

Some huts also have drying rooms for wet gear, kid-friendly meals, or even a playground, farm animals or a few board games to keep little hikers entertained in the evening.

  • A close-up view of a mountain hut with a wooden facade and red shutters, situated on a rocky pathway. People are gathered outside, with a dramatic backdrop of towering, craggy peaks partially obscured by misty clouds.
    Check hut facilities

⛰️Look for fun features along the way

Lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and ridge walks add an extra layer of excitement to any hike. Kids love having a goal along the way – something to look forward to beyond just reaching the hut.

Scrambling across a suspension bridge, paddling in a glacial river or looking for bearded vultures and marmots can keep them motivated and excited for what’s ahead. These little highlights help keep the energy levels up and add to the sense of discovery, making the hike feel even more rewarding.

  • A marmot sits upright on a rocky outcrop surrounded by grassy slopes, a charming encounter along the scenic route to Col de la Lauze.
    Marmot spotting

Best hut to hut hiking routes for families in the Alps

Based on my own family experiences, below are some family-friendly routes in the Dolomites, Austria and France that offer a perfect blend of manageable trails, stunning scenery, and welcoming huts. Some of these routes would suit kids from as young as five.

Dolomites, Italy

A perfect first hut to hut hike in the Dolomites with kids

This route is ideal for families new to hut hiking. The trail offers gentle paths with breath taking views, making it accessible and enjoyable for both kids and adults. Along the way, you’ll stay in family-friendly huts that provide comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. The combination of stunning landscapes and manageable distances makes this an excellent introduction to multi-day hiking.

  • A stunning sunset view of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks in the Dolomites, with the moon visible in the sky and soft orange and pink clouds stretching across the horizon. The rugged terrain and grassy patches create a dramatic backdrop for a hut-to-hut hike in the Dolomites with kids.
    The Tre Cime (Drei Zinnen)

Dolomites hut hiking with kids: 3 nights through the Rosengarten

For a slightly longer and more challenging adventure, the Rosengarten trek offers a three-night journey through one of the most picturesque areas of the Dolomites. The trails are well-marked and suitable for families, with daily hikes that are challenging yet achievable. Children and adults will love the opportunity to spot marmots. The huts along this route are known for their hospitality and hearty meals, ensuring a comfortable stay each night.

  • A rustic alpine hut in the Dolomites surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and lush greenery. Hikers are seated outside the hut, enjoying the view under a partly cloudy sky.
    The Rotwandhütte

Austria

Family friendly hut to hut hike with kids near Salzburg

Easily accessible from Salzburg, this three-day trek features fairly gentle distances, well-marked trails, reasonable ascents, and breath taking views of the rugged Bischofsmütze peak. The hike takes you through lush alpine meadows, along scenic ridges and ends at a beautiful alpine lake. The hike finishes at the top of a cable car, so you can choose to descend to the trail head (where there’s a bus stop) on foot or by lift, depending on how strong you’re feeling. A perfect introduction to multi-day hiking in the Austrian Alps!

  • A group of hikers on a hut to hut hike in Austria ascends a grassy hill near a rustic mountain hut surrounded by cows and picturesque Alpine scenery. The scene features rolling green pastures, distant valleys, and dramatic mountain peaks under a bright blue sky. Forested slopes and scattered wildflowers enhance the idyllic landscape.
    Hiking past the Stuhlalm

Austria hut hikes with kids: A family adventure in the Lienz Dolomites

The Lienz Dolomites in southern Austria offer a fantastic setting for a family hut to hut hike. This three-day, slightly more technically challenging trek takes you through lush meadows and past sharp limestone peaks, providing diverse and captivating scenery. The trails are suitable for families with children, and the huts provide cosy accommodations with traditional Austrian cuisine. It’s an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, making it memorable for the whole family.

  • The Laserzsee lake with the Karlsbaderhütte perched on a hill, surrounded by rugged alpine peaks
    The Karlsbaderhütte and Laserzsee

France

3 Day 2 Night Family Friendly Hut to Hut Hike from Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Tihs a 3-day, 2-night hut to hut hike close to Bourg-Saint-Maurice features manageable daily distances and well-maintained trails that wind through picturesque landscapes. Each day’s hike leads to a welcoming mountain hut, providing comfortable accommodations, hearty meals and amazing views. It’s an ideal introduction to multi-day hiking in a beautiful and accessible part of the French Alps.

  • Two hikers wearing hats and backpacks walk through a lush green alpine landscape with towering mountains in the background. The rugged peaks have patches of snow, and the foreground is dotted with rocks and wildflowers. The sunlight casts long shadows across the hills, highlighting the natural beauty of the remote location.
    Hiking in the Savoie

These routes have been tried and tested, offering a balance of adventure and comfort. They provide an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to the joys of hiking and the beauty of the mountains. Before setting out, ensure you check the specific details of each route to plan according to your family’s needs and abilities.

Click here for a list of all my hut to hut hiking routes, from first time hikes with kids to more challenging hikes most suitable for strong teens and adults.

Packing list for hut to hut hiking with kids: Essentials for parents & children

Packing light is key to enjoying a hut to hut hike. For a detailed packing list, check out my complete guide here, but here’s a quick rundown of the essentials.

🎒The must-haves for adults & kids

  • Lightweight backpack – Bigger kids can carry a 20-30L pack with most of their own clothing and snacks. Adults will need something bigger (35-40L) for their clothing and any shared family essentials.
  • Pack weight matters – A general rule of thumb is to carry 10–20% of your body weight including water and snacks. Kids should carry even less; no more than 10–15% of their body weight, so a 30 kg child’s pack should stay under 3–4 kg. 
  • Layered clothing – Mountain weather is unpredictable, so pack moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket. Hats and gloves are useful even in summer.
  • Good hiking footwear – Boots or trail shoes. Break them in before the trip! No one wants blisters halfway through the hike. Bring lightweight hut slippers or crocs for when boots aren’t allowed inside.
  • Snacks & small distractions – Huts serve meals, but having quick energy boosts like cereal bars, nuts, or dried fruit is useful. A simple deck of cards or a lightweight game can keep kids entertained in the evenings.
  • Sleeping liners – Huts provide blankets, but you’ll need a lightweight sleeping bag liner (silk or cotton). Some huts rent them, but it’s easier to bring your own.

This is just the basics—head over to my complete hut hiking packing list here for a full breakdown, including optional extras and weight-saving tips!

What to expect in a mountain hut with kids: Sleeping, food & facilities

If you’re new to mountain huts, check out my beginner’s guide to mountain huts: essential tips for first-timers for everything you need to know before your first stay.

Spending the night in a mountain hut is a unique and fun experience, and knowing what to expect can make it even more enjoyable. While every hut is slightly different, here’s a general idea of what you and your family can expect when staying in one.

Rooms

Huts usually offer a mix of private rooms and dormitories. Private rooms are ideal for families as you get privacy and a bit more space, and you won’t be disturbed by other people if you’ve headed to bed early. Dorms are a great way for kids to experience the social side of hut hiking, but they’re often pretty noisy and sometimes, the sleeping setup consists of rows of mattresses placed side by side, meaning you may end up sleeping quite close to other hikers. Some larger huts do have family-specific dorms though, which are a good balance between privacy and affordability.

  • A cozy wooden room in a mountain hut, featuring four simple single beds with checkered beige bedding. Red and white checkered curtains frame a small window, letting in natural light. This is the sort of private room families can book on a hut to hut hike with kids.
    A private room in a mountain hut

Food

Mountain huts usually have a buffet style breakfast of bread, meats and cheeses, jam and often cereal and yoghurt, plus coffee and tea. Then there’s an a la carte menu for lunch, and a set menu (or sometimes a la carte) for dinner. The menu consists of hearty alpine meals, usually including a soup or salad, a filling main dish (such as pasta, dumplings, or stews), and a simple dessert. Most huts cater well for kids, offering smaller portions or child-friendly options like pasta with tomato sauce (or cheese, if your kids don’t like tomatoes…yes, welcome to my life). If anyone in your family has dietary requirements, it’s best to check in advance, but most huts can accommodate special requests.

  • A family of three is dining at a cozy wooden rifigio, huette, or mountain hut in the Italian Dolomites. The table is set with breakfast items like croissants, jam, and coffee. The room is warmly lit with wooden decor and a counter in the background. Everyone is smiling at the camera. They wear colourful hiking clothes and sit at a table with a red tablecloth.
    Breakfast at the Lavaredohütte

Facilities

Hut facilities range from basic to quite comfortable. Some have hot showers (usually for a small extra charge), while others only offer cold water or none at all. Toilets are usually shared, and in some higher-altitude huts, you might find composting toilets instead of flush toilets. Electricity is usually available, but charging outlets may be limited, so bringing a power bank is a good idea.

Social Atmosphere

One of the best parts of hut hiking is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Many huts have communal dining areas where families can chat with other hikers over dinner. Kids often make new friends, and many huts have board games or small play areas. It’s a great way to unwind after a day on the trail and soak in the mountain experience.

How to keep kids motivated on multi-day hikes: Tips for a fun & easy trek

Keeping kids engaged and excited on a multi-day hike is all about making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. My kids often struggle with the idea of a walk “just for the sake of a walk,” but when it’s a journey with a purpose – staying in mountain huts, reaching new peaks, and soaking up amazing views – it feels much more worth the effort for them.

  • Two kids hut to hut hiking in the Dolomites sit on a grassy hill overlooking a vast, mountainous landscape. The sky is partly cloudy, and the scene includes rugged peaks and lush, green valleys. They are dressed casually, with hats and jackets.

So, if your kids usually whinge about “going for a walk” at home, don’t assume they’ll have the same attitude on a hut hike! The sense of adventure and the ever-changing scenery make a huge difference. A little planning and creativity can go a long way in turning a long walk into an exciting challenge that keeps their energy levels high and spirits up. Here are some tried-and-tested strategies that I use to help.

Make it fun

Turning the hike into a game can make all the difference. Simple activities like a scavenger hunt, spotting different types of wildlife, or even a friendly competition to see who can find the best hiking stick can keep kids entertained for hours. Singing songs, playing “Who Am I,” or making up stories about the landscape around you also help distract from tired legs.

  • A young girl in a red shirt, blue patterned skirt, and hiking boots walks along a rocky mountain trail surrounded by lush green pine trees. She carries a backpack and uses a sturdy walking stick, appearing focused on her hike. In the background, a towering mountain peak is partially obscured by clouds against a bright blue sky. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path.

Break up long days

Stopping regularly for snacks, play, and rest is key to keeping energy levels up. Pick break spots near rivers, lakes, or viewpoints where kids can explore, throw stones in the water, or climb a massive boulder. Giving them something to look forward to along the way – like a stop for an energy boosting Kaiserschmarrn – makes the distance feel shorter. Their energy also seems to miraculously return the moment they’re free to play rather than walk, which can be frustrating as a parent! But it’s also proof that they’re physically more resilient than they (and you) might think.

  • A young boy smiling widely while seated at a wooden table, holding a fork and ready to enjoy a plate of Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional Austrian dessert topped with powdered sugar and served with applesauce. The setting appears cozy and rustic, with a menu and decorations visible in the background.
    Kaiserschmarrn – perfect fuel!

Choose huts with a bonus

Some mountain huts have friendly animals, playgrounds, or fun terrain that kids love. Staying somewhere with a little extra entertainment at the end of the day can be a great motivator. If there’s a nearby peak to climb, a stream to splash in, hammocks to enjoy (or fight over…) or even a stash of board games inside the hut, kids will often arrive excited rather than exhausted.

  • A child sliding down a red slide at a mountain viewpoint, overlooking a valley and surrounding peaks.
    This hut had a slide and trampoline!
Start with shorter hikes

For first-time hut hikers, keeping the first trip short and manageable helps build confidence and enthusiasm. A hike with 5 – 8 km per day and moderate elevation gain is a good starting point. Once kids have a positive first experience, they’ll be much more willing to tackle longer adventures in the future. This hike in the Dolomites is perfect for first timers. The views are to die for, but it’s accessible, the distances are short, and you gain most of the elevation in the bus ride to the start point.

Make downtime enjoyable

On your first few hut hikes, you’ll likely have plenty of downtime once you arrive at the hut, especially if you’ve planned short days. While it might seem counterintuitive, giving kids some indoor relaxation time can make the experience much smoother. If a bit of tablet time helps them wind down, there’s no harm in allowing it in moderation. Our kids also love listening to audiobooks, which is a great way for them to rest while still feeling engaged. The more relaxed they are at the hut, the more energy they’ll have for the next day’s hike!

  • Two children relax on a gray picnic blanket in a mountainous landscape near the Drei Zinnen Hütte. One wears a teal jacket and rainbow-striped pants, listening to headphones, while the other, in a blue jacket, lies next to a tablet. The background features rugged gray peaks, a serene lake, and scattered clouds in the sky.
    A good view for listening to an audiobook!

By focusing on fun, pacing, and the right rewards, multi-day hiking can be a fantastic experience for the whole family.

How to book mountain huts for a family-friendly hiking adventure

Planning ahead is key to a smooth hut to hut hiking experience. While some huts can accommodate last-minute solo hikers, most popular ones book up well in advance – especially those with family-friendly facilities. Accommodating a whole family at the last minute is almost never possible.

Here’s how to get organised.

  • Book early – Most huts open reservations for the summer season in early January, but on popular routes, like in the Dolomites, bookings can open as early as October (right after the previous summer season ends). While huts don’t always fill up immediately, leaving it too late means you might miss out on a private family room and end up in a large dormitory, or in the worst case, not get a spot at all. The best approach is to decide on your route early and then do your research on the huts along the way – most will have a website which will clearly state when bookings open and how to reserve your spot. Read more here: When to Book Mountain Huts (So You’re Not Left Without a Bed on Your Hut to Hut Hike!)
  • Direct booking vs. online platforms – Some huts can be booked online, while others require phone calls or emails. If language is a barrier, Google Translate and polite, simple messages go a long way!
  • Check requirements – Some huts require Alpine Club membership for discounted rates or priority booking (I did not have membership at the start though, and it did not affect my ability to book, I just didn’t receive the members discount. If you only hut to hut hike occasionally, it’s probably not worth it). Most huts usually have specific rules about meal timings and bookings and bringing sleeping bag liners.
  • Confirm details – Check what’s included in your stay (half board, packed lunches, payment options) so there are no surprises.
  • The Karlsbaderhütte reflected in the tranquil Laserzsee lake, with rugged alpine peaks in the background, ideal for Austria hut hikes with kids.
    Karlsbaderhütte, Lienz Dolomites
  • A rustic alpine hut in the Dolomites surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and lush greenery. Hikers are seated outside the hut, enjoying the view under a partly cloudy sky.
    The Rotwandhütte, Rosengarten Dolomites
  • People enjoy dining at an outdoor restaurant set in a mountainous landscape during sunset. Sunlight bathes the area, casting golden hues on the rocky terrain and the seated guests. The sky is partly cloudy with mountains silhouetted in the background.
    Grasleitenhütte. Rosengarten Dolomites
  • A scenic alpine landscape featuring a mountain hut with red shutters and a stone exterior, surrounded by rocky terrain and patches of grass. In the distance, jagged peaks rise dramatically against a backdrop of blue sky and billowing clouds. The scene captures the rugged beauty of a high-altitude environment.
    Lavaredohütte, Tre Cime Dolomites

Planning your itinerary

  • Choose the right route – Picking the right trail is key to a successful hut to hut adventure with kids. Look for trails with distances and elevation gain that match your family’s ability level. Consider huts accessible by lift or with shorter hiking days if it’s your first time. For a more detailed guide on selecting routes, check out How to choose the right hut to hut hiking route and explore some great options in Best family-friendly hut to hut routes.
  • Factor in hut locations – Some huts are high up and require a longer climb at the end of the day. Others sit near lakes or meadows, making them great for a relaxed afternoon after hiking.
  • Have a backup plan – Weather, injuries, or tired kids can all change your itinerary. Know if there are alternative exit points or easier routes between huts. Many routes have options to take a cable car down to a bus stop, significantly shortening the hike out if needed. Some trails offer a more direct descent to a road, where you can arrange a taxi or public transport. In certain areas, huts are connected by multiple trail options, meaning you might be able to take an easier path to the next hut or loop back to your starting point more quickly. It’s always worth researching these options in advance so you know your escape routes before you need them.
  • Plan for flexibility – Unlike day hikes, adjusting plans on a hut hike isn’t always easy since huts tend to be fully booked. If you run into difficulties, you might be able to beg for an emergency bed—most huts keep a few in reserve for extreme situations like storms—but you shouldn’t rely on this as part of your plan. The best approach is to plan a hike that’s easier than you think you can manage. If it turns out that everyone is loving it and still full of energy, you can always add extra hikes, like a detour to a peak, an afternoon loop from the hut, or an extended route to the next hut.

A well-planned itinerary and secured hut bookings will make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable.

Safety & practical tips for hut to hut hiking with kids in the Alps

  • Weather awareness – Mountain weather changes fast, so stay updated by checking forecasts before setting out and keeping an eye on conditions throughout the whole adventure. If you’re in Austria or the Dolomites, I use Bergfex for weather forecasts. Always listen to hut guardians; they know the trails and weather patterns better than anyone and can give valuable advice on what to expect. Make sure your backpack has a waterproof cover and use dry bags inside to keep essential items protected. Pack extra layers, as temperatures drop quickly at altitude. It’s easy to underestimate how much colder it gets at altitude, especially if you take a bus or ski lift to your start point because suddenly, you can be 1,000m higher than where you started, with a significant drop in temperature and wind chill. Always pack extra layers, even if it feels warm at lower elevations, as conditions can change quickly once you gain height.
  • Emergency planning – Carry a first aid kit, know the emergency numbers for the area, and make sure you have offline maps in case of poor signal. I use Komoot Premium, which allows me to download offline maps so I can navigate even without a phone signal. If you’re relying on your phone for navigation, make sure you have a way to keep it charged at all times, whether that’s a power bank or a solar charger. I also always carry a backup paper map, just in case something happens to my phone.
  • Trail markings – Teach kids how to recognize trail markers and signs so they can help navigate and stay aware of the route. Even if visibility is poor, make sure you can read a map well enough to know what’s around you – is there a steep drop to one side of the path, or maybe a bog or marshy area ahead? Knowing what’s coming up helps you stay prepared, both physically and mentally, making tricky sections feel more manageable.
  • Respect for nature – Encourage kids to leave no trace and to stick to marked trails – not just for safety, but also to protect the environment. Walking off-trail contributes to erosion and damage to fragile alpine environments, especially in higher-altitude areas where plants take decades to recover. Toileting on the trail is something to plan for – many huts are in remote areas without facilities nearby. If kids (or adults) need to go, move well away from water sources and the trail, dig a small hole, and pack out used toilet paper in a sealable bag. Teaching kids why this matters helps instill good outdoor habits for life.
  • Respect for hut rules – Follow hut etiquette, like keeping noise levels down in shared sleeping areas. Take all rubbish with you, avoiding picking flowers or disturbing wildlife, and being mindful of how you move through the landscape.

Taking these precautions ensures a safer and smoother experience for the whole family.

Final thoughts: Why every adventurous family should try hut to hut hiking at least once

If you’ve never tried hut to hut hiking as a family, I can’t recommend it enough. It might seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience that gives both kids and adults a real sense of adventure.

Even if you’re new to hiking, don’t be put off; there are plenty of beginner-friendly routes, and with well-marked trails and comfortable huts, you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy it. The key is to plan conservatively, start with a shorter, manageable route, and let the experience build your confidence.

Hut hiking isn’t just about the walking – it’s about teaching resilience, independence, and a love for the outdoors. It’s about seeing your kids take on a challenge and surprise themselves with what they’re capable of. And it’s about parents having just as much fun as the kids! If you’re ready to plan your first trip, check out my detailed hut to hut hiking routes and itineraries on the blog. There’s a route out there that’s perfect for your family – so start planning, pack your bags, and get out there!

  • A happy family of hikers waving at the Klammbrückl car park trailhead in Austria, ready for a memorable hut hiking journey with kids.
    At the end of our 3 day hike in the Lienz Dolomites – my parents, husband and kids!

Further reading on family friendly hut hiking

Off season hiking – Mallorca in Spring and Autumn

Gear & packing for hut to hut hiking

Tips for hut to hut hiking

Bea Searle is the creator of Wild Bee Outdoors. Having lived in Austria as a kid, she fell in love with the mountains early on. Passionate about sustainable train travel and outdoor adventures with her family, Bea shares local insights, detailed routes, and plenty of tips for hut to hut hiking and multi-day cycling trips in the European Alps and beyond; along with ideas for worthwhile detours to make every journey unforgettable. Her goal? To inspire you to embrace the mountains, dodge the tourist traps, and explore with confidence.

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