Hiking with your newborn and other new parents offers community and support, adventuring in nature, the chance to discover our awesome local parks, and of course, some calorie-burning.
I began hiking with my daughter in the months after COVID-19 became a global threat. She was born on March 11, 2020 — the day that the World Health Organization declared COVID a pandemic. It was a tough time, one full of isolation and worry.
As a first-time mom, I didn’t have the supports that you would normally expect: no grandparents or aunties/uncles to help out, no postpartum groups to help me find a community of other parents with whom I could share my questions and concerns, celebrate and commiserate. Everything and nearly everyone was locked down.
I was struggling. I’d survived a traumatic childbirth and was diagnosed with acute stress and PTSD. As part of my recovery, I — an avid hiker — wanted so badly to get back on the trail. The first time I did, I felt like I won the lottery. I kept going, and then brought along my daughter, pushing her up many a hill to cheers from fellow hikers, helping rebuild my confidence.
A few friends asked to join me. From there, word spread: Friends have added friends, and today, our group numbers several dozen, with the kids ranging in age from 2 months to 7 years. Check out our schedule and what’s included.
- Guided hike: The hike will be between 2-5 miles. I’ll find hikes that are appropriate for the season (shaded, exposed, etc.) as well as for carriers and/or strollers. I’ll share some local history and information about the plants and animals.
- Support space and community: Mid-hike, or at the end of it (if the hike is short), we’ll stop for a picnic, chat and check ins, and rest.
- Prep: What are some hiking with newborn and toddler hacks? Can you breastfeed while hiking?
- Kid-friendly features: Story time, water play where available.
- Goal setting: I’ll offer a short mindfulness practice during our hike and encourage you to set goals (if you want), such as training for hiking or walking competitions, as well as for self care.
- Hike curated specifically for little explorers and their loved ones
- Kid-friendly activities, like story time, simple art projects, playing in the dirt and water play, where available
- First aid kit that’s kid specific (Orajel, Tylenol)
- CPR certified provider (me)
- Hiking poles, jogging stroller and BabyBjörn carrier (limited supplies)
Learn more about what’s included.
Who:
- “Mommy” is meant to be inclusive and universal. We’ve had outings with dads and grandparents, and I encourage all those who identity as gender fluid or female to join.
- All levels. We do easy and hard.
When:
- Tuesdays and Saturdays (paid)
- Free community hike on Thursday mornings (once a month)
Where:
- Mostly the Peninsula and South Bay, with some excursions to San Francisco, the North Bay and East Bay. I take you on some less-traveled, enchanting hikes.
Cost (@Miranda-Stuart on Venmo):
- $35/drop-in
- $120/passbook of four hikes
- If you are a lifetime member of Blossom Birth, you can 10% off a drop-in or a passbook. If you are not a member of Blossom Birth, they are offering $10 off of their lifetime memberships. Learn more.
Check out our schedule.
I love leading this group and I hope you will love being a part of it. Also, I hope you like to sweat ~ Miranda
Questions? Email (miranda@mommymehiking.com) or call 650-888-2765 or 650-382-2263
Hi Miranda, when do you hikes with a lunch at the end like I remember once you had mentioned about lunching at alpine inn. I would be interested to combine hiking and an experience of rest and socialization.
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