Now that summer is in full swing here in CO, it's time to hit the mountains and go hiking! Hiking can be quite the task and even more fun with kiddos. After spending a summer living on the coast of Mississippi, I realized how much I miss the mountains here in Colorado! My family, especially my toddler Charlie, could live outside. 

Here are a few tips to help keep everyone happy and safe while on a hike, as well as what it looks like hiking with baby gear! 

1. Stay hydrated! When you are going to spend some time outside, especially in the sun & heat, it's important that you and your kiddos are well hydrated. I usually carry a backpack loaded with the water bottles (talk about an extra work out). Charlie loves using the EcoVessel Kids Water Bottle from REI. It keeps his water cool all day and it doesn't leak! 

2. Sunscreen! It is so important to apply an SPF before heading out in to the Colorado sunshine. We are so close to the sun here and my little guy (and my husband ;)) burn easily. We love using Sun Bum Sunscreen for the whole family. It's Paraben free and smells like a tropical vacation.

3. Storage! Hiking with baby gear can be a lot to carry. I carry the Parker Baby Birch Bag in Cream. It holds all our snacks, water bottles, and sunscreen! I also like to carry an extra hat for Charlie and a small first aid kit in case anything happens on the hike.

Daniel (my husband) will wear a baby carrier to haul Charlie around in case he gets tired from walking. We were gifted a Kelty Child Carrier and couldn't love it more! It's light weight, comfortable, and has plenty of storage space for anything extra we might need on the hike, which makes hiking with baby gear that much easier. 

4. Comfy shoes! I couldn't stress the importance of comfortable shoes and socks more than when you are hiking! No one wants a blister from uncomfortable shoes. If it's cold, Daniel and I both wear Columbia hiking boots that we got on sale during Black Friday. But we love our Chacos in the summer!

Charlie is still a little guy and spends a good amount of time in the child carrier but we invested in a pair of Keens for him. They are waterproof and keep his little feet feeling comfortable and ready for adventure! 

5. Remember to have FUN! A good attitude and a little patience go a long way on a hike! And keep you kids' interests in mind. Charlie loves to point out the trees and the rocks on a hike. He also loves to stop and smell the flowers (which is a lesson we can all keep in mind).

If your kiddos are old enough and the trail is easy for them to maneuver, let them explore a little and really enjoy the different features of the trek! Not all hikes will go smoothly and hiking with baby gear can be exhausting, but with these few tips, some snacks, and a smile, I guarantee that you will make memories you and your little ones will always remember! 

Happy hiking!

Emma