Over the River and Through the Woods...Carrying your baby on Nature Hikes

Strollers often can't fit or simply aren't allowed on nature trails. In addition, the view from the stroller can be somewhat limiting and also limits you on what you can see for the day. Putting your baby in a carrier also allows mom (or dad) to fit in some weight-bearing exercise. My calves felt good after this hour hike in a local preserve.

An Ergobaby or other soft carrier with buckle support works great for local, short nature hikes with your baby.  In this photo, I am wearing this as a facing in option with my then 5 month old. You can breastfeed in this position without losing stride in your hike, and the real sounds of nature will lull your baby to sleep if you are out during nap time. The ergobaby features a sleeping hood which snaps just over the shoulders. It is not too hot, but provided the necessary darkened, "private space" my baby seems to need to nap. The ergobaby can get hot, so this is best for moderate temperature weather. You can also wear this in the hip carry position. I find the hip carry to be better for older babies that like to move around, "grab" and generally be part of the action. The ergobaby places a strap in front that securely holds your baby while in the hip carry position (this is rare for hip carry). I feel confident hiking while in the hip carry position in this carrier. "Organic Cotton Baby Carrier" "Options Baby Carrier"

We went to the Warren Dunes where I got a true workout...walking on sand with a 20 lb 6 month old! This is a Bebe Confort backpack carrier. It is a discontinued French carrier, but it rocks! It is compact and light and allows my baby to see everything I do (and probably more). The view is uncomparable and the comfort is at a maximum for both parties. This is the coolest carrying option as there is minimal skin and heavy fabric contact. The shade awning is a major bonus and covers my baby at all angles while hiking. No sunburn this weekend! Her legs hang straight but touch a toe strap, she loves this carrier and feels like a big girl I think! She even was able to nap in it, although I think I'd like to sew her a mini-boppy pillow for her neck so it doesn't roll around. This carrier is fairly comfortable, as comfortable as a high carry position can be with a 20 lb-er. It is better carrying her this way than any other carriers. But you need to be sure to properly fasten the carrier around your waist before weight of baby is pressing on your body. Having a buddy help or sitting on the floor after baby is in carrier to fasten the buckles helps. Baby must be in carrier before you put it on though! For safety! I found this Kelty one which looks similar to mine, it has a shade component: "Baby Carrier Backpack"

About to go up a massive set of stairs in the dunes! Didn't feel it much with this beauty of a carrier!

This carrier also features a "sit position" which we used as a make-shift high chair while camping.