Getting out on the trail with a young family during Colorado’s colder months can be intimidating. All the extra gear, working around their schedules and motivating yourself to get out in the cold is tough, but it’s not impossible. With the right gear, planning and patience, there are plenty of activities from hiking to cross country skiing that your family can take advantage of this winter.

GEAR

Stay cozy: Make sure your little one stays warm in a full down bunting or snowsuit. Several companies, such as Patagonia, The North Face and Columbia, make good quality pieces. Check the weather outside and layer underneath accordingly. A lightweight or heavy onesie, socks and a beanie will keep them toasty.

Pack: Find a pack that’s comfortable for both you and your baby. Whether you’re still in a front carrier in those early months, have transitioned to a frame backpack or are using a kids trailer on skis, such as the Burley or the Thule Chariot, there are a lot of options on the market. It’s also helpful to attach a pacifier and/or a toy to your pack so it doesn’t get lost on the trail.

Got milk? An insulated thermos is a must have for any cold weather adventure. Whether you are keeping milk warm, need hot water to mix with formula or want a hot chocolate for yourself, a good thermos will keep your beverage to temperature for hours.

Blankets: Blankets are lightweight and versatile. A lightweight muslin blanket blocks the wind when draped over a backpack, and a packable down blanket adds extra warmth when wrapped around their little bodies.

Bring the heat: Kids stay warmer next to you in a front pack, but if you’ve transitioned to a trailer, a hot water bottle adds extra heat when tucked in the blankets.

All the extras: Arm your pack with diapers, wipes, an extra outfit and snacks. Snacks are key for you and your kids — bonus points if you bring some to share with your friends.

Visit the Spoke+Blossom Gear Hub for all of our seasonal recommendations.

PLANNING

Set yourself up for success: Before you leave the house, test out your gear to make sure you have all the necessary pieces and everything is accounted for when you load up the car. Start your day off right and change them into a fresh diaper at the trailhead just before you stuff them into a snowsuit and set off on the trail.

Scheduling: You know your baby best, so schedule your activity around their nap or awake times. Planning your adventure around what works for their sleep schedules, whether on the trail or at home, will help your day go smoothly. With a newborn, walking guaranteed us a nap. As they get older, taking a hike while they’re awake seems to work out better since there’s so much stimulation being outside. Morning outings are usually best, as most kids tend to be less cranky and more flexible earlier in the day.

Feeding: Bring more than enough food with you; you can always leave a cooler in the car. Plan to either feed at the trailhead and/or at your destination. Or, snack the whole way — whatever works for your family.

PATIENCE

Give yourself some grace. It may not always be perfect. You may not be able to strictly adhere to your schedule. They may break down, have a blowout or you forget something essential. It’s okay; we’re all human. You’ll all survive. The key to success is to be patient and flexible with your day and your family. It may not always go as planned, but if you can maintain a positive attitude, being outside is healthy and beneficial to both you and your little ones. Get out there and enjoy!

Originally published in the Winter 2021-22 issue of Spoke+Blossom.

Don’t Stop When The Temps Drop: A Guide To Venturing Outside With Your Little Ones

GEAR

PLANNING

PATIENCE