Toddler-Friendly Hiking Trails Around Wenatchee: Easy Hikes for Little Legs

Hiking with toddlers isn’t always smooth — there are snack stops, rock collecting, and at least one meltdown over wearing the wrong socks.

But there’s something magical about seeing your little one take on a trail — balancing on logs, spotting birds, stuffing their pockets with pinecones. And lucky for us, the Wenatchee Valley is full of family-friendly hikes that are actually doable with toddlers in tow.

Whether you’re pushing a stroller, carrying a baby on your back, or letting your tiny explorer walk beside you, these trails are short, safe, and packed with discovery.

1. Jacobson Preserve (Wenatchee)

Distance: ~2-mile loop
Why we love it: Shady, quiet, and great views of the valley. Wide trails for wobbly walkers and lots of birds and bunnies to spot.

Tips: Start early in the summer — it gets hot. Bring a hat and water. The trails are dirt, but manageable with a rugged stroller if you stick to the lower loop.

2. Apple Capital Loop Trail (Wenatchee Riverfront)

Distance: As short or long as you want (loop is 10+ miles total)
Why we love it: Paved and stroller-friendly, with playgrounds, river views, and lots of spots to stop and explore.

Tips: Park near Pybus Market or Walla Walla Point Park and walk a section. Great for scooters and balance bikes, too.

3. Sage Hills Trail System

Distance: Up to 5.5 miles with options for young kids
Why we love it: This lower meadow trail offers well-established walking (and mountain biking trails) with gentle inclines and cool rocks to climb on.

Tips: The parking lot is very tiny — have a backup plan.

4. Ohme Gardens (Wenatchee)

Distance: Varies (1–2 hours of wandering)
Why we love it: A dreamy, shady garden with rock paths, hidden ponds, and mossy steps. Feels like a fairyland — perfect for imaginative toddlers.

Tips: Admission fee applies. Some paths are steep or uneven, so it's best for confident walkers or babywearing.

5. Peshastin Pinnacles State Park (Peshastin)

Distance: Stick to the base trails (~1 mile)
Why we love it: Epic scenery and giant rock formations that make your toddler feel like they’re on a real expedition.

Tips: It’s sandy, so not stroller-friendly, but totally manageable with good shoes. Keep an eye on little ones — some trails run alongside steep drop-offs.

6. Wenatchee Confluence State Park

Distance: Up to 2 miles, paved
Why we love it: Flat, scenic riverfront path with wide open grassy areas, bathrooms, and parking. Ideal for a low-stress, flexible outing.

Tips: Great for evening strolls or spontaneous “let’s get outside” afternoons. Bonus: There’s a nearby playground.

🌿 Quick Tips for Hiking with Toddlers:

• Snacks are essential. Like, more than you think.

• Let go of mileage goals. It’s about the journey, not the destination.

• Pack layers. PNW weather can flip-flop fast.

• Build in time for rock collecting, stick sword-fighting, and snack breaks.

• Sing songs, play “I Spy,” and embrace the slowness. Toddlers will stop every 3 feet.

Final Thought

Hiking with toddlers isn’t about bagging peaks — it’s about building a love of nature from the ground up. These short, scenic trails are the perfect way to get started (or to keep going) without turning your outing into an endurance test.

Grab your water bottles, your tiny explorers, and your lowest expectations — and go enjoy the Valley one step at a time.