OutGrown Blog

Oregon means rain. And a lot of it. Like six months or more of it. There is no escaping it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t wear your baby for half of the year here. Here are a few tips to babywear in the rain and keep you, baby and carrier dry! Don’t worry too much about your carrier. Mud washes out. Wet dries. It takes a lot to truly ruin a carrier. Even a silk woven wrap will probably be okay after a romp in the rain. That being said, if you have a very special carrier, it might be best just to leave it safe at home. Always make sure baby’s airway is unobstructed, so any hoods, covers, ponchos or whatever you use to keep dry must not cover baby’s face. Breathing is always more important than dryness. And never alter the design of the carrier or put added stress on it. No babywearing accessories should compromise the integrity of your carrier. Safety is also more important than dryness. Umbrella I know it’s very un-Oregonian to suggest this, but an umbrella is an effective and easy way to keep dry while babywearing in the rain. It’s also inexpensive. Just put on baby’s and your normal appropriate outerwear, pop open the umbrella and go! This is a good option for when it’s just sprinkling or raining on and off. Or when it’s not cold and there's no jacket trapping in body heat. If you get a large enough umbrella—like a golf umbrella—this makes a great option for tandem wearing. The downside is you need to hold it the entire time. It also may bounce around as you walk and may not always cover baby (especially in a back carry). If you are tandem wearing, you'll need to pay extra attention to keep both kids covered. And another thing to consider is that kids like to grab them and possibly whack you. Babywearing jacket A babywearing jacket is designed to accommodate baby and carrier. Some are even designed for tandem wearing. They either have an extra panel zipped in or are bigger, with a cutout or hood for baby’s head. Put baby in the carrier, put on the jacket and enjoy some hands-free wearing in the rain! However, there are a few downsides. First, they can be expensive (though they do come up for reasonable prices in co-ops often). You also need to make sure you get the right size for both you, baby (babies for tandem) and carrier. And keep in mind that baby will grow, so you may need to buy on the larger side so it lasts longer. They are not commonly found it stores, so trying on for sizing is not usually possible. ​ But most are wonderful at keeping you, baby and carrier dry, so once you get one you like and that fits, you won't regret it! Carrier Cover A carrier cover is a great way make sure baby and the part of the carrier in contact with baby stays dry. This is a piece of waterproof fabric that goes over the front of the carrier with a hood for baby. You still need to put a jacket over you and the back of the carrier (if your carrier isn’t waterproof). Put baby in carrier, put on cover, then your jacket, and enjoy come snuggles in the rain. Most buckle carrier brands make covers designed for their specific carrier. There are also generic ones that can work with most carriers as well, including wraps and ring slings. The downside is the cover is separate from you, so there is the risk of rain leaking in. Also, the cover doesn't go around your back, so the back of your carrier may get wet or you may still need a babywearing or larger jacket over your back. Keep in mind that they are designed to go on easiest for front carries. You can use them for back carries, but someone else may need to put it on for you, and you'll need to buy two of them. If all else fails, just put a waterproof coat on you, one on baby and dry your carrier later. A little water doesn’t hurt; it might even add to your fun! Just make sure baby doesn't get too cold, risking hypothermia. Keeping baby as dry as possible in a waterproof layer and snuggled close to your body should keep baby warm. For information on layering baby to stay warm for the cold, check our post on layering for the cold! Happy babywearing in the rain!!!! What kind of creative ways do you try to babywear in the rain? We'd love to hear your tips and tricks in the comments below. Read more: 5 Comfy and cozy winter carriers for babywearing Tandem babywearing tips - How to carry two small hikers How to layer when babywearing in the cold Photo by Amy Diebold. This post was sponsored by Onya Baby. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.  

"Did you hear that?" There are noises outside the tent, like there are always noises outside the tent. "Thanks to your trip with Liz, I think every sound out there is a bear." My mom and I are lying on side-by-side twin air mattresses that take up the entirety of my parents' 3-person tent. It is my 23rd birthday and we are camping in Shenandoah National Park. It is a clear, perfect October night, with just enough of a light breeze to rustle the trees outside our tent and make us a little jumpy. The trip she is referring to is one I took with my sister two months earlier in which I forget to bring the dog food into the car at night and we woke up around 2 a.m. to a bear chowing down outside our tent. I had never been camping with a dog before – not without my parents at least – and while I was religious about making sure every crumb of human food was secured inside the locked car, I didn't think about the dog food. In retrospect, it's hilarious, if not a little embarrassing that I made such a rookie mistake. But … I was a rookie back then. Building a bond in nature My parents started taking me camping when I was a baby – the exact age neither of them could ever remember. Living on the West Coast, they often went to very high elevations with lots of snow, so a lot of my early camping trips were in a monstrous van they called the "Dinosaur" that was outfitted with a bed and mini kitchen. So I guess my smelly hiker roots go back to living #vanlife from time to time before I knew that wasn't a thing all families did. Despite these early origins, however, at this point in my life, I am new to camping solo. I have always gone with either a parent or a scout troop, and the trip with my sister that summer was my first time as the most experienced person in camp. I did not exactly pass the test, but of course it wasn't going to scare me away. And for my birthday that year, I just wanted a camping trip, and my mother was happy to oblige. And thank goodness she did. When I was home for Thanksgiving break later that fall, she told me she was having a biopsy done. She might have cancer. At the time, my world did not come to a screeching halt. I took the news, knowing she was going to be okay. It wasn't something I had to convince myself; I just felt it. I saw the future, and my mom was in it. Ten years later, her cancer came back. And this time … this time the future was less certain. And this past February, she finally lost the fight. I've thought a lot about how to honor my mother. I took pictures. I wrote a poem. I got out my violin and started practicing, thinking I could play at her memorial service. I wanted to write about her, so I tried writing fiction – that thing writers do where we not-so-cleverly disguise our own pain inside our characters. I knew at some point I would write a blog post about it, but it was just too raw. Then one night I was lying awake, and the camping trip came back to me, playing in my head as if it was last week and not more than a decade ago. Not all of the trip is so clear. I know my mom packed a lot of gear, as she and my dad often did as they aged. I don't remember what we ate for dinner, but I remember we used the charcoal grill and not the campfire to cook. We drank wine, ate chocolate and before bed, I walked to the edge of the loop and stared up at the many stars, wondering at how I felt so much closer to the idea of God on top of a mountain than I ever had in a church. And then we went to bed and giggled about my dog food mishap, hearing bears in every rustle of leaves. Just like friends. And ultimately, my mom was my friend. Being a role model in nature and in life With increasing conversation in the outdoor industry about gender equality – REI's #forceofnature campaign, the 10K Women Trail Project, more and more outdoor badges for Girl Scouts all the way down to the Daisy level – I am lucky to have grown up with the role model that I had. Who took me and my sister outdoors, who never once made me feel like I needed a male partner to experience nature in spite of her own alleged fears about getting out on her own. My mom was not only someone I looked to for hiking and camping advice, but she was a walking encyclopedia for so much of the flora of the southeastern United States. I have never consciously tried to fill that role of being an outdoorswoman for my own children. I guess because my mom never consciously tried to fill it for me. She just did it. So I do it. And one day, I hope, my children will too. I read somewhere that the order of parenting is (or should) be that for infants, you are your child's servant, waiting on their every need. For children, you are their leader. For teenagers, their mentor. And for adults, their friend. I didn't see it while I was growing up, but my mom followed that pattern perfectly, whether she realized she was doing it or not. Things were certainly rocky, and we went through our times when I wondered if we would ever have a close relationship when I was an adult. Much of our relationship was over distance when I was gone for college, and once I moved back home, she was as far away as Canada and the United Kingdom, traveling with my dad for his job. We spoke on the phone and she came into town to help when my children were born. It was in the outdoors that we got to be friends. Camping. Hiking. Or even just relaxing together on the beach. I have a different memory of my mother than she had of herself when it came to viewing her as an outdoorswoman. In addition to my hazy memories of trips in the Dinosaur, she was always outside: gardening, going for walks, eating dinner on the patio, family hikes after church and weeklong camping trips where she and my dad were equals in setting up camp and keeping things running smoothly. When my Girl Scout – and later Boy Scout – troops canoed in the James River Batteau Festival, my mom was a chaperone every year we did it and was out on the water the entire week. I have memories of boating and rafting with her and hearing stories about backpacking and rock climbing with my dad before I was born. She would say those were rare instances – that she was just tagging along – but it ingrained in me a picture of a woman who was at home in the outdoors who set an example that women ARE at home in the outdoors. When my parents were empty-nesters, she resumed her adventures. She always claimed she missed out on a lot because she was afraid to go out without my dad, so while living in Calgary, she wanted to take advantage of living so close to the Canadian Rockies. She joined a women's hiking group, learned how to like the cold and ended up snowshoeing in Banff. And even after my dad died, even as her cancer spread, resulting in surgeries, chemo, radiation, hospital stays, pain, loss of mobility, double vision and incredible physical weakness, she stayed outdoors. One of the last days she had the energy to get out of bed, she spent it walking around our backyard with my daughter, pointing out the first signs that winter was about to break and helping collect firewood for our firepit. And somehow, she always said that she admired my bravery and self-confidence when it came to getting out on hikes and taking my kids into the wild. I come by it honest, is all I could say. Paying it forward to the next generation My mom was selfless, kind and always serving others, but she was also shy and introverted. She was very private and hated to have anyone pay attention to her –  it's probably why she felt so at home in the outdoors, as far away from the attention of other people as she could get. She hid from the spotlight and would have rather spent her time gardening, reading or walking through the trees than be around people on any given day. My husband and I took our kids backpacking for the first time in late April. It was a short trip  – just one night – but it’s one we have looked forward to for awhile. And while my mom never made it into the backcountry with me and my sister while we were kids, her confidence as a mother and her comfort in nature taught me that it was something that I could do. It was a beautiful trip, and the only regret I have about it is I couldn’t call my mom on our way home and tell her how much the kids enjoyed it and how much of my willingness to go I owed to her. Because whether she meant to or not, she left her mark. And she is very, very missed. Do you have a special someone who made an impact on your life and inspired you to get out in nature? We'd love to hear your story, so please share with us in the comments below! Read more: Who inspires you: gaining inspiration and perspective on trail 10K Women Project: Celebrating women on trail 3 Reasons to get on trail with grandparents Stephanie is a photographer, freelance writer and adventure mama to two little explorers. When she is not behind a camera or editing pictures, she is camping, hiking and learning how to backpack with her family and documents her adventures at whimsyandwildernessphoto.com. On the rare occasion you find her at home, she is probably drinking coffee, working in the garden or watching "Lord of the Rings" and dreaming about hiking one day in New Zealand.

Texas is the second largest state in the U.S. with a landscape that varies from the Gulf Coast, plains, mountains and basins. Those from the Lone Star State like to joke that “everything is bigger in Texas,” and with its large land mass, visiting Texas might require a bit of driving. But there are a multitude of activities for families with young kids that you won’t want to miss. In this blog post, Hike it Baby member Jordan Else shares her itinerary for some things to do and places to see in San Antonio, Austin and Dallas. Fun Things to do with Kids from San Antonio to Dallas San Antonio 1. The Alamo Built in 1718 by Spanish settlers, The Alamo was originally named Mission San Antonio de Valero after St. Anthony of Padua to house missionaries. It got its current name, The Alamo, in the early 1800s when Spanish military troops who were stationed at the mission called it “El Alamo” to commemorate their hometown in Mexico. The Alamo played a pivotal role in Texas’ quest for independence as it was the location of the Battle of The Alamo in 1836. With its 300-year history, The Alamo is a gem the entire family will appreciate visiting. Entrance is free and the exhibits were thoughtful. It’s self-directed; however, if you want a guided tour, there’s an extra cost. There are a few vending machines on site and a gift shop. The space is not huge and is partially shaded. Note that photography isn’t allowed inside the Alamo Church or Long Barrack Museum. 2. San Fernando Cathedral light show Founded in 1731, the San Fernando Cathedral is the oldest church building in Texas and is still in use today. It’s located at the heart of the city of San Antonio and is marked by the medallion imbedded in the floor of the Cathedral. For four days of the week - on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - The Cathedral features a 24-minute light show called San Antonio|The Saga in which video art by French artist Xavier De Richemont is projected onto the cathedral depicting the story of San Antonio from its beginning to present day. The 7,000-square-foot projected light show on the façade of the cathedral is a colorful one-of-a-kind experience for the entire family. Admission is free and show times are 9, 9:30 and 10 p.m. 3. Caving at Natural Bridge Caverns The Natural Bridge Caverns were founded by four college students in 1960 and sits below a natural limestone bridge that spans 60 feet. There are several tours to choose from - one of them being a lantern tour - and other activities to add on to customize your visit. The lowest descent is 180 feet and the temperature inside the caves is a constant 70 degrees year-round with 99% humidity, so prepare for that depending on what time of year you visit. After the underground exploration, there are other fun activities for all ages above ground. Small kids can play at the Sky Tykes playground where they go through obstacle courses to learn confidence. And visitors of all ages will have fun challenging themselves to find their way through the 5,000-square-feet outdoor AMAZEn’ Ranch Roundup. Other activities include a zip line, mining for gems and fossils and the gift shop. 4. San Antonio River Walk The San Antonio River Walk, one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, is a world-famous pedestrian street that runs alongside the San Antonio River and is lined with restaurants and shops and connects tourist attractions via a series of bridges, including The Alamo. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the River Walk to unwind after exploring the city’s rich history. With its many shops and restaurants - and the option to take a boat ride down the river for some extra bit of relaxation - visitors can stay until the wee hours of the morning and take advantage of the San Antonio culture. 5. Rainforest Café After a long day of outdoor play, if you’re visiting the River Walk, reward your kiddos with a visit to the Rainforest Cafe. They’ll be intrigued by the sounds of the creatures that live in the rainforest. Take a walk around and try to find all the creatures large and small who call the rainforest home hiding in the trees.   Austin 1. Zilker Metropolitan Park Just west of downtown Austin across the Ladybird Lake is Zilker Metropolitan Park, which spans 350 acres and offers families a variety of activities from hiking, swimming, a nature center, picnicking and playground, among other things. If you want a quick overview of the park before diving in, or if you don’t have time to explore the entire park, just hop on the Zilker Zephyr miniature train and go for a 20- to 25-minute ride around the park. The train leaves every hour and doesn’t accept credit cards, so come prepared with some cash if you plan to ride the train. Also, it’s not covered, so bring a hat or sunscreen to protect against the hot Texas sun. Another attraction at Zilker Zephyr is the Barton Springs Pool. Just steps away from the train, the pool provides a great respite from the summer heat. The pool is a reservoir with running water from the river, so it’s always 68 degrees. There is a minimal fee for the pool and a small cafe if you need to purchase snacks. There’s a shallow end for kids but be careful as it can be slippery so keep water shoes on hand. Read these suggestions on what to bring should you make a visit to the Barton Springs Pool. 2. Mount Bonnell As Austin’s highest point at 775 feet, Mount Bonnell is a popular destination for watching the sunset, having a picnic or appreciating the aerial view across Austin. To reach the peak, you have to climb 102 stairs - your duration depends on how fast or slow you take on your ascend. Pack a picnic and take your time to appreciate the views of Lake Austin, the city of Austin and the surrounding hillsides. Or even more perfect, time your visit to coincide with sunrise or sunset and watch the skies explode with color. 3. Mayfield Park Mayfield Park is a small park with a cottage, beautiful botanical gardens, ponds and walking trails. Visitors can find free-roaming peacocks on the grounds and oftentimes in the trees and even on the rooftop. There are a few hiking trails to choose from on the grounds that start at 0.3 mile and, if combined with other trails, can total close to a mile. Some of the terrain are rocky, so watch your kiddos’ footing. 4. Bat Colony under Congress Bridge Congress Bridge, officially known as Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge, in downtown Austin is home to the world’s largest urban colony of bats that live within the crevices of the bridge. At dusk, hundreds of spectators visit the bridge to watch over a million bats fly out from under the bridge. To avoid congestion, Jordan highly recommends parking south on Congress at the meters and walking north as it was convenient for grabbing dinner after. The lower part of the bridge is the spot to be as you can spread out a blanket if you arrive early enough. There are rare reports of bites on lower legs on the top of the bridge, so be sure to wear long pants if you choose to watch from up there.   Waco Waco Mammoth National Monument One of the National Park Service’s newer national park sites, Waco Mammoth offers an exciting opportunity for visitors to learn about and see remains of Columbian mammoths that roamed the area during the Pleistocene Epoch. Take a guided tour and spend some time at the mammoth dig site. Be sure to bring water and sun protection with you; however, there are no bathrooms or drinks allowed inside so take care of that before you enter.   Dallas Dallas World Aquarium The Dallas World Aquarium is an aquarium, zoo and botanical garden all wrapped into one. What makes it unique is that it houses threatened or extinct animals, as well as features animals from different parts of the world. Before heading to the aquarium, you can visit the aquarium’s endangered list and familiarize yourself with their history and the plans to protect them. And check out the feeding and talk schedule and plan to be present to learn more about the animals that live at the Dallas World Aquarium. Texas is a big state and we've only covered some family-friendly activities. What are some of your favorite activities or suggestions for families while visiting Texas? Please share with us in the comments below. Planning Resources: National Park Service Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide Travel Texas Read more: 10 Fun things to do with kids in Yellowstone National Park 10 Places to visit in Acadia National Park with kids 15 Fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs Itinerary contribution and photos by Jordan Else.

Whether you’re new to hiking with your baby or toddler, or you’re looking for a new trail to explore, the Hike it Baby community is a valuable resource for finding family-friendly hiking trails around the country. In this article, we share three beautiful hikes in Maine to explore with babies and young children. Images of rugged scenery and equally rugged trails are no doubt what come to mind when most people think of hiking in Maine. Rugged scenery, yes, and beautiful too, but a hike doesn't have to be hard to find the beauty. There are plenty of fun family-friendly hikes that you and the kids are sure to enjoy. Here are three very different trails, from mountaintop to seashore, all within amazing Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, and all perfect for families with kids. Cadillac Mountain Summit (Bar Harbor, ME) No trip to Acadia is complete without a trip to the tallest point in the park – Cadillac Mountain. You can hike to the summit on Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, but at 7 miles roundtrip up the 1530-foot mountain, it may not be the best way for those with babies or toddlers. Why not drive up? The peak is easily accessible by car, making it a great option for new mamas or new walkers. Here you'll find incredible views of the park's peaks, bays and islands without any long or steep hikes. A 0.5-mile loop trail circles the summit, allowing you to soak up the views across the park from every angle. Meanwhile, toddlers will love jumping and climbing on the rocks scattered across the mountaintop. Due to Cadillac Mountain's location and height, it is one of the first spots in the United States to see the sunrise every morning. If you're able to get there early enough, you can have the opportunity to be among the first in the country to welcome the new day. (Thanks, kids, for seeing to it we get up early!) You may also avoid the crowds. At just about all other times, the hardest part about Cadillac Mountain is getting through the tourist traffic. That's on foot as well as in your car. If you venture away from the parking lot on the trail, though, it won’t take long to leave the crowds behind. Then you'll discover what makes Cadillac Mountain worth the visit – the spectacular views! Get more information on the trail in the Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide. Tips: There is a National Parks entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. However, the park could be crowded in the summer. Consider leaving your car at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and taking the Island Explorer Bus. There are restrooms not far from the parking lot. Dogs are allowed in most areas of Acadia National Park, including Cadillac Mountain. But please keep them on leashes at all times. Trail review and photo contributed by Bobby and Maura Marko. Jordan Pond Path Trail (Bar Harbor, ME) Jordan Pond Path is an easy 3.5-mile loop around the shores of the 150-foot-deep Jordan Pond, with an elevation gain of 115 feet. Instead of taking the full loop, consider exploring the open area between the south side of the pond and Jordan Pond House. This area leads to different carriage roads, the nature trail, and the west and east side of the full Jordan Pond Path loop. At the pond split, if you take the right and travel along the east side, there’s a compact surface. The left will take you over a boardwalk on a bog that is trickier to navigate. Overall, there is a good amount of various easy hiking options in this area that aren’t too strenuous, so toddlers could start out on this hike. If you go the distance, expect to carry little ones in areas that are close to the pond shoreline. Also, note the boardwalk areas were created to keep people off any ecosystem preservation that is occurring. Be aware of this if you have eager little hikers who like to explore off-trail. The same goes for dogs, so don't forget the leash. For those who have double strollers, there is ample room to navigate this trail. While there are some uphill stretches, it’s totally doable. For more information, read up on the trail in the Family Trail Guide. I loved this adventure because I felt my son really connected with his surroundings in this area. He had a bunch of open space to run around at in front of the Jordan Pond House by a section of the trail, and he loved playing in the dirt and small rocks that made up the paved path of the trail. He was being young, wild and free, and it looked so natural. I definitely felt that his adventurous spirit came out not only during this hike, but during all of our adventures in Acadia National Park! – Anna Fedorowycz Tips: If you drive your own car, park at the Jordan Pond North parking lot or in the smaller Jordan Pond House parking lot. The Jordan Pond House isn’t too far from the start of the different pond trails, so you could get some food before or after a hike. You can also use the restroom or make time for a diaper change. Keep in mind that cell phone service is either poor or non-existent. Trail review and photo contributed by Anna Fedorowycz. Wonderland Trail (Southwest Harbor, ME) Like the two trails above, Wonderland Trail can be found in Acadia National Park. However, this 1.4-mile out-and-back trail is longer than the loop at Cadillac Mountain Summit and easier than Jordan Pond Path. Follow the wide and flat trail just over a half mile through a pine forest to the wild Atlantic coast. Unlike many of the other more popular trails at Acadia National Park, which follow close to cliffs or have other obstacles, toddlers will be safe here. This trail is easy enough that even the newest of walkers can walk most of it on their own. Once at the coastline, the scattered pink granite rock chunks along the shore are perfect for exploring. If you time your hike right for low tide, you and the kiddos can even search for sea life in the tide pools. Learn more about the trail in the Family Trail Guide. Acadia National Park will always hold a very special place in our family’s hearts for several reasons. One of our fondest memories from our week spent exploring the area was our short hike on the Wonderland Trail. What an aptly named hike for this magical little trail that gives visitors the sensation of being in their own world. This was such a great hike for our newly walking toddler to explore, and though the rain drizzled down on us, I have nothing but warm memories from this hike. – Bobby and Maura Marko Tips: Unlike the other trails, there are no toilets or drinking water available on the Wonderland Trail. Also, dogs are not allowed here. If you’re looking to explore more after completing the Wonderland Trail, stop by Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse a little over a mile west of the trailhead. A scenic view of the lighthouse is just a few steps down a staircase from the lighthouse parking lot. Trail review and photo contributed by Bobby and Maura Marko.   MORE RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN Maine offers an abundance of trails for families with young children. For more family hike ideas, see: Hike it Baby calendar (or connect with the local branch) Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Bureau of Parks and Lands Hiking page Hike it Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures with Babies and Toddlers – New Book by Hike it Baby Founder Shanti Hodges If you’re in Maine and need more information or recommendations on trails or would like to join a group hike, the nearest Hike it Baby branches are in Cumberland County and on the Seacoast. READ MORE: 3 Gorgeous Hikes in New York for Young Children 3 Great Trails for Young Kids in Pennsylvania 3 Great Hikes in New Jersey for Young Children What are your favorite hikes in Maine for families with babies, toddlers and young children? Leave a comment below!

  The picture above was taken when our son, Squeaks, was fitted with his pack for the first time. It was also the point I knew that my dreams of sharing my love for the mountains through backpacking with him could be a reality. And how hard could it be, right? I’ve hiked the entire John Muir Trail and much of the cross-country Sierra High Route. My gear list is dialed in. Gordon Ramsey himself would devour my dehydrated sweet potato bark. But like so many other facets of my life which parenthood has challenged, backpacking with a baby was no different. Here are 5 things we wish we knew before we set out on our family backpacking adventures.  (This is part 3 of our Backpacking with Babies series. Be sure you to check out the first part of this series in which we discuss the backpacking basics with a baby on board. And Part 2 talks about gear that's adapted for backpacking with babies.) 1. Practice Planned Flexibility My wife once told me she thinks I enjoy planning for hikes more than the actual walking. I can’t say I completely disagree, and if my knees could speak after 5 miles of ground-pounding downhill, they would side with her. It’s not that I’m out of shape or that I’m allergic to nature, it’s just that I’m a spreadsheet GOD. I mean my spreadsheets have spreadsheets. There is something comforting about having the itinerary dialed in so much that I know the exact mileage to get to the perfect campsite with the softest dirt and most epic vista. It took all of 5 minutes into a 20-mile backpacking trip with our son to realize this type of hypervigilant planning wasn’t going to fly. In that short time, he made it very clear to us (and everyone else in the Sierras that morning) he had no intention of staying in the carrier for one more minute. So we stopped, took a break, and after some repositioning of his harness and coaxing through song, we managed to tame the beast and get back on trail. We begrudgingly walked on, feeling embarrassed and leery of what was to come. Was all of this a big mistake? Are we over our heads? Is it selfish of us to impose this foreign lifestyle on such a little human? These negative thoughts lingered for a few miles, but as we traipsed deeper into the mountains, they washed away to reveal new feelings of rapture toward the land’s scenery we were passing through. Part of this change in thought was attributed to our son’s mindful eye and the way he interacted with nature. As we allowed ourselves to stop to admire the curious ways he went about exploring rock patterns and pine needle textures, time and space slowed, and any sense of urgency and expectation faded. There were more important things happening here. You may still struggle with the egocentric inner voices of the backpacker who “once was” pre-baby. Try your hardest to ignore these urges to push harder, go faster and climb higher – you will probably have a better time! If you do have the time, give yourself the opportunity to fulfill these urges on different, kid-free trips. 2. There Is No Ultralight Version When I go out on my “Adventure Dad” trips (backpacking trips without little people), I meticulously maintain a LighterPack account where I log every ounce of gear down to the last Band-Aid. It’s a fool-proof way of making sure everything is accounted for on a trip. Due to its success, I thought it only made sense to start such a list for our family outings. We were initially doing “ok” on weight until we added the 18 pounds of grubbulous squish that was my son at 10 months; the 3-person tent; the double sleeping pad; and the bear canister with food pouches. As we watched the pounds skyrocket, we gave up any hope that this was going to be a lightweight affair. It was time to embrace our inner “pack mule.” This meant breaking out the big guns – or in our case, mitigating heavier weights with a few helpful strategies: Carrying a bigger pack to manage larger volume and weight -  I usually keep gear in a smaller, lightweight frameless pack. These packs are not meant to be used when the total weight of gear exceeds 30-35 pounds. But backpacking with Squeaks, I was easily pushing 40+ pounds in my backpack with all the gear. I ended up using a 70L pack, which not only had the extra volume but carried the weight well. Using a balanced pack - When carrying heavier loads, making sure your pack is evenly balanced is key. Here are some tips on loading your backpacking by L.L.Bean. Using trekking poles - Trekking poles are always a good idea when backpacking, but they’re especially helpful when carrying heavier weights. They improve balance and reduce the impact on your knees and leg muscles. 3. You May Have to Play the “Napping Game” Squeaks was colicky as an infant and the only thing that would get him to sleep was walking. During the “dark ages,” we walked from sun up to sun down to get him to sleep. We still attribute his love for hiking to our rambler ways of old. Consequently, it did not surprise us that he was a good sleeper on trail. Now it wasn’t always the prettiest looking position, but the kid slept. Well, he slept as long as we were moving … This meant we were often left playing the “Napping Game,” which is a game of sleep time logistics. I’m sure many parents are all too familiar with it. Here are two examples of how this game played out on trail for us: If Squeaks fell asleep at 3 p.m. and we were only .5-mile from our proposed camp, we would either have to walk past our campsite to another site farther down trail or walk in circles around our campsite until he had been down for about an hour. We’ve done both. If Squeaks fell asleep at the start of a 2-mile uphill climb of 1500 feet, there was NO STOPPING. We could not stop to catch our breath, drink water or even talk to the nice couple who looked at us like we were going the wrong way heading farther into the backcountry. If you are incapable of drinking water while walking (like someone’s mama I know) and you have a sleepwalking kid like ours, bring a bladder with a hose so you can drink and walk! 4. Babies Are Not Quiet Many backpackers venture out to embrace the solitude and quiet reprieve that the wilderness offers. We believe it is our duty to respect this need, whether it be on trail or in camp. That said, we are carrying a baby and babies are not quiet! On one particular trip in the Sierras, after 8 grueling miles of walking,  we crawled into our campsite with a perfect spot overlooking a pristine alpine lake. I had just blown up our 2-person pad when I noticed a hammock set up on the other side of a tree just 50 feet away. After a little investigation, I quickly learned that this hammock belonged to a man who was backpacking with his wife. We relocated as best as we could immediately to a less ideal spot, but in the end we were glad we did so. That night, Squeak’s side of our pad deflated and it was this dad’s job to blow it up every hour (we chose this option rather than dunking the pad into the frigid water in the middle of the night to find and repair the leak). Needless to say it turned out to be a very noisy night! If your tent site options are limited and you are worried about your baby keeping others awake, be sure to talk to your neighbors about your “situation,” or even pack out ear plugs to offer to other groups! 5. Embrace Your Inner “Dirtbag” When you’re backpacking, dirt is simply unavoidable. It will fill the cracks in your dry hands and embed itself in your toenails. There will come a point where you will wash your hands clean in a body of water and wipe them dry with your shirt, pants, towel or handkerchief … only to look down and find them just as dirty again. Like your hands, if you try to keep a baby clean in the woods, you will lose! Babies have more cracks and crevasses than glaciers, as I'm sure you discovered this when you were struck by a strange smell coming from your baby and found a "fold" that hadn't been cleaned for some time. We challenge you to embrace your inner “dirtbag!” Unless you plan on packing out pounds of wipes (which you'll have to haul out), forget about the folds for a few days. Forget the face. Forget the feet. And forget the fingers. If you need to hone in on an area, let it be the baby bits. Diaper rashes are not to be messed with on trail! Dehydrate your wipes beforehand! Leave them out in a dry place for 24 hours before your trip to save weight! Reconstitute with water when you need them. Parenthood has thrown many new humbling experiences our way and backpacking with a baby was one of them. But with all the failures and lessons learned in the mountains, there has come a newfound sense of inspiration to change what it means to enjoy the wilderness and share that idea with our son. We would not have had it any other way. Comment below and tell us some of the lessons you’ve learned while backpacking with your little one. Read more: The ultimate beginner's guide to backpacking with babies: The basics The ultimate beginner's guide to backpacking with babies - Part 2: Gear List Backpacking 101: The next adventure Backpacking 102: Taking the kids

April is Month of the Military Child and celebrates all the kids growing up in military families. Many military installations will have events and parties all month long. For those of us living away from a base, things tend to be a little quieter this month, so Hike it Baby is our personal go-to for mini celebrations. We all know that military children deal with deploying parents ... it's the first thing people think of when military kids are discussed. But today I hope to widen your understanding a bit. Here are a few more things that military children deal with that you may not recognize right away. Changing schedules ... like sometimes? Daily. Each night, my kids ask 'will dad be home for dinner?' Because each day was different from the last, and just because the ship was home didn't guarantee dad was. Missed birthdays and holidays. Sadness … heaping amounts of sadness. Deployments. Fear of the deployed parent not returning at all. Elation and uncontrolled excitement when the parent comes home, or even better have leave (vacation). Finding a normal after a homecoming or being apart for months or years. Working through injury or PTSD, as a family. Because the servicemember is not the only one affected. Leaving friends behind every few years. For some? Every year. Moving to a place that doesn't have the activities you like to do. Having to start over and learn new favorite things.Being without all their possessions for possibly months while they wait for a move to be completed. Only to learn that the one box of most precious treasures has been 'lost' in the move. Finding family when family isn't around I say these things not to scare you or make you fearful for military children, but to help you see how much they handle. They are some of the strongest individuals I've ever met. And with three military children myself, I've witnessed that strength every day. Dealing with this crazy life alongside my children, as a military spouse who is often parenting alone, who frequently has to leave friends behind for a move, and who is constantly trying to rebuild our tribe, Hike it Baby has made our life better by making our tribe easier to find. You know the saying: Happy Mom ---> Happy Home. Once I begin to find my tribe – which I'll be honest is frequently hiking-related – my kids tend to find theirs as well by connecting with other kids on the trail. And we're not the only ones who feel this way. Here's what our very own HiB military members are saying: “I found Hike it Baby when I needed it most at our previous duty station. My husband was working super long hours, we had no family nearby, and I was desperately trying to get my son (who was 8 months old at the time) and myself out of the house. I struggled to find a community that felt like the right “fit” until I stumbled upon Hike it Baby. Everyone was so welcoming and non-judgmental! When we PCS’ed a few years later, I was happy to find a nearby Hike it Baby Branch at our new duty station, and it has provided an instant community full of wonderful people with similar interests for both my son and me. I’m not sure what we would have done without it!” ~Becca, Kitsap Peninsula, Washington Branch (Navy) “Hike it Baby was my lifeline at our last duty station! My husband was barely home, I had just had another baby, and there were no friends or family nearby. Hike it Baby not only gave me some place safe to go, but it gave me lifelong friends.” ~Ashley, Litchfield County, Connecticut Branch (Navy) “Hike it baby has let me and my littles explore our new surroundings with friendly people that know the area well. I don’t have to worry about getting lost on a trail!” ~Loren, Kitsap Peninsula, Washington Branch (Navy) “It made it so easy to find friends with similar interests and lifestyles. My entire community here is built from hike it baby!” ~Heather, Colorado Springs, Colorado Branch (Air Force) “HiB gave me something to do, somewhere to go and adults to talk to after PCSing right after having baby #2!” ~Shelly, Snohomish, Washington Branch (Navy) “In a duty station that wasn’t connected to a base... HiB gave me my first few friends and thus insight into a new location. It also got us out and about... no wallowing in despair here!” ~Jenyfer, Eugene, Oregon Branch (Navy) If you're looking for another unique resource for military families, check out a brand new chapter book series. Base Brats follows the Evans siblings as they navigate daily life in a military family. Freshly published to coincide with Month of the Military Child, you can order a copy right to your door at Base Brats, or you can order a signed copy (only available during April for Month of the Military Child) here Base Brats. Read more: How my military family found our "village" through Hike it Baby Military families find support with HiB Hike it Baby and the military Photos by Kayla Klein and Krystal Weir.

In our first part of this series, we discussed the backpacking basics with a baby on board. In Part 2, we will be getting knee-deep in gear. To the devoted backpackers, their gear list is the key to their heart. Simply asking avid outdoorsmen to see such a list is not something you do on the first date. That being said, by this point in our journey, I feel like we’ve gotten to know each other enough that I am ready to show you ours. If you have never backpacked before, fear not! We're recommending that you just go for a single night on your first outing. You can get away with almost anything in that timeframe. Now we’re not telling you to pack a pair of Levis and a Tommy Bahama T-shirt and call it a day, but we're saying that John Muir was able to carry a cast iron stove as he traversed the Great Western Divide at over 10,000 feet, so you don't have to feel "prepared" before heading out on the trails. Keep It Organized If you don’t keep a checklist of all your gear for your trip, you should! Otherwise, there is a very good chance you'll end up unpacking and repacking your backpack the morning of a trip, just to double check that you remembered to pack an extra pacifier or the baby Motrin. For all you Type A planners, lighterpack.com is a great resource when creating a gear list for an upcoming adventure with your little human. With LighterPack, you are able to list and categorize your gear and include its weight and a website link to the item. Now let’s dive into gear! Overnight Backpacking with a Baby Gear List Detailed List Here are the two gear lists we maintain for our family trips on LighterPack. Each section is broken down by category, location of items in our pack, a link to the gear item if possible and its weight. Dad’s gear Mama and Squeaks' gear General List Below is a general list to help you prepare for your trip! You won’t find any brands here so feel free to add your own style! 1. Packs Dad: 70L Pack with waterproof liner Mama/Squeaks: hard-frame carrier 2. Go-Suits Dad: hat, sunglasses, Buff, l/s shirt, pants, underwear, sock liners, socks, trail runners Mama: hat, sunglasses, l/s shirt, pants, underwear, sock liners, socks, trail runners Squeaks: hat, sunglasses, l/s shirt, pants, socks, soft-soled shoes 3. Extra Clothes Dad: stuff sack, extra socks, extra sock liners, extra underwear, base layer top/bottom, insulated top layer, beanie, gloves, rain jacket, camp shoes Mama: stuff sack, extra socks, extra sock liners, extra underwear, base layer top/bottom, insulated top, beanie, gloves, rain jacket, camp shoes Squeaks: stuff sack, extra socks, fleece PJs, fleece bunting, base layer top/bottom, insulated top, beanie, booties, rain suit 4. Sleep/Shelter Tent, Dad’s quilt, Mama/Squeaks’ quilt, Dad’s sleeping pad, Mama/Squeak’s double sleeping pad 5. Cook System Stuff sack, fuel, stove, pot, pot stabilizer, lighter, small kitchen towel, spork x2, baby spoon, cup x2, small bowl 6. Food Bear canister, 8 lbs of food for two days (3 lbs for adults, 2 lbs for Squeaks) 7. Water Stuff sack, filter, adapter, clean/dirty 1L bladders, 3 1L water bottles w/ sport tops, backup treatment, extra cap 8. Toiletries Ziploc bag, toothbrushes, toothpaste, foot cream, eye care, flossers, sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer 9. Electronics Stuff sack, battery bank, smart phone, satcom device, cords, wall adapter, headlamp x2 10. First Aid Ziploc, small quick guide, baby meds (Motrin in small container with syringe, Benadryl for emergencies only, adult meds, like Motrin, Tylenol, Benadryl, DayQuil and NyQuil), Leukotape strips, various Bandaids, small tube of Neosporin, gauze pads, gauze roll, Steristrips, alcohol swabs, tincture of Benzoin, Q Tip, Ace Bandage wrap, bug repellent, bug net x 2, stroller-fitted bug net 11. Emergency Ziploc, dryer lint, storm matches, extra lighter, paracord, extra AAA batteries, Geartie, multi-tool  12. Diaper Kit Dry bag, gallon zip, quart zip, 10 diapers, 30 dehydrated wipes, changing pad, odor-proof bag, gallon zip w/ baking soda for Squeak’s dirties, quart zip w/ baking soda for grown-up dirties. 13. Other Items Squeak’s lovey, 2 pacifiers with leash, book for night time, teething toy, tether to hold teething toy, retractable mirror for hard-frame pack, pack towel 5 Game Changers Below are five of our absolute favorite baby-specific backpacking gear items we would never leave home without! Sunday Afternoons Kids’ Play Hat - We tried multiple hats for Squeaks before we found this one. We love this hat for its full coverage brim with soft veil back which allows him to rest comfortably in his carrier. We love how adjustable it is, both around the head and under the chin. It also comes in many fun designs and colors! Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 MtnGlo - This tent is absolutely worth every penny. It’s very light but durable, easy to set up, and has plenty of room for a family of three. The MtnGlo lights are just bright enough to see what you’re doing in the middle of the night whether it’s finding the door zipper when nature calls or changing a diaper after a blowout (I never wish this upon any of you).  Read more on 4-person backpacking tents to help you decide what options are good for your family. LilleBaby Retractable Mirror - This mirror allows you to check in on your little one while continuing to hike using a retractable cord and a carabiner,which you can fasten to your shoulder strap Lil’ Sidekick Tether - This is a great way to solve your baby’s fascination with gravity. The tether hooks any toy, cup or bottle onto your carrier, no matter the size. Our Lil’ Sidekick’s job was to hold Squeak’s coveted “Drago” lovie that my son is slightly obsessed with and cannot sleep without. Needless to say, this was not a task for the faint of heart. The tether passed with flying colors. Leukotape - This one isn’t baby-specific, but if you haven’t heard of Leukotape, it’s time to jump on the bandwagon. There is a reason this stuff is in every thru hiker’s med kit. It was the reason I remained blister-free on the John Muir Trail and sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. You can buy this miracle tape off of Amazon for just $10. It comes in a gigantic roll you can partition for your hikes by wrapping it around a hiking pole, lighter or placing it on the backing paper of labeling stickers. If you were entertaining the idea of a backpacking trip with your baby in the future, we hope you found this information helpful! Feel free to ask any questions about our gear list or share your thoughts in the comments below.  Read more: The ultimate beginner's guide to backpacking with babies: The basics Backpacking 101: The next adventure Backpacking 102: Taking the kids Photos by Joe Linehan and Laura Castro. ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.

My son and I just got done hiking in the rain. I'm pulling cold, soggy socks off my 2-year-old in the car and trying to explain why he can’t wear his favorite red boots on the way home. They are wet, muddy and cold, but there is no reasoning with a toddler and he just keeps saying, “Boots. Red. Boots. Red.” We're sitting just inside my Subaru after a morning of hiking on part of the Ice Age Trail, trying to de-layer and get warm. The trail was a toddler’s dream mixture of mud, ice and water. The mud is fun to squish boots into and is sort of a means to an end for my little guy since he is mostly interested in getting through the mud and onto the ice! Breaking through any ice left after the winter thaw is really the mission. Most of the time he breaks through to water. Depending on how deep it is, he likes to splash around in it, throw pinecones into it or just announce and emphatically point to it and say, “WATER!” Planning ahead for hiking in the rain This is a tricky time of year to dress a toddler. The ground is still frozen in most places but melting in others, making an odd frozen but gooey mud mutation. The air is chilly, but the sun is warm and it could (and does) rain without any warning. This morning I dressed my son in his usual snowsuit, winter boots, hat and gloves. Once we got on the trail, I was happy he'd be warm; but when it started to drizzle and he discovered all the puddles on the trail, I started to question if he would stay dry. But I felt confident I prepared for both the weather and wet, wintry play. Here are a few tips I've learned during our hikes in the rain. 1. Bring spare clothes If possible, always hike with a spare set of dry clothes. I usually keep these in the diaper bag, but since the diaper also tends to get wet when we hike in the rain, I leave the clothes in the car for our return. 2. Consider a waterproof outer layer Warm is good, but warm and dry is essential this time of year. I've started putting my son in his snowsuit and then dressing him in his rainsuit on top. The rainsuit is lightweight and won’t add too much bulk, but it will keep out the wind and the rain. When putting it on, make sure to cinch down the wrist and ankle straps over boots and mittens to keep any leaks out. As another mom noted, a one-piece rainsuit should be emphasized here because “... pants and jackets don’t help when the water is coming up from a puddle.” 3. Don't forget little fingers and toes Waterproof gloves and boots are paramount. They are the first areas of contact and most likely to get soaked. I’ve found that if I don’t have the waterproof gloves with me, doubling up on them is almost just as good. By the time the first layer is soaked through, the rest of him is cold and he's ready to go home anyway. It’s sort of a makeshift hourglass. 4. Don’t forget about yourself Keeping my son warm and dry is my first priority, but if I’m cold and wet, this is my preoccupation. I’m less focused on the little guy, making it easier for him to get into trouble. I also get grouchy and I don’t have as much fun – and I also love playing in the mud and ice just as much as he does! To this end I've started packing back-up shoes and socks for myself. And another thing I’ve learned is no matter how long or short the distance, in cold, wet weather, we all burn more energy trying to stay warm and dry. So I make sure to pack extra food and water to keep my and the little ones' tiny furnaces burning along with trail snacks and car snacks for the drive, because sometimes this is the only time I have to eat! Happy spring hiking, and if you have any tips to add to this list, leave them in the comments below. We'd love to hear them! Read more: 5 Gear essentials for hiking in the rain with kids Kids' perspectives: 5 Things kids like about hiking in the rain and cold What to wear: Hiking in the rain and winter Raincoats review: Staying dry on the trails Photos by Michelle Pearl Gee and Arika Bauer.  

As children, our siblings had a role in helping mold us into who we are today. They made a big impact on our daily experiences and how we developed emotionally, mentally and socially. As we grew, they helped shape our worldview and how we reacted to our environment. And now as parents, we watch our own children repeat that beautiful pattern with each other. Not only in the home have I watched my children teach and grow from and with each other, but I’ve also seen them practice it on the trail. When we hike, their movements naturally revolve around each other – teaching and learning as they go; giving some and taking some selflessly; and becoming more confident and stronger in every way as they grow individually, as partners and as a team. I believe part of the reason is their age differences and that they themselves recognize that where the other is weak or in need, their strength and experience can help make the other person stronger. Siblings help instill values and character My little hiking crew consists of my daughter, who is 11, and two sons, 5 and 2. While some might find it challenging to hike with children of varying ages, it's an advantage during our adventures. Each kid brings a unique experience to the journey, and adjustments are constant occurrences we've grown accustomed to. Plus, I enjoy watching them interact and grow together on the trails. I always joke that the baby will be the smartest of us because he has four teachers to learn from – the two best teachers being his older sister and brother. Much like the lessons he’s learned from them in the home, such as sliding down the stairs really fast on his belly, creating with Legos and emptying the dish washer (the list goes on), he’s also learned so many things on the trails, such as balancing on fallen logs, jumping off boulders, skipping rocks, brushing the owies off and getting back on his feet after a fall, and learning to make nature his playground. Similarly, each older child is also learning to move beyond his or her own needs to accommodate for the younger one’s needs. They acquire a sense of responsibility toward a younger sibling and step up to be a teacher and a leader. There's little urging from me to behave a certain way ... they just know to take care of and watch out for each other when we hike. They play hard, and some days they fight hard, but they are always each other's guardian angel on the trails. Whether at home, in the woods or on a mountainside, I’ve watched my kids learn important skills from each other that help build character and create values at a young age. Skills each age group teaches the other Some things older kids learn through the younger kids are: Leadership – Without realizing it, older siblings suddenly take on a leadership role. They become influencers – teachers, playmates and role models – and younger siblings look up to them for guidance. Parents can help older kids hone these skills by allowing them to make decisions on the trails or giving them more freedom to explore in their own way and letting the younger one follow along. Sympathy and empathy – Older kids recognize when their younger siblings are struggling; their instincts kick in and they want to save the day. They learn to be supportive of each other and encouraging when things get rough. My daughter always seems to know when the boys are struggling during a hike and volunteers to carry their packs or says the right words to encourage them. Sometimes it’s just a matter of sitting down with her brothers for a few minutes to make them laugh until they feel reenergized. Flexibility and adapting to change – Having young children means predictability goes out the window and things can change at any time. A planned epic adventure can turn into a dud really quick and send you right back to the car. Older children have to learn to adapt and switch gears, accepting that their expectations of family adventures may change without any notice. Parents can help them understand that it’s OK to be disappointed but change is inevitable with younger siblings. Some things younger kids learn through the older kids are: Motor development – Younger kids pretty much will do anything their older siblings do without question, so without knowing, they quickly pick up gross motor skills, such as crawling, jumping, balancing and running, and fine motor skills like digging up dirt, grasping leaves, and picking up sticks. All just from watching and doing what their older siblings do! Sensory skills – This is naturally an easy one, and one that any age can benefit from. Older siblings can help enhance younger siblings’ sensory skills on the trails by playing games to test what they hear, see, smell and feel. Parents can encourage this by letting the kiddos explore and get wet and dirty. (Just have extra clothes handy in the car for later in case.) Courage and confidence – When kids start to doubt their ability, they watch their parents’ reaction before proceeding. If there's a look of fear, kids will feel afraid too. But when they follow in big brother’s or sister's footsteps (literally) on rocks to cross a creek or climb a tree or rock wall, they learn to be fearless and face the challenge without hesitation. Don't fear the age gap Hiking with kids of varying ages doesn't have to be scary. Sometimes I think it's easier because they entertain and take care of each other – I'm just there to kiss skinned knees and palms and carry food and water. It's a great opportunity for all ages to learn from each other and develop skills while creating memories at the same time. National Siblings Day is April 10, a day set aside to recognize sibling relationships. What better time than now to take the kids into the outdoors and celebrate each other. Photos by Vong Hamilton. Read more: Hiking with older kids: How to continue the adventures 10 Tips for hiking with toddler twins What are some of your best childhood memories with your siblings while spending time in nature? We'd love to hear about it in the comments below.

Daylight Saving and spring are officially here, and in most places, the snow is quickly being replaced with spring showers (even though we’re still digging out of the snow in Wisconsin!). With the promise of longer daylight, the days are filled with more possibility. “Where are you? Hello? Come out, come out wherever you are!” I spend most mornings pacing my living room and kitchen repeating these words as I mock-look for my 2-year-old son. When I do find him, he jumps from his hiding spot and yells, “Hide!” This doesn’t mean I should hide; this is just an announcement that he is hiding. Rainy-day activities … outside The only thing my son loves more than hiding is looking for hidden treasures like stuffed animals, Q-tips, balls and especially our pet cat (although, the feeling is not mutual!). So with spring here, I thought: Why not take this party outside with a scavenger hunt? It’s the perfect activity for the outdoors! Toddlers are so curious, it's easy to put together a great list of items to search for, such as clouds, birds, green leaves, bugs, sticks and flowers. Scavenger hunts are also easy to adapt for older kids by adding variations like how many clouds there are in the sky, what kind of birds do we spot in trees, or how many colors of different bugs and flowers can we find. The weather can be unpredictable in spring, but don’t let that scare you. One of the first tell-tale signs of spring is puddles and mud - which are great for jumping in! And with a great pair of rain boots or rain jacket from Joules, there’s no limit to the fun both kiddos and adults can have. With the right rain gear, you can explore mud and rain together. Don’t forget to make a mud pie, a signature spring cuisine and, of course, do some mud painting! Puddle jumping is an especially big hit with toddlers because it opens a whole new door of exploration. Watch how the water changes from flat to rippled, or name the things you see in the reflection. Hike it Baby 30 Challenge If you need extra motivation to get out of the house, sign up for the Hike it Baby 30 Challenge (HiB30) and spend 30 minutes outside 3 times a week, or hike 30 miles in 30 days. And to further encourage more spring fun and take the challenge up a notch, Hike it Baby has partnered with Joules for the new HiB30 Take it Outside Challenge, which offers a great spring scavenger hunt bucket list to help get families out of the house and into the outdoors. You could even make a game of the scavenger hunt by searching for a certain amount of items on the list, like how many puddles can you jump in? Count how many different colored birds can you find? How many different colored flowers can you find? And really, the sky's the limit (pun intended!). Also, remember the Leave No Trace principles to preserve nature; instead, opt for photos and add a bit of fun for the kiddos by letting them take pictures of the items they find. We would love to hear what’s on your scavenger hunt list. Share with us in the comments below … and feel free to share those mud pie recipes. Here’s to spring! Read more: Celebrating the changing seasons: the spring equinox Spring in the garden - Activity ideas for kids Spring-themed hike ideas Photos by Stephanie Jacobson and Michelle Pearl Gee. Feature photo by Kim Ives. This post is sponsored by Joules.

Whether you’re new to hiking with your baby or toddler, or you’re looking for a new trail to explore, the Hike it Baby community is a valuable resource for finding family hiking trails around the country. In this article, we share three kid-friendly hikes in Texas to explore with babies and young children. Hiking with young children (under 5 years old) is different from hiking with school-age children. These three hikes in Texas offer families of young children beautiful trails to explore while considering the unique ways young children hike, wander and doddle. While there are hundreds of trails to explore in Texas, our local Hike it Baby branches recommend these three hikes that are close to metro areas and beautiful to explore with young children. Caprock Canyons Upper Trail (Caprock State Park, Quitaque, TX) Throughout the park, there are around 25 miles of trails to explore. This area hosts free-roaming plains bison, which is always exciting for kids to see. Expect to see mesquite, cacti and junipers covering the landscape and also tall grass and cottonwoods. Look and you might find raccoon, white tailed deer, roadrunner, foxes and porcupine hiding in the grass. The Upper Canyon Trail is a bit long and there are some challenging points where you will want to carry your toddler, but you can also really enjoy a section of this trail and just do an out and back, turning around when you feel you’ve had enough.The trail starts low in the canyon and you can really enjoy about a mile of mellow terrain through deep red earth before you start to climb. The climb isn’t steep, but it’s steady, so bring lots of water, snacks and consider hiking poles - especially if you’re carrying. We loved this state park! The wildlife is what makes it extra special for the kids. There are bison throughout the park that free roam and quite often end up close to where you are. There are also a lot of groundhogs that are very visible and fun to watch. The views of the canyon as you drive into the park are beautiful, especially at sunset. The Little Red River camping area creek was by far the kids’ favorite part. They spent hours running up and down the creek as it was only about ankle deep and a sand-based surface. They dug holes, splashed, and climbed on rocks. It was safe for the kids and made watching them very relaxing, but be prepared for all of their clothes to be stained red from the sand and dirt. —Jennifer Campbell TIPS: Park in the Little Red River Camping area. There’s an excellent unmarked toddler trail that starts at the end of the parking lot. You’ll walk right next to a campsite picnic table and see the trail. Make a weekend out of this and stay at the campground. There are easy-access trails next to the campground, and kids can play in the creek for hours. Another kid-friendly point of interest is the Eagle Point trail to the Natural Bridge. Your kids will enjoy rock scrambling to get under the bridge like a cave. The sun is hot here, so by mid-day, plan on being back at camp and play in the water. Your best bet for a visit is spring because it’s cool at night and not too hot in the day. Summit Trail (Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Fredericksburg, TX) From afar, Enchanted Rock is a giant pink granite rock that protrudes out of the landscape as if from nowhere. This 425 feet of rock spans 62 miles below the surface of the earth, so you are just seeing the tip of the mountain.  Arrowheads dating back over 10,000 years ago have been found on the property and the local tribes of Tonkawa, Apache and Comanche Indians used the rock and surrounding areas for tribal traditions. What you’ll love about this short summit is that while it’s equivalent to hiking 40 floors of a building, you can see a different view of the surrounding area. As you travel up, you’ll notice different parts of the rock formation and how the landscape changes to pink. There are easy places to rest as you climb small rocks to sit on and have a picnic. You’ll see the usual animals found in central Texas like rock and fox squirrels, as well as armadillos, rabbits and other small animals, and you’ll frequently see white-tailed deer grazing about. Look for lizards and vultures on and above the summit year-round. Note the trail, cave and rock conditions are inherently hazardous depending on the conditions, so hikers may encounter slippery surfaces, steep inclines, vertical drops and other hazardous conditions if weather comes in, so make sure you are aware of the latest forecast. The view from the top of Enchanted Rock's Summit Trails offers a 360 view of the beautiful Texas hill country. The rock attributed "enchantment" is derived from the thousands of years of human inhabitants. I love how rewarding it is to climb this trail, and it was amazing to us that our then 20-month-old daughter was able to climb it. There is never a point where the incline is too steep; it’s the perfect challenge for little ones as long as parents are closely spotting or holding their hands. —Lauren Yeldell TIPS: Make sure you have plenty of water and snacks when you scale the dome or surrounding outcroppings. Wearing comfortable hiking shoes is also encouraged; this is not the place for flip flops or regular walking shoes. Due to exposure of the area and few trees, try to avoid the hottest or coldest days of the year. October and November are beautiful months to visit. And definitely don't go when it's raining or if there's a high chance of rain. Monahans Sandhills State Park (Monahans, TX) With 4,000 acres of land, Monahans Sandhills State Park is a fun hidden gem in Texas that people might not think to visit for hiking; however, with little ones, this is a perfect landscape to play in because it’s a giant sandbox. This is not your typical hike, but more of an adventure. Because there are no official trails here, you could hike around and explore the dunes and base your distance on what your little hikers can do. The sand can be challenging, so this hike requires carriers for non-walkers or early walkers. Children can walk up the dunes but might need a hand here and there to get around. Remember to bring sand toys (digging toys, buckets, sleds), but you can also rent sleds and other toys at the park headquarters if you forget. Kids will love experimenting with the sleds and seeing how high up on some of the dunes they can get. In the summer, you might catch a lightning storm in the distance, which, with very little pollution to interfere with the light from the lightning, you’ll be able to see well. What you will love about this spot is the great views from the tops of the dunes. My younger child loved just sitting and playing in the sand. I was able to go up and down the dune with my other child while being able to still watch my younger child who was just playing in the sand. We figured out the best way to sled down, which seemed to be in more compact sand where we really smoothed it out by going down the same path over and over. We had tons of fun. —Jennifer Campbell TIPS: If you visit in the summer and are coming from a distance, you can stay at hotels in Odessa or Midland because it can get really hot in this part of Texas in July and August. If you visit in spring, fall or summer, this hike is doable before the heat of the day. In winter, it would be best done in the middle of the day. MORE RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN Texas offers an abundance of trails for families with young children. For more family hike ideas, see: Hike it Baby calendar (or connect with local branches) Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide Texas state parks Hike it Baby: 100 Awesome Outdoor Adventures with Babies and Toddlers – New Book by Hike it Baby Founder Shanti Hodges READ MORE 3 Great hikes for families with young children in Alabama 3 Amazing Tennessee trails for families with young children 3 Unforgettable hikes in Arkansas for families with kids What are your favorite hikes in Texas for families with babies, toddlers and young children? Leave a comment below!

  Walking deep into the mountains, along rivers to their origins in high alpine meadows where the land meets the sky, I look back and think about how backpacking has made a lasting impression on my life. Since the first time I stepped into the granite playgrounds of Yosemite 15 years ago, I promised my future self that I would share these “yahoo” moments with my kids from the moment they were ready. Well, it turns out that moment for my son came the first time we lowered him into a pack at 7 months old. He looked up at me and grinned with his two teeth, and I knew that excited look on his face. It was the same face my wife tells me I get when I’m lacing up the morning of a trip. It was clear then and there that Squeaks, now 18 months, was a “ramblin' man” just like his dad. After several months of strategic planning sessions, gear adjustments and countless “shakedown” hikes (a practice hike to check gear and routine), my wife and I felt we were ready.  We ventured out on our first of several overnight trips into the High Sierras that summer, but this time, there was a baby on our back. Backpacking with babies: a 3-part series This is the first of a three-part series on information you may find helpful when backpacking with babies. In this first installment, we will be going over all the basics you need to know. In our second piece, we will go over a comprehensive gear list for an overnight trip with your baby, including 5 game-changing items you shouldn’t leave home without. Finally, we'll wrap up our series with a list of "5 Things We Wish We Had Knew Before Our First Trip." Determining the appropriate age I'm often asked, “At what age is my baby ready for backpacking?” The answer is really family-specific. These were our family's contributing factors: We felt uncomfortable backpacking with Squeaks as a newborn. He still seemed too fragile and we were new parents trying to figure it all out. My wife had a very long labor and did not feel ready to haul large loads in the pack until our son was 6 months old. There is a weather window in the Sierras where we do the majority of our backpacking. We wanted to wait for the “thaw” to end. This is when the snow melts and rivers swell, making water crossings dangerous. Considering these factors together, we decided to go on our first shakedown hike in the early summer when he was 9 months old. Going the distance If you're just getting started, I recommend going out for a single night as a trial. Here are some questions you can ask yourself when deciding on the distance of a hike, both miles in a day and overall: How would I rate my hiking fitness level? Is the hike strenuous with lots of elevation change? How well does my baby sleep when carried What’s my baby’s awake time threshold? Most of these questions can be answered in a few shakedown hikes. We ended up hiking around 8 miles per day with a 10-month-old at 8,000 feet. Choosing a carrier Most backpacking families will choose either a hard-frame carrier and have a partner carry most of the gear or a combination of a soft-structured carrier and backpack with one on the front and the other on the back. Hard-frame carriers are generally sturdy and supportive, breathable for both child/adult, adjustable in height, chock-full of extra features and incorporate a wide base which makes loading/unloading to and from the ground a breeze. The downsides of a hard-frame carrier are that they are heavy, require full neck/head control for use, typically take some getting used when it comes to napping on trail, and can be difficult to load children in when wearing bulky layers, especially in winter months. The advantages of a soft-structured carrier are that they can be used prior to baby gaining head and neck control, but make sure you use the proper gear to help prop baby's head per the manufacturer's requirements. They promote more natural sleeping positions, provide warmth for babies on cold days and allow you to monitor your baby easily. However, they may increase strain on your shoulders and back and lead to chafing from the carrier straps rubbing against the straps of your backpack. In general, they allow less room for airflow and obstruct your view of your feet when walking, which can be crucial on more technical terrain. Partnering Up Generally we recommend adventuring with a partner so you can share the load. Divvying up gear allows for weight distribution to help with trail endurance and increases flexibility as it relates to days on trail (more carrying capacity →  more food →  more days). For our family, using a hard-frame carrier was the best option. Mama carried Squeaks in the carrier, his clothes, that day’s food and a few other bits and bobs. I carried everything else but the kitchen sink in big 70L pack, including food packed in a bear canister (we are often in black bear country), water, tent, sleeping bags and pads, cooking kit, clothes, emergency kit, a first aid kit, electronics and a few other loose items. The pack weights came in around 30/45 lbs respectively for a 3-day trip. If sharing the load is not an option for you, have no fear! Carrying both baby and gear on your own can and has been done, just ask this awesome HiB mom! Preparing for naps and a good night's sleep Our son only sleeps when he is moving. This is still true today! Both in the car and while carried, Squeaks wakes up when the motion stops. Every time. On the trail, it meant that once he fell asleep, we couldn't stop moving, no matter the number of uphill switchbacks we were facing or stopping to answer questions from other hikers. When we first starting hiking with the hard-frame carrier, our son’s naps seemed short. He would take 30-minute cat naps and wake up with an unusually short fuse.  After some tinkering and help from fellow backpackers and his loving G-Ma, we were able to make Squeaks a lightweight, waterproof pillow and a sun shade for the front of the pack to block out the visual stimuli (and get the sun out of his face!). We think these two modifications helped improve his trail sleep. When it came to sleeping at night in the tent, we did whatever it took to keep him quiet. I’d like to tell you that our nights went off without a hitch, but that would be far from the truth. Mama and Squeaks slept on a double pad and I slept on a single. We found it useful for my son and wife to sleep level with each other so it was easy to nurse if needed during the night. For sleeping bags, we used two wide down quilts with my wife and son sharing one. He slept in between us and toward the top of the pad, so the quilt only laid across his legs. Choosing the right clothing When it came to dress our little man, we focused on layering, sun protection and clothing that is quick-drying and durable. 1. Layering - Especially when it's cold out, layering is key. If your baby is in a hard-frame carrier, remember they are not warming up through exercise like you. Here's an article on layering in the cold weather to help you decide what and how much to pack. 2. Sun protection - Despite how counter-intuitive it feels, we recommend covering up with UV protective clothing as the primary defense against the sun. This becomes even more important when you are hiking in exposed, treeless areas or at higher altitudes where there is less atmosphere to block the sun’s light. In addition to UV-protective clothing, there are other ways to help you block the sun's harmful rays, such as applying sunblock and wearing hats. 3. Quick-drying and durable- At 10 months, our son was a crawling tumbleweed of death, collecting everything in his path. We needed pants that were quick-drying and durable, so we bought pants that had some synthetic material with interwoven nylon. Using diapers on the trail Disposables or cloth? It’s the age-long debate that all backpacking families encounter. While both options have their arguments for and against, our family decided on using disposables and here’s why: We didn’t want to do more than we had to. Once we unleashed the beast from his pack, Squeaks at this age was a full-time job. After hiking 8-10 miles a day, watching him was exhausting! There were also 142 other chores to complete once we stopped to break camp, and we simply didn’t want to add washing poopy diapers to the list. Whichever you decide to use, remember that what you pack in you must pack out. These Leave No Trace rules also apply to diapers, too! Here are a few additional details when it came to diaper duty on the trail in our experience: We wrote down the number of diapers we used at home over three days and took the average as a gauge of how many diapers to bring. We ended up packing out four daytime and 1 nighttime diaper per day. When it came time for a change, we used a small, water-resistant pad to set Squeaks down on. When we were done changing him, we scooped out the dirties from a soiled diaper and buried them in a 6"-8” cathole, 200’ away from a water source, then placed the used diaper in a large odor-free bag. If we were in camp or on a break, we laid out wet diapers so the sun would dry them out a bit before we put it into the odor-free bag.. We dehydrated wipes before our trip and reconstituted them when needed with filtered water. We had a small travel size tube of diaper cream and hand sanitizer in the same bag as the dehydrated wipes. Planning for food Our family practices a Paleo diet which makes things a little harder when it comes to food. Aside from breast milk on trail, at 10 months, pouches were our best friend. They are not necessarily the lightest option but they are shelf-stable, quick and easy. Our son also enjoyed snacking on dissolvable finger foods and baby puffs when sitting on a break or at camp. Only when he was older did we give these foods in the pack when we felt like he could eat safely and the terrain didn’t jostle him around.  If your baby is not nursing, powdered formula is always an option for backpacking. We packed out something extra tasty for the first day since we didn’t have to worry about it spoiling or fitting into our bear canister. And we always try to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables. Other options for babies are baby oatmeal, rice cereal, dehydrated baby food and other dissolvable snacks. If you practice baby-led weaning at home, consider early food options when planning your own meals so your baby can eat them too. Just remember, eat before changing your baby into their sleep clothes. Leaving food scents on clothes may lead to night-time visitors! Stow any food, food-stained clothing or hygiene products with scents safely in a provided food locker, hung off a tree/pole or placed in a bear canister. Do not leave food or trash in your tent or unattended in your camp. Considering options for drinking water Treating water while backpacking is a necessary precaution before taking that tempting sip in an ice cold stream, even if you are above the treeline. After all, even marmots poop! There are generally two types of treatments: purification and filtration. If you are curious about the different types of water treatment, this HiB article dives deeper into the subject. For our family, we devised a gravity system using a filtration device to treat water which served us well both in camp and on trail. A gravity system is where you hang a “dirty bag” with unfiltered water above a “clean bag” and connect the two with a filter. This system allowed us to “set it and forget it.” To balance weight, I carried all of the water on our trips in 1L Smart Water bottles with sport tops that both my wife and I could access anytime. Our son also drank from the sport top water bottles with some practice. However, we will probably change our filter setup and use a bladder with drinking hose for the parent carrying Squeaks next go-around simply because it was hard to drink while walking. Now that you know some of the basics of backpacking with a baby, check back for our next installment which will focus specifically on the gear we used. Do you have more questions about the basics of backpacking with babies? Please let us know in the comments below. Read more: Hard-framed carrier: how to improve the quality of your hike How to carry supplies when hiking with a soft-structured carrier How to layer when babywearing in the cold Photos by Joe Linehan and Laura Castro.   ABOUT OUTGROWN OutGrown is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to create a world where everyone can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of spending time outside. We are focused on creating opportunities and removing barriers to access so families with babies and young children can take their first steps outside. We believe all families have the right to connect with nature, benefit from spending time outdoors and be inspired to a lifelong love of nature. Since its grassroots inception in 2013, OutGrown is a growing community of 280,000 families and over 300 volunteer Branch Ambassadors. More information on all of our programs can be found at WeAreOutGrown.org    EDITORS NOTE: We hope you enjoyed reading this article from OutGrown. We’re working hard to provide our community with content and resources that inform, inspire, and entertain you. But content is not free. It’s built on the hard work and dedication of writers, editors, and volunteers. We make an investment in developing premium content to make it easier for families with young children to connect with nature and each other. We do not ask this lightly, but if you can, please make a contribution and help us extend our reach.