Raising a family outdoors requires both knowledge and experience. Team Sierra bloggers were asked about what it is like to mix motherhood with the outdoors. Mothers of Tales of a Mountain Mama, Outdoorsy Mama, and Just Trails came out to share their experiences. Here is what they said:

Is it important to have family time outdoors?

Sophia: My family and I enjoy our time outdoors. We seem to stay happy when we spend our day cleaning the house and going out to explore the trail. More than that, it is important for me to raise my kids in the outdoors because we need to protect the areas which we love. We need to raise kids who learn to grow with nature and take care of it in the coming years. I believe, we need to frequently get away from our mundane lives with the chaos of televisions and computers and enjoy nature at its purest form.

How do you see the outdoors after becoming a parent?

Carla: I used to be an avid traveller and used to love the outdoors before having kids. I used to enjoy every second of it. I have gained experience in doing the groundwork after having kids as we learn the developmental benefits that nature has to offer to us over time. It is an actual belief backed up by science that nature really helps you build healthy human beings. Hence, I simply enjoy my time out with my little ones in the outdoors.

What are the outdoor activities which you enjoy the most?

Annie: Well, there are various types of activities that my children love while we are enjoying the outdoors. Once a year, I try to free myself from the responsibilities and let someone else take over so that I can have my time with the nature. Be it hiking, rafting, cycling, etc. I can do those activities without a hassle.

Carla: I love riding my bike on my own as well as with my family. Whenever we are out and about with our adventures, we always get active and my mind stays fresh. It actually goes a long way for the entire family!

What has been the most challenging thing about maintaining a family lifestyle outdoors?

Sophia: When my kids were young, it was a bit challenging as a new mother to manage things altogether. There are more bellies to keep full and happy and different personalities which you have to take into account. But trust me! All is worth it. Once you know how to maintain both the adventure part and the household part, it gets easier. You start to have fun outdoors doing activities which you wouldn’t have had otherwise.

How do you tend to explore as a parent?

Annie: I like to hike or walk the trails with far distances. I really love to summit big peaks. Before I had kids, it was easier and I could do it in a minimum time. However, after I became a mother, I learned to curb my expectations. There is a time and place to meet my goals and expectations, especially when I am out with my children.

 Are there any tips for new moms who love the outdoors?

Carla: You can easily find a group who loves to motivate each other and enjoy the outdoors. You will be able to learn as well as plan things out accordingly. Take baby steps and do not go out for crazy adventures on the first go! You can take one day at a time to enjoy the outdoors and have a fun time with your kids.