Over the years the joy of hiking has evolved for me: going from a three hour eight miler up Conundrum (in my most fit of days) to a leisurely stroll near Horsetooth at 41 weeks pregnant. (Pictured)

Rediscovering hiking with small children has been an adventure in and of itself. For those with children under five, hiking can still be an adventure, you may just not make it up to the tippy top of your destination…or maybe you will! At any rate, before selecting the hike you want to attempt understand that though you may make it to the top, the kids will need to be carried at some point so, of course, bring your carriers!

Here is a small checklist to help families of all shapes and sizes to hike successfully:

Research - Google a few different hikes that are good for children, the search engines should come up with several options that have reviews of the hikes by people who have attempted them with actual children. I have found reviews have been really helpful and honest.

Let Go of Expectations - The hike is three miles? You may make it 2… or less. Hiking with kids is less about the destination and more about the scenery.

Bring the carriers - Whether you prefer a backpack or a sling or some other crafty carrier most likely you will need something depending on the hikes difficulty level. Strollers are often a good option too. Strollers have some a long way since the days of the plastic umbrella strollers (which are fantastic in their own right, just not for hiking) and there are more and more that cater to the off road options. One great example for this type of stroller is the Mountain Buggy company.

Hydration and Libations - Water and food are extremely important on the family hike. A hungry hiker fun times do not make.

Sunscreen - Apply, apply, apply!

Cuts and scrapes will happen - hiking is tricky for those little feet with all sorts of rocks to trip them up! I always like to bring a few BandAids and some antiseptic spray just in case.

Good luck and enjoy that scenery~

Thanks, Kayla for the topic suggestion!!