If you’ve been looking for a fun, low-cost way to make hikes more exciting for your kids, let me introduce you to our new favorite trail activity — the Forest Color Matching Game.

This activity is exactly what it sounds like: grab some paint swatches from the hardware store, clip them to your backpack, and challenge your little adventurers to find colors in nature that match each swatch. Moss green? Check. Bark brown? Got it. Bright yellow leaf? Score!

Why We Love It

• Cheap & Easy – Paint swatches are free, and the only other thing you need is a clip or string to attach them to your backpack.
• Encourages Observation – Kids start looking closely at the world around them, noticing subtle differences in leaves, flowers, and even rocks.
• Works Anywhere – From a shaded forest trail to a sunny meadow, there’s always a new set of colors to discover.
• Perfect for All Ages – Little ones love the hunt, and older kids enjoy the challenge of finding exact matches.

How to Make Your Own

1. Visit your local hardware or paint store and pick out a few paint swatches in colors that match your local environment.
2. Use a book clip, binder clip, or carabiner to attach them to your backpack.
3. Hit the trail and start the search!
4. Optional: Swap out swatches for different trails or seasons to keep things fresh.

This is now a Trail Mommas staple. Every hike feels like a brand-new game, and it’s amazing how something so simple can make the trail even more magical.

If you give it a try, tag us in your photos — we’d love to see your color matches! 🌲🎨