More ways to have fun with the kiddos this summer!

We're fortunate to live in a place with hiking, running and biking trails right outside our backdoors.

Recognizing that, Out There recently shared tips for hiking and adventuring with your kids.

The great folks at REI remind us they have programs to encourage kids to have fun outdoors. You can download a FREE Kids Adventure Journal and outdoor games, learn more about the Great American Backyard Campout (June 23), and activities to celebrate National Trails Day (June 2).

Check out the classes at the Colorado Springs REI store (1376 E Woodmen Road) for those that might interest your family or give you the knowledge you need to get out there.

Mountain Chalet, our downtown outdoors store, also offers classes, workshops and slide shows that can spark a love of the outdoors.

And El Paso County's parks also have great free and low-cast outdoors programs for families, including nature hikes, birding trips and the free Family Outdoor Club.

Area state parks - Cheyenne Mountain, Mueller and Castlewood Canyon - also offer programs for families, which are listed in the Events Calendar at OutThereColorado.com.