Criteria for a Baby-Friendly Hike

How hikes are evaluated:

Conventionally, hikes would be evaluated based on difficulty of terrain and changes in elevation. When hiking with babies, top issues for me to consider are

1. Trail conditions – Can the baby be easily and safely transported along the trail? If so, what type of baby transportation works best?
   Paved Trail
   
   Fine Gravel / Packed Dirt Trail
   
   Coarse Gravel
   
   Jogger (Large-wheeled Stroller)
   
   Small-wheeled Stroller
   
   Backpack or Carrier
   
   
2. Quality of the post-pregnancy workout – Can the workout be maintained at a mainly aerobic level, without risk to the mom (many of which will not have worked out aerobically for several months)? Are there significant challenges, considering that stroller-pushing or carrying a backpack or front carrier, add resistance to the workout?
   Flat (Easy) Trail - least risk of anaerobic workout
   
   Few / Gradual Hills (Moderate) Trail
   
   Hilly (Hard) Trail - most risk of anaerobic workout
   
   Difficult Terrain Navigation - Caution
   
   Stairs
   
   
3. Break opportunities – Are there good stopping places along the hike that can be used for water breaks, changing diapers, removing clothing layers, or having a snack? Are there benches or tables without great risk for acquiring ticks or poison oak?
   Picnic Tables
   
   Benches
   
   Meadow / Field / Tarmac
   
   Bathrooms
   
   Businesses (Cafes, etc.)
   
   
4. Shade conditions - This varies according to time of day, but approximately what amount of the hike is shaded?
   No Shade
   
   About 25 percent Shade
   
   About 50 percent Shade
   
   About 75 percent Shade
   
   Almost All Shade
   

Other items that are addressed with each hike:

1. Attractions other than the hike itself, including but not limited to:
   Dogs on Leash Allowed
   
   Bikes Allowed
   
   
2. Limitations or restrictions to the hike area
3. Season for the hiking area
4. Handicapped access
5. Other logistics like fees, parking, and location