Hiking with a Toddler

Luckily, our 1,000 mile move came with spectacular scenery and a plethora of activity options. Each weekend we visit state and national parks and hike to lakes and waterfalls, and it is so much fun.


We immediately purchased a Kelty Child Carrier for hiking with our toddler. We could not have made a better purchase. You just can't hike very far with a regular infant carrier, and this carrier/backpack will comfortably hold a toddler. The backpack portion is great for carrying sunscreen, picnic lunches, diapers, water bottles, and jackets. There have been two occasions when my husband has offered to take our little one out on a short hike so I can have an hour or two to get things done at home. This carrier also has a detachable shade that goes over the top like a little umbrella to protect her from the sun and rain.

As you can see, I even took a turn... yes, it was downhill :-)

We usually drive to a trailhead mid-morning and then hike one to three miles to a waterfall or lake, then we have a picnic lunch before heading back. It's nice to get out and away from life's distractions.

We had rented one of these carriers when we vacationed to Breckenridge in July, so we knew that it would be a great investment. Our little one is so content to look around, and she loves the chipmunks. We recently passed some elk on our hike, and she yelled "moose!" which was hilarious. (It's her new favorite word.) For the first time last weekend, we saw a bear. Oh my goodness. Luckily, we were in car. But the bear was shimmying up a tall tree. Whoa.

Now that fall is here, we are anticipating getting snow before long. Several years ago, my husband and I went snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park and had the best time. It was absolutely breathtaking. We are looking forward to experiencing it as a family this winter!