Make a trail with pine cones in the backyard to provide an outdoor gross motor game for toddlers and preschoolers. A pine cone trail promotes movement and fine motor play in a simple hands-on activity.
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A favorite game for kids is Follow the Leader, an activity that leads you on a new adventure every time you play.
This pine cone trail activity combines a scavenger hunt with a game of Follow the Leader, except your following pine cones instead of a ‘leader’.
We are fortunate to have a large pine tree in our yard. Every spring there is an abundance of pine cones on the ground that are fun to collect for crafts and activities.
Creating an outdoor trail for kids to follow is one way to have fun with pine cones. A pine cone trail provides a unique sensory and gross motor play opportunity for early learners.
Note: It is recommended that natural pine cones be properly cleaned for kids activities.
Related: Pine cones in the sandbox
If you don’t have pine cones available in nature, you can usually find them in a department store or craft store, or purchase online.
Pine cone trail activity
Spread pine cones on the lawn in a long winding trail. Go around trees or bushes, a swing set, or other props in the yard.
Space the pine cones just enough so kids have to walk to spot the next one, but not far enough to lose sight of the trail.
Place a bucket or sand pail at the end of the trail. We ended our trail with a red beach pail and shovel under the pine tree in the yard.
Grab the pail and retrace your steps! Walk back along the trail, collecting pine cones in your pail as you go.
To extend the activity try using the sand shovel, or even tongs, to pick up the pine cones.
Use pine cones in crafts and activities
Math games: Count the pine cones. Weigh pine cones. Sort cones by size.
Observation: Talk about the color and texture of the pine cones.
Sensory play: Add pine cones to the sand bin.
Play and learn: Introduce interesting facts about pine cones with science activities.
Get outside for a game of Follow the Pine Cone Trail. There’s lots of hands-on learning and sensory experiences waiting for kids to enjoy.
More pine cone activities from kid bloggers!
Pinecone Bats from Fireflies and Mudpies
Pinecone Winter Owls from Easy Peasy and Fun
Pinecone Pals from Sunshine Whispers
Pine Cone Science Experiment from Lemon Lime Adventures