A classic family biking activity is a scavenger hunt and it is the perfect way to add fun to your family ride. You can create a list of items to find along your cycling route, like certain types of trees, wildlife, landmarks, or even specific colours or shapes (think: "Find a red flower" or "Spot a bird in flight").

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
Keep the list simple and visually engaging, perhaps with pictures instead of written clues. Focus on easily identifiable objects, like flowers, rocks, or animals. The thrill of spotting a new object will keep little ones excited while out on family bike rides!

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Create a more complex scavenger hunt on bikes, by including riddles or clues that lead to specific locations. You can even introduce small challenges, like "perform a silly dance at the next stop" or "take a family photo at the halfway point." 

Need some help?

Why not download our free ‘Scavenger Hunt’ activity sheet >>

Nature rides for families, are a great way to explore parks, nature reserves, or even urban green spaces while enjoying the fresh air. Choose routes that highlight scenic views, ponds, forests, or fields, and take time to appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
Opt for short, manageable family bike rides with plenty of stops to observe wildlife or explore nature up close. A nature ride for toddlers can include a few stops to collect leaves, identify flowers, or dip toes in a stream.

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Incorporate educational elements into your family bike rides, by challenging kids to identify animals, trees, or plants along the way. You can make a checklist of things to look for and have them keep track of what they spot.

Need help?

Check out our ‘Family day out sustainability checklist’ >>

For tech-savvy families, geo-tagging biking activities offer a thrilling way to connect cycling with modern technology. Use a geo-tagging app (such as Strava or Komoot) to track and map your family bike ride route, or create your own "virtual treasure map" where riders find geo-tagged locations. 

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
While toddlers may not use the app directly, they can help "unlock" geo-tagged spots by riding toward them. You could make it an exciting race for toddlers to find certain locations!

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Have older kids use a tablet or phone to follow along the geo-tagged adventure. They’ll love the mix of physical activity and technology as they navigate to each location on the family bike ride.

What’s better than a biking adventure? A family biking adventure that ends with a delicious picnic! 

A bike picnic is an ideal family activity that combines exploration with a tasty treat. Choose a bike-friendly trail or local park, and plan to stop for a picnic along the way. 

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
Choose a short, flat route with a variety of sights along the way. Kids will love the idea of riding to a destination where they can sit down and enjoy snacks. Pack a small bag or basket with sandwiches, fruit, and treats.

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Encourage older kids to pack their picnic baskets with their favourite snacks or sandwiches for the family bike ride. You can challenge them to create a themed picnic, like "rainbow foods" or "finger foods."

What should I pack for a family bike picnic?

Take a look at our ‘Tips for planning a family-friendly picnic’ blog for more ideas>>

What are some competitive biking activities for families?

For a competitive yet fun activity, organise a family bike ride relay race. This is an exciting way to go biking with kids, from the youngest to the oldest family member, with each person riding a designated portion of the route.

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
For younger children, make the race about having fun rather than speed. Cycling for toddlers can seem daunting, so why not get them to "race" with a parent on a shorter segment or tag team with a sibling for extra excitement?

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Involve older kids in longer race segments, where they can race independently. Each participant could ride a short loop or even a lap around the neighbourhood before tagging the next person in line - it makes for the perfect family relay race!

How can I plan a family bike camping trip?

Take your biking adventure to the next level with a family bike camping trip. This is an incredible way to combine biking with kids, and outdoor exploration with a night under the stars providing a memorable bonding experience.

For toddlers and young children (Ages 2–6)
For little ones, keep the bike ride short and manageable, nothing too strenuous! You can pack a child carrier or trailer for younger kids. Once at the campsite, set up a cosy space with their favourite stuffed animals and toys, making it a special outdoor family adventure.

For older kids (Ages 7–13)
Older kids will love the excitement of biking to the campsite and helping set up tents and cook meals over the campfire. Involve them in planning the family bike ride and packing essentials like snacks, sleeping bags, and lanterns - It’s the ultimate outdoor family adventure!

Click here to download our free ‘Mindful colouring’ activity sheets >>