Hiking with Your Baby Is Easy

Imagine:

You're deep in the forest on a quiet spring day...the birds are singing, the trees are providing you with shade and the occasional breeze, and the terrain you're walking on is smooth, but not too easy so you feel like you're accomplishing something by hiking. The best part? Your baby is strapped to you, getting his or her first taste of nature.

Hiking with your baby is easier than you think – with the use of a front or back carrier you can go virtually anywhere that you feel comfortable. You can find newborn, infant, and toddler carriers anywhere; if you're looking for a deal, try Craigslist or Ebay first. Chain stores like Target and Wallmart carry a variety of slings and carriers as well, and your local hiking store will carry something that's durable. Any carrier is going to be easy for you to manage, and will enable you to head up that mountain on a sunny day, allowing you and your child to get fresh air.

Here are two important tips to remember when hiking with a child:

1) Keep in mind their age. Any infant under two months shouldn't be at the top of a mountain with you regardless of weather conditions, but after three or four months you should feel more confident in the length you travel. If you're a new mother, don't stress yourself by trying to hike the ten mile trail you could do pre-pregnancy, and instead opt for a simple, gentle walk with baby.

2) Pack lightly. If you're breast feeding, you won't need much. Toddlers who are hiking with you will need snacks and plenty of water to drink, so make sure you plan accordingly! Bring sun screen or bug spray that's kid friendly during the spring and summer months.

Remember that this is for pleasure, and not gruelling exercise. You are introducing your child to nature and there's no price on that so take it easy, and enjoy yourself.