Our big trip this year was two weeks on the road in Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The whole two weeks centered on hiking into the desert almost every day.
Known for their sweeping desert landscapes, unique rock formations, and ancient ruins, these vast and remote areas are a paradise for hikers. We set out with one primary goal – to spend each day exploring a new trail, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and rich history of these protected lands. This trip was more than just hiking; it was a journey into a rugged, timeless landscape that would give us the chance to unplug, reconnect with nature, and connect with the magic of the desert.
Planning for the Adventure: Preparing for a Toddler-Friendly Trip
When we were planning the trip, I wondered if we were setting ourselves up for failure. We hike every weekend when we are home, but that’s not the same as 14 days straight of hiking, especially when you are a three year old. We also had some pretty long days planned with ambitions for some hikes in the 8 mile range. I wondered if West would eventually just put his foot down and protest every mile.
As with most things I worry about when it comes to the toddler, my worrying was unfounded. We spent two glorious weeks camping and hiking in the desert. We lived outside for those two weeks and managed some long days too. West was awesome. He loved playing on the rocks and collecting neat ones. He loved discovering ruins.
Desert Discoveries: Highlights from Two Weeks on the Trail
Part of our success was in picking diverse adventures. Some were hunts to find interesting ruins and rock art. Some were slots filled with water forcing us to ford through waist high. Some adventures were short with plenty of time to climb in every nook and on top of every rock. We even managed a class 3 scramble down into a canyon filled with multiple kivas.
West hiked the furthest I have ever seen on this trip, totaling at least 2.5 miles under his own power. At three years old, we continue to do some mix of carrying him in the pack and him walking under his own power. It’s heavy, but much easier in the desert where there tends to be less elevation gain than the mountains. I know we will soon be entering the territory where we can no longer carry him in the pack so I get excited when he finds enthusiasm to hike a while himself.
Why the Outdoors Works for Us: Reflections on Parenting in Nature
The trip reminded me that for us parenting is easiest outdoors. The outlet for curiosity and exploration is endless. We require nothing technological or flashy to entertain ourselves. In fact in this case, we were super remote and well detached from the constant barrage of distraction. It was one of my favorite trips of all time.
