By Jonah Lisa Dyer
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Just like going on a run, catching the first tram, or weeding the garden, the hardest part of getting outdoors with kids is taking that first step—getting everyone’s shoes on and walking through the threshold of your own front door! Once you’re out there, the fresh air and serotonin do the rest. Still, many of us struggle with maintaining an outdoor lifestyle once we have kids.
Using other people’s successes as your inspiration can be the perfect antidote for feelings of apathy on days when the pull of inertia is particularly strong. Here’s a roundup of some great outdoor family blogs that will inspire you to lace up and get outside with your kids.
Outdoor Families Online
Despite being relatively new, this online magazine and community is like the wise old grandma of outdoor family blogs. They cover everything from trail snacks and gear reviews to camping bin organization, geocaching, and even “doing the backcountry” for those with Type I diabetes. It’s where family and nature unite. Check out their fabulous 101 Series. outdoorfamiliesonline.com
Go Adventure Mom
These two Utah moms aim to create the next generation of children who love the outdoors by offering easy-to-replicate exploration ideas, product reviews, family travel tips, and a great podcast that feels like listening to a couple of close friends. The layout is crisp and clean and the info is solid. goadventuremom.com
Tales of Mountain Mama
This small Yellowstone-centric blog packs a big punch with tips, tricks, and gear reviews for family adventurers. Mountain Mama fully understands the struggle of being a stressed, overwhelmed multitasker and takes you along as she uses nature as her remedy. talesofamountainmama.com
Mountain Mom and Tots
Outdoor inspiration abounds on this blog that implores families to explore rather than hike. Their seven-week road trip along the National Park-to-Park Highway—encompassing 17 national parks and monuments—is well worth a visit. Look for great camping and winter sports resources as well. mountainmomandtots.com
Currently Wandering
An amazing resource for the camper crowd. This family writes about their experience of downsizing to an airstream and traveling the country with their school-aged kids. Look for great gear reviews and information on specific trips that can be accessed by year, state, or national park. currentlywandering.com
Born to be Adventurous
Living to our north in the Canadian Rockies, this mom has wonderful tips for hiking with the baby and toddler crowd. She’s full of great ideas and encouragement, including her 52 Weeks of Nature challenge. borntobeadventurous.com
