Mountain Adventure: Baby Backpacking

Calling all outdoor-loving parents in the millennial generation!

Our next meetup group adventure is officially "Baby Backpacking." It's exactly what it sounds like: a friendly, supportive group hike where we gear up and carry our toddlers on our backs to explore beautiful trails together.

Whether you have babies in specialized hiking carriers or older kids ready to trek on their own, this is the perfect opportunity to combine nature, fitness, and family fun. Kids 5 and under must have a carrier.

What to Expect:

• Scenic Trail: We will hike a 3.7 mile, moderate trail (a little steep in the beginning) with rewarding views of bear creek, beautiful forests, and the mountains, chosen for its 3 decent sized parking lots, bathrooms at the trailhead, good shade while hiking, and being dog friendly.

Here's a recent review from Google:

"Great trails that are anywhere from 2, 3, 6, or longer miles. Excellent shade and sunshine. Restrooms are at the trailhead. Bear Creek flows right through by the trailhead and that's all the water that's running in late October. Dogs are welcome and my Cocker Spaniel loved it. There are trails that connect where bicycles are allowed."

• Supportive Pace: We’ll go at a group pace, allowing for snack breaks, diaper changes, and toddler exploration.
• Picnic half way: We'll stop for about half an hour half way through to give everyone a chance to eat and relax.
• Inclusive Fun: Perfect for families with both carrier-bound toddlers and older children who can hike independently (a pre-teen or older child walking is welcome!)

What to Bring:

• The Backpack Carrier! This is the essential item, required for kids under 6 years old. Make sure you have a sturdy, well-fitting toddler or baby hiking carrier designed for longer distances. (Not just a fabric wrap, unless it's a very short, easy section).
• Appropriate Gear: Durable hiking shoes for adults and walking children, sunscreen, hats, and layered clothing.
• Hydration: Plenty of water for everyone, including a spill-proof bottle for your carrier companion.
• Snacks: High-energy snacks for hikers of all ages (don't forget some that the little ones enjoy!).
• Comfort Items: A pacifier, a favorite small toy, or a comfort blanket for the carrier-bound child.
• First-Aid: Basic supplies (blister care, wipes, anti-itch cream).
• Older Child’s Pack: If your older child is walking, give them a small daypack with their own water and a small snack to foster their independence.

Logistics & RSVP:

• Meeting at: O'Fallon Park - 25663 Lines Ln, Kittredge, CO 80457
• Meeting time: 8am to ensure everyone gets parking, and we start the hike at 8:30am sharp.
• Trail Details: The Upper Loop
• RSVP Deadline: Please RSVP by Friday night so we know to expect you.

Who Should Come?

• This event is for newer parents with babies and toddlers who are ready to be carried in specialized hiking carriers.
• Families with older, independent children are also warmly welcomed! This event is a great way to engage children of different ages.
• Note: While we encourage everyone to come, please remember you will be carrying the extra weight of your child, so assess your fitness level. This is a moderate trail, and while it is not especially difficult, there will be some steep areas and a reasonable level of fitness will be needed.

Join us and create some amazing mountain memories! We can't wait to see your "Baby Backpacker" smiles on the trail!