How do we hike with a two-year-old? The answer to that question changes daily. When West was a newborn up to 18 months, it was pretty straightforward. We placed him in our Osprey pack and off we ventured! Many naps were taken in that pack as we trod along the trails, and we even hit a record of 15 miles during that stage. Indeed, having a child didn’t seem to hamper our outdoor adventures; in fact, we felt more rugged than ever.
The Evolution of Hiking with Kids
However, hiking with two-year-olds? That’s an entirely different ball game. Suddenly, there are words and strong opinions. They have a desire to move – everywhere – but seemingly never in the direction you’d hope for. West’s days of calmly hanging in the pack, observing the world while we covered miles, seem like a distant memory. But for us, hiking is more than a pastime; it’s life. It’s also our chance to instill in West an enduring love for hiking, even if it means treading more cautiously regarding our expectations.
The Two-Year-Old Hiker’s Playbook
Just this week, we embarked on a modest 3-mile hike in a previously unexplored area close to our home. While the mere thought of three miles might be a blow to our adventurous spirits, this hidden gem of a journey proved breathtakingly beautiful. Most of our recent hikes follow a rather predictable yet amusing pattern, which can be summarized in our ’10 Phase Plan for a Leisurely Hike’:
- 1. Squeeze the spirited West into the pack, using M&Ms as calming bribes.
- 2. Walk swiftly early on before patience wanes, and a constant plea of “Down” ensues.
- 3. Engage in zany antics on the trail using the “super, crazy, secret, magic, backpack.”
- 4. Catch our breath from the exhausting zigzagging with the weight of both child and pack.
- 5. Succumb to West’s incessant requests and let him explore on foot.
- 6. Leisurely amble a quarter-mile, pointing out nature’s wonders to cultivate his sense of awe.
- 7. Gently remind him that the pack will be necessary for our return home.
- 8. Choose a picturesque spot for snacks, play, and a bit of adult relaxation.
- 9. Cajoled the little explorer back into his pack.
- 10. Revel in the hike’s beauty, reminiscing with West and perhaps ourselves, about the joy of the journey.
Discovering Nature’s Wonders Together
While our current approach may have its quirks, the great outdoors remains our haven. It’s where West communicates with crows, flits between flowers, and marvels at nature’s simple wonders. Though I pine for the longer hikes of yesteryears, I’ve come to appreciate the slow, cherished miles with West and nature’s other friends.
Planning for Extended Adventures in Utah
As spring approached, we were faced with more complex queries: Can we manage an 8 or 9.5-mile hike? Will West nap as he did before? Our upcoming trip to the Utah desert, particularly the Grand Gulch in Cedar Mesa, would be a test of our adaptability. We modified our expectations, seeking more “family-friendly” trails, and yes, even some roadside attractions. But we had a few guiding principles in mind – always having backup plans, traveling slow, embracing new challenges, and being present in the moment.
Embracing the Unexpected on the Trail
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that not every day is perfect. Sometimes, our little one cries on hikes, and other times, he’s a picture of joy. Toddlers, with their inscrutable ways, can be unpredictable. Yet, as we’ve learned, the key is resilience and consistency. For us, the outdoors remains non-negotiable, a space to nurture our dreams and, hopefully, kindle West’s passion for nature.
In the end, our shared outdoor experiences, with all their highs and lows, remind us of the immense value of family bonding, nature’s wonders, and the simple joy of being alive.
