What happens when you let your kids take the lead outdoors? In this week’s episode, Adrianna shares how giving children — especially toddlers and preschoolers — a voice on the trail helps them build independence, confidence, and leadership skills in nature.

From choosing which way to turn at a fork to helping decide where the bear spray should go, every small decision teaches kids trust, awareness, and responsibility. Adrianna also dives into:

• Simple ways to turn hikes into hands-on learning adventures

• How to make outdoor play part of your child’s emotional and sensory development

• Mindful moments on the trail that strengthen family bonds

• Tips for managing meltdowns, keeping hikes fun, and embracing curiosity over summits

Plus, she shares her new Take a Hike and Count activity sheet — now available through the free Kids Who Explore membership — and why outdoor learning doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

Whether your little ones are collecting pinecones or leading the way to a creek, this episode reminds parents that adventure isn’t about how far you go — it’s about how present you are when you get there. 🌿

Tune in and tag us @kidswhoexplore when you bring these trail lessons to life!

Fall hiking with a baby can feel overwhelming. There are so many layers, unpredictable weather, and high price tags on outdoor gear. But with the right preparation, thrifty tips, and a few layering tricks, you and your little one can enjoy the magic of the trail this season.

In this episode, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about layering babies for fall adventures in the Canadian Rockies (and beyond). From base layers and fleece buntings to budget-friendly gear swaps, I’ll walk you through how to keep your baby safe, warm, and comfortable outdoors without breaking the bank.

You’ll also learn:

• The 3-layer system I use for babies on the trail

• How to temperature-check your baby while hiking

• Affordable ways to find quality gear (thrifting, swaps, and secondhand gems)

• My go-to baby brands for bunting suits, base layers, and socks

• Why preparing for “just in case” makes adventures less stressful

Whether your fall is crisp mornings or mild afternoons, this episode will help you feel ready, confident, and excited to explore with your baby this season.

Thinking about taking your baby on their first backpacking trip? In this episode, I share our family’s real-life experience of heading into the backcountry with a little one in tow. From the fears and the unknowns, to the joy of watching my baby connect with nature, I break down what actually worked for us—plus the challenges that moms don’t always hear about before going.

Whether you’re wondering what gear you really need, how to handle unexpected moments (like baby messes or wildlife sightings!), or if this kind of adventure is even doable as a new mom, this episode will give you honest, practical insight.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the idea of backpacking with a baby can feel overwhelming—and why it’s still possible

• The gear that made a difference on the trail (and what I’d skip next time)

• Tips for handling feeding, sleep, and comfort in the backcountry

• The emotional side of adventuring as a mom and trusting yourself on the trail

• How to balance safety, preparation, and creating joyful family memories outdoors

Whether you’re planning your very first trip or just curious what it’s really like, this episode will help you feel prepared, encouraged, and ready to say “yes” to backcountry adventures with your little one.

Relevant Blog Posts:

Backpacking Gear Checklist for Moms & Babies

The Best Baby & Toddler Safe Sleeping Bag for Camping & Backpacking Adventures

Trail Magik: The Best Adventure Kid Carrier for Backpacking