Follow a trail into Montana's spectacular wilderness and discover a place where the natural world comes to life. Waterfalls roar, canyons howl, rivers run, brooks babble and aspen groves dance to the rhythm of the wind.

Hiking is a fantastic way to introduce children to the outdoors. I began day-hiking with my daughter, Jasmine, in a frontpack when she was an infant. Together we would follow pathways into the wilderness and find ourselves immersed in nature.

As time passed, Jasmine began crawling along trails, tasting mud and sticks and examining the bugs that traveled the same path. Crawling turned into trail toddling, and in time, to walking. Always overcome with curiosity, she would stop and inspect every rock, flower, critter or hollow tree along the way.

Now at age 5 she is able to hike for miles, but is more focused to stay on track if further along the trail awaits a grand destination, such as a cave, hot spring or mountain summit.

As children grow older some begin to think the word "hike" is just a fancy term for forced marching. Upon realizing this, I now use the word "explore." For kids, it sounds like a lot more fun.

Day hiking is the easiest way to begin exploring the outdoors with children. Anyone can do it, very little gear is needed, and in the Helena area, a great trail is never far away.

Here are a few suggestions on how to help children be comfortable, safe and engaged in the wonderful world outdoors.

- Bring along a backpack containing plenty of water and snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a basic first-aid kit and a mini diaper kit if needed. Also pack a warm layer and rain jacket to be prepared for the region's unpredictable weather.

- Include children in age-appropriate trip planning. Let them help pack food, study a map or choose a route. This will get them excited about the expedition.

- Choose a trail with terrain and gradient suitable for the youngest child. Even short excursions offer a memorable wilderness experience.

- Expect to travel much slower when hiking with young children than you would on your own. Being naturally inquisitive, they will carefully investigate the many wonders of the natural world. Remember three of their steps equal one of yours, so let them set the pace.

- Always keep safety in mind when traveling through an uncontrolled environment. Remind children to pay attention to their surroundings. Be aware of what plants and berries to avoid and observe wild animals from a safe distance.

- Travel together, but instruct children to stay in one place if they discover they are lost. Have everyone carry a whistle.

- Teach kids to respect wild places by always following Leave No Trace ethics. Remind children that every living thing wants to live.

- Younger children may enjoy using field guides to identify birds, flowers, trees, mushrooms or animal tracks. Give them a camera and watch them transform into a wildlife photographer.

- Setting out to achieve a goal in the outdoors may help engage older children. Geocaching turns a hike into a treasure hunt by using a Global Positioning System (GPS) to locate hidden caches. They may also enjoy route finding with a map and compass.

- Hiking provides countless opportunities to witness up close the circle of life. Take a child hiking and help them discover a path leading to a lifetime of outdoor adventure and exploration. You may not reach the end of the trail, but never underestimate all that is learned along the way.

Mariah Davis is the founder of Adventures Unlimited. For information visit adventuresmt.org