But what about naps??
Making sure baby is well rested is going to lead to a much happier hiker! I’ve found that making sure they get a good nap in before a hike is the best solution! The nap strategies listed below are for babies that usually take 2 naps a day. However, if your baby takes one nap a day that’s okay too! Having them nap on the way to or from the hike is a great solution!
Strategy 1 (my favorite)
- Play and have a normal morning at home.
- Let baby take a nap in the car on the way to the trailhead.
- Hike around for a few hours.
- Baby naps on the car ride home
Strategy 2
I often choose this strategy when the trail is less that 30 minutes away. That way there is still plenty of time left in babies wake window while you’re hiking.
- Wake up, feed baby, and head to the trail!
- Hike for a few hours.
- Head home.
Strategy 3
This is similar to strategy 2, but now you’re hiking in the afternoon instead of the morning. Perfect for catching a sunset or avoiding a cold morning!
- Head to the trailhead after babies morning nap.
- Hike for a few hours.
- Baby naps in the car on the way home.
