Living in Colorado Springs provides easy access to hundreds of breathtaking hiking trails with challenge levels ranging from beginner to expert. It was one of the main things that drew me here from the east coast where I had spent most of my life. When I found out I was pregnant, I was so excited to have a new hiking buddy. Hiking is a great way to stay active and get the whole family involved.
Although I’m not hiking 13ers and 14ers with my daughter yet, I am proud to say that we have been able to get out and enjoy the great trails on a regular basis. My daughter is a much happier person when she spends time outside, so we make it a priority.
Getting Prepared: Hiking Gear
The most significant investment I made was in a child carrier. I had several people recommend the Osprey Poco LT as I am a small-to-average-sized woman. My normal hiking pack is by Osprey, so I trust their quality. I purchased mine new from REI because I am a Co-op member and get 10% of my purchases back, but I frequently see them available through the Facebook Marketplace, if you are looking for a deal. Purchasing from REI also allowed me to get the pack professionally fitted to my frame, making a huge difference in my comfort level. This particular pack has a good amount of storage, room for a water bladder, and a built-in sunshade for baby which are all necessities for me.
One important thing to note about this type of hiking pack is that it is not recommended to use until your baby can sit up on their own. Before my daughter unlocked that skill, we stuck to shorter walks and used our Infantino 4-1 Convertible Carrier. I did not find this comfortable for either of us for long amounts of time, especially in the summer because it was hot.
What’s in my hiking pack
Although the Osprey Poco LT comes in at just 5lbs, when you add in a small child, and all the things you need at your disposal at any time, the weight adds up. I try to be as efficient as possible with what I carry with us and am constantly trying to weed out unnecessary weight. Right now, this is what is in my hiking pack:
- 2 diapers
- Small pack of wipes
- Doggy poo bags to pack out dirty diapers
- Water bottle for baby, once over a year old
- Snacks
- Sun hat with wide brim
- Sunscreen
How to dress a baby for hiking
Layers! Most Coloradans know the weather can change quickly here, so the rule of layers goes for hiking with a baby, as well. Babies can overheat quickly and can’t tell you what the problem is, so it’s important to be prepared for all scenarios. There are many detailed resources on the web for tips on dressing your baby for different seasons that I recommend looking up but here are my key take-aways:
- Always bring a weather-appropriate hat and mittens
- Wool is a perfect all-year-long fabric
- Sun shirts or a long-sleeve swim shirt help protect baby’s sensitive skin
- Monitor your baby’s temperature often while on the trail by feeling the back of their neck and their hands and feet
My biggest recommendation when it comes to hiking with a baby is don’t set any expectations or expect to hit personal records right from the beginning. You should be proud of yourself for just getting out. Everyone has off days, and not every hike with your baby is going to be perfect.
Baby Friendly Hikes in Colorado Springs
Once you are dressed and have your bag packed, it’s time to pick a trail! Here are several of the local Colorado Springs trails you can find us frequenting:
Fox Run Regional Park – https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/colorado/fox-run-loop-trail
- Mostly shaded with easy trailhead parking
- There is a playground a little more than halfway in
Palmer Park– https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/templeton-trail
- Not much shade so lather up with sunscreen
- Some rocky areas so proper hiking shoes are recommended for good grip
Garden of the Gods – https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/colorado/siamese-twins-loop-trail
- Short out and back trail with no shade
- Parking can be difficult during the summer
North Cheyenne Canon Park – https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/lower-columbine-trail
- Good shade and plenty of trailhead parking
- Flat hike with no elevation gain but gorgeous views
We hope to see you on the trails! Happy hiking and stay safe!
