A hike on an alpine pasture is a lovely summer destination for families. At the same time, pastures are managed land and not a petting zoo. Cows, calves, sheep or horses need distance and calm. Parents who prepare children with a few clear rules before the hike can avoid many tricky situations.
Before the hike: choose the route realistically
Check the distance, elevation gain, weather and places to stop. A route that adults can manage easily can be considerably more tiring for children because of heat and climbs. Bring water, sun protection, sturdy shoes and a small snack. You'll also find a similar plan with breaks and the return route in our Cycling tour with children.
The most important rules around grazing animals
- Keep your distance:Do not touch, feed or crowd animals for a photo.
- Stay on the path:If the situation allows, use marked paths and give the herd a wide berth.
- Behave calmly:Don't shout, run, or point sticks at animals.
- Never separate calves from the herd:Mother animals may protect their young.
- Take warning signs seriously:Fixating, lowering the head, snorting or rapid approach are reasons to calmly increase your distance.
Guide children safely through the pasture section
Discuss the rules before the first cow. Young children walk holding hands or close to an adult. The family stays together as a group. Ball, snack and rustling toys stay in the backpack until the animals are far away.
If a herd is blocking the path, wait at a sufficient distance or take a wide, safe detour. Don't force your way between individual animals. If no safe passage is visible, turning back is the right decision.
With a dog on the pasture
Dogs can be perceived as a threat by grazing animals. The Alpine Club recommends keeping dogs under control on a short leash and keeping your distance. If an attack occurs, the dog should be released so it can move out of the way. Plan in advance whether the route is suitable for a dog, and observe local signs.
If an animal approaches
- Keep calm and hold children close.
- Do not turn your back on the animal and do not run away.
- Slowly step back and look for a safe way out.
- Only use the walking stick to indicate distance visibly; don't hit or wave it frantically.
- If in doubt, leave the area and abandon the route.
A simple family rule
'We look, but we don't go closer' is easier for children to remember than many separate instructions. Animals are observed from a distance. This protects people and respects the work of alpine farmers.
Before longer outings it's also worth taking a quick look at our Travel checklist. It can be adapted for a daypack, weather protection and personal medication.
Source and further information
Article image: AI-generated symbolic image.
