Tag: toddlers

No Reception Club: Are These The Best Bags For Families?

Travel Bags made to last

Is the idea of flying with your kids enough to make you stop in your tracks, stay home and dream of the ‘one day’ when things will become easier? Word on the street – that ‘one day’ ain’t coming. It’s time to embrace doing the hard things now, and the more ya do it, the easier it’ll become. Especially when equipped with the right tools.

The tools of the travel trade begin with your luggage. Believe you me, as an ex-flight attendant with ADHD, I wholeheartedly know the value of staying organized while on the fly. Your bags are the backbone of your trip, to feeling grounded while on the move, lugging your gear and your kids prized possessions.

Bags that make travelling with kids a little simpler.

Look no further than No Reception Club. These thoughtfully designed bags have come from a set of real-life (local Vancouverite) parents whom found a gaping hole in the market of organized travel with kiddos.

The idea of No Reception Club was birthed when their first was just a wee babe, on a 6 hour flight to Hawaii. Where, oh where were their diapers and wipes? With limited opportunity to get up and use the lavs on bumpy busy flights, you don’t want to be stuck questioning where your essentials are, believe you me. Thus came the idea of creating the best possible carry-on baby/toddler/kid bags on the market. They have succeeded, with not 1, but now 3 said bags, and rumour has it a wheelie bag is in the near future.

Blending Gemma’s background in fashion design and Daniel’s idea-generating mind in tech, they care deeply about creating the best kid travel bags out there and the world our children inherit. They know the importance of travel, the lived experience education gained and the connection that comes from being disconnected – to have No Reception.

We could’ve written their mission statement ourselves:

‘We empower parents to go on family adventures because we believe travel becomes more important with little ones, not less.’

Our boy with the wrapped unboxing of the no reception club duffel bag — Yup. We can get behind their motto. What’s a motto? Nuthin, what’s a motto with you? 😉

With their lifetime warranty, they stand behind their product. And so do we.

Their multi-award winning travel bags, the Hideaway Duffel and the Getaway Bag are so beautifully planned, they’ve kept my jet-lagged and sleep-deprived mind far less messy on the road. No more forgetting which pocket the passports are in when you’re struggling with sleeping kids off a red-eye. I will give a brief summary of why we choose their bags. You can find far more info, more specs and a great blog on their website.

Have we all been here? When the kids finally fall asleep towards the end of the flight, and you wanna maximize their zzz’s, so you wait until the very last minute once you’re organized, to pick ’em up.

And again. Too hard waking up a sleeping bébé.

The Sidekick Bag

Our well loved Sidekick bag, kickin’ around for the past 3+ years.

We’ve used the Sidekick bag on the daily since our now nearly 4 year old was just a baby. It’s handy, it’s light, it’s simple and straightforward. It’s conveniently equipped with a change pad, and space for diapers, bum cream – all the essentials. The designated magnetic quick-access pocket for wipes is clever. It feels fuss free, perfect for keeping stashed in your car or stroller, conveniently on hand for whenever the poop face strikes. It’s made simply for diapers, nothing else (other than maybe a few small toys – if you need some help entertaining your wee one while in diaper change mode).

The easy access magnetic opening wipe door.

The Getaway bag 4.0

Our version 1.0 of the Getaway Bag. We be lovin’ this OG just as it is for over 3 years.

Updates on the 4th edition of their OG hero product.

No Reception Club bags are designed to evolve with your kids, and that’s just what the design of The Getaway Bag is doing as Gemma and Daniel’s ‘third kid’. They’re not only figuring how to make the most organized bag, they’re answering the question of how to be the most comfortable product on the market

Your backpack will never be heavier and stuffed with more stuff, than when you have a very small child. An organized and comfortable backpack needs to be emphasized during this phase of life.

They’re answering their call to comfort with their latest upgrades. The latest version comes with contoured shoulder straps, an air strip down the back with more structured and denser foam to keep things cool and cozy while navigating airports and new places. They’ve also added a secure sternum strap that stays in place while moving around. The trusty award winning bag still has the same ol’ wonderful design, the inside shelves flexible and removable to arrange different items as interests mature. Feeding, changing, entertainment divided organized shelves, accessed by a side panel and top opening. The opposite side panel zippers open, to reveal an opening that conveniently fits the sidekick bag or any other must-haves.

Our well loved Getaway bag and it’s side shelves.

Also, winning extra points on their social service, direct from their website: ‘Every Getaway Bag sold will help Baby2Baby distribute 20 diapers to a baby in need.‘

The Hideaway Duffel

Not just the best bag for long haul flights, we bring this puppy everywhere, ready for all totally excellent adventures!

The real test came when I slipped in the mud while crossing a stream to get to our backcountry campsite. Although muddy and wet on the outside, the goods inside were intact, dry and clean. Once the mud dried, it easily wiped off, and now over a year later, looks brand new (see first image) thanks to the durable CORDURA® Eco 600D/1200D polyester shell.

This duffel is a narrow personal fave of all No Reception Club’s bags. Although each bag serves a different purpose, this one tames my ADHD sleepy travelling mind the most. I use this bag less while on the go/flights, but more once we arrive. With a customizable and removable organizer insert aka ‘the cubby’, I can keep my daughter’s clothes, jammies and toys separate from my son’s. It’s 42 litre capacity is perfect for 2 toddlers, also meeting the allowed carry-on dimensions. We may have to purchase another down the road to grow our bag space with our growing kids, or just get used to packing less.

Laundry bay on left, cubby installed to divide and conquer!

The added laundry bag is brilliant, as are the odour resistant compartments to keep your stinky socks and soiled shoes in. The handy stash pockets are created to fit easy access items, such as toys, books, and NRC’s accessories – the Dopp Kit, sliders and/or their insulated lunch kit.

The Hideaway Duffel can also conveniently be carried in various ways, with backpack straps, a single shoulder strap, many handles, and a back pocket to fit over your rolley bag.

The Dopp Kit

Small but mighty. No Reception Club really does make feeling organized, with kids, seem simple. This toiletry bag is made for littles to fit their little stash of bathroom stuffs. For us, there’s enough space on short adventures, to fit mom and dad’s things too. With see-through windows and mesh pockets on the inside, no more hide-and-seek in a dark oblivion to find where their things are.

Comparison

Although not comparable in their use, here’s a quick rundown of price and size.

Bag	SideKick Bag	The Getaway Bag	The Hideaway Duffel	The Dopp Kit
Price	$100 CAD	$275 CAD	$345 CAD	$66 CAD
Use	Diaper Fanny Pack	Travel Diaper Backpack	Carry-On Carry-All	Kids Toiletry Bag
Size	3 Litres	24 Litres	42 Litres	23cm x 14 x 4cm

Cons

Can’t think of many. Some fun colours could be nice, as the selection is pretty basic. I get the bags are made for the parents to lug around, but our kids are sparkly, I could see them getting more onboard with them if they looked totally excellent through their eyes.

The price is slightly steep. With their lifetime warranty, you can hope that they’ll stick with your kid for life. I know once our youngest is out of diapers, we can easily repurpose the Sidekick fanny pack as a convenient carry all, and the backpack and duffel are certainly age-less.

If you’re looking for lightweight and flexible bags to take on your next backcountry backpack trip, these may not be for you.

In Conclusion

We’ve been testing No Reception Clubs bag for three years now. We can attest that their product is durable, excellent quality and built to last. With their ethics of paying it forward to baby’s in need, using mostly recycled materials, and inspiring families to get out there and explore, they are creating a better world world for our children – one bag at a time.

👍👍

Stay tuned

This review comes as No Reception Club just released their latest version of their Getaway Bag (June 2026). Word on the street is they’ll also be coming out with a roller bag. So keep your eyes peeled for the latest drop in their delightfully designed family of bags.

July 2, 2026

Murrin Park: A Short, Sweet Taste of Hiking the Coast Mountains
Right off the bat, let’s say it: if you want to do a most excellent hike in Squamish and you have the stamina to go up and down 800m in a single session, The Chief is bar none the best route around. But this is a page about family adventures—and more specifically, families with little ones. This hiking guide is for those who want to get the taste of a good coastal BC hike but either don’t have the time or the wherewithal to get too gnarly.

But if you want righteous views, bodacious groves of old-growth trees, and just enough sweat to remind your heart that a little exercise is most excellent, then may we present to you Murrin Park, just a few kilometers south of Squamish. It’s located right at the top of the hill between Shannon Falls and Britannia Beach, making it a must-stop spot along the Sea to Sky highway.

Why This Trail Builds Resilient Kids

Living in the Sea to Sky corridor for nearly two decades, I’ve found that getting kids stoked on the outdoors is about finding that perfect reward-to-effort ratio. Taking our kids out here has proven that short, punchy trails followed by a world-class view are the best recipe for building resilience. They get to scramble over roots, navigate varied terrain, and learn the basic life skills of foot placement and pacing, all without the exhaustion that leads to meltdowns.

It’s also an incredible place to introduce a culture of mountain safety early on. As a backcountry guide, I treat these summer hikes as foundational training. We practice staying together, observing our surroundings, and making smart decisions on uneven ground, which hopefully will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

The Route & The Rocks

Rock climbing is regarded as religion in the park. As long as the kids keep a safe distance, there is usually a friendly climber who will happily answer questions from curious minds about their gear and what they are doing. It’s a fantastic way to expose little ones to different outdoor pursuits.

The loop trail offers excellent panoramic views of Howe Sound, but a quick heads up: if you’re not used to hiking, the way down can be a bit steeper than expected, especially if the kids are tired and want to be carried. It’s not impossible, but it does take some slow, deliberate walking to ensure safety. Strollers are fine at the lake, but you’ll soon want to ditch them for a hiking backpack if you want to get anywhere good.

The Hard Data: Logistics & Amenities
- Distance & Elevation: The loop is roughly 1.8km with about 160m (524 ft) of elevation gain. Expect it to take 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Amenities: There are no running water or food facilities here, so stock up before arriving. There are standard pit toilets located right by the parking lot and halfway along the loop trail.
- Post-Hike Vibe: There are plenty of picnic tables next to Browning Lake right at the base. Bring snacks or a lunch and make an afternoon of it.
- Parking: Parking can get pretty nuts on the weekends. Your best bet is to come before noon midweek. (Note: Do not park on the highway shoulder; you will be towed).
View More Of Our Adventures

Murrin Park is just one of the many locations that we’ve featured in Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea to Sky.

If you want to make a day of it, the park is just down the road from Shannon Falls and the Sea to Sky Gondola.

We also have a ton of gear reviews to help you explore in comfort and practicality, and love to hear from other families who are out there doing it. Or learn more about us where you can also get in touch.

Visiting the Sea to Sky? Check out our free app

We made an app to help families visiting the Sea-to-Sky corridor plan their trip more efficiently. Filter by activity, location, and your kid’s age and effort level. Check it out and let us know what you think!

Sea To Sky Family Navigator App
June 5, 2026
Cheakamus Lake: An Iconic Hike in Whistler
Note: This trail is currently undergoing maintenance, with the reopening scheduled for summer 2026.

There are very few places you can visit where its residents live over 10 times longer than humans. Cheakamus Lake is a step into the ancient. The stillness here carries a weight; the striking feeling that the life around you existed long before you arrived, and will remain long after. The forest starts on the lower slopes of Whistler mountain, extending far into the wilderness where few humans have ever set foot.
Quick Stats:
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (Mostly flat, but long for small legs).
- Best For: Families seeking old-growth immersion without a massive climb.
- Seasonal Note: The road is usually snow-free from late May through October. In early June, the forest is at its most vibrant and “mossy.”
The Trail In

The trail starts at the end of the Cheakamus Lake Road, a 8km winding road that you take from the highway at the first lights when you get to town from the south. The road can get dusty in the summer, so watch your speed.

From the parking lot, it’s 3km to the lake. The first 1km is probably the steepest and most un-interesting as the area has been logged in the past. But once you hit the old-growth forest (and you’ll know when you do), it’s a surreal feeling. You step through a curtain of boughs to enter a biome that is teeming with life energy—if you’re willing to slow down to listen.

The Forest

The sheer size of these trees is what stands out the most. Very few people have actually spent time in an ancient forest, and it shows. I firmly believe that the more time people spend in forests like these, the less disharmony we would all have.

Nice spot for a snack!

Arriving at the Lake

About 1km from the lake, you begin to see the Cheakamus River that the lake feeds. That is the sign that you are close. Several branches of the trail get close to the river, but with little ones you’ll still want to stay a ways away for their safety. But soon enough, you will see the first view of the lake; and what a view it is.

The stunning turquoise hues come from the silt that the glaciers grind up, known as “glacial flour”. On a sunny day it refracts the light to a vibrant display that is much more stunning in person than any photo could capture.

The backdrop behind the lake showcases the wilderness of Garibaldi Provincial Park; an untamed backcountry area that is legendary for mountain exploration, given how close to civilization it actually is.

As beautiful as the lake is, it’s also extremely cold. The same glacier melt that causes the bright hues is also just above freezing…. so even on a hot day it’s a quick in-and-out to say you’ve done it type of thing. There are plenty of non-glacier lakes near Whistler to hang out at if you want to spend some time in the water.

The trail continues to wind around the lake to the far end; but after that, you’re on your own. If you’ve made it this far with kids, it’s probably a good time to head back. That is, unless you’re camping!

Camping at Cheakamus Lake

There are two campgrounds at Cheakamus Lake, both require reservations in advance. They have some cleared ground, a food cache, and outhouses, but not much else. If you have a wagon that would make things easier to haul stuff in—especially with kids.

But the experience you have at these sites is vastly different from the more glitzy frontcountry campsites that BC parks operates. Many times (especially mid-week or the offseason), your group will be the only ones there.

That solitude comes with a responsibility though. Cheakamus Lake is black bear habitat, and while encounters are rare, the odds go up tremendously if you leave food out. Once a bear becomes conditioned to human food, they will seek it out, and become aggressive. This is what the food caches are for. So make sure that you use them if camping out.

Helpful Info

Getting There & Parking
- Access: Turn off Highway 99 at the Cheakamus Lake/Function Junction intersection. Follow Cheakamus Lake Road for 8km.
- Road Conditions: It’s a gravel forestry road. While generally fine for 2WD vehicles, it’s notorious for “washboard” ripples and potholes. Take it slow, especially if the kids are prone to carsickness.
- Parking: The lot is at the very end of the road. It fills up early on sunny weekends, so aim to arrive before 9:30 AM or after 3:00 PM for the “golden hour” light.
Permits & Fees
- Day-Use Passes: For the 2026 season, BC Parks requires a free day-use pass to park here from mid-June through mid-October. You can reserve these starting at 7:00 AM two days before your visit at the BC Parks website.
- Camping Fees: If you’re staying overnight, reservations are mandatory year-round. It’s $10 per adult and $5 per child (6–15) per night, plus a small reservation fee.
- No Dogs Allowed: Since this is Garibaldi Provincial Park, pets aren’t permitted on the trails or in the campgrounds to protect the local wildlife.
Timing the Adventure
- Trail Distance: It is a flat 3km (1.8 miles) from the parking lot to the first lake access point (Cheakamus Lake Campground).
- Budgeting Time: * The “Hiker” Pace: 45 minutes each way.
  • The “Family” Pace: Budget 1.5 to 2 hours each way. This accounts for the “First Kilometer” climb, stopping to look at the massive Douglas Firs, and the inevitable “I found a cool rock” breaks.
  • Full Experience: Plan for 4–5 hours total if you want to enjoy a picnic and some shoreline exploring.
What to Pack
- The “Lake Layer”: Even if it’s 25°C in Whistler, the lake creates its own microclimate. Bring a light windbreaker or fleece for when you reach the shore.
- Bear Safety: This is active Black Bear country. Carry bear spray in an accessible spot (not buried in your pack) and make sure the kids know to stay close and keep the “chatter” up while walking. More information on how to be Bear Aware.
- Water & Food: There is no potable water at the trailhead or the lake. Bring a filter if you’re camping, or pack at least 1.5L of water per person for a day trip.
- Footwear: The trail is wide and “wagon-friendly” (if you have one with rugged off-road wheels), but roots can be slippery. Sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes are better than flip-flops.
A Note on Respect

This trail goes through some of the last accessible old-growth forest in British Columbia. It’s a sad, sobering statistic, but one that ushers even more urgency that we need to protect this area from harm. This means following Leave No Trace principles, and staying on the trail.

It also means respecting other people’s desire to be in nature and leaving loud speakers at home, packing out what you pack in. As the saying goes: Take only photographs, leave only footprints.

Good stewardship helps set a good example for our children, so that they grow up doing the same. Eventually that energy will spread, and hopefully our society will begin to value places like these more. That is our hope, at least.

Enjoy This Place of Wonder

Hiking to Cheakamus Lake is one of the best activities for families in Whistler, and one I have been showing my kids since they could barely see past the ends of their noses. They absolutely love it, and so do us parents. It’s a place I often take people visiting to help immerse them in the power and beauty of an old-growth forest.

Yes, the lake is a nice photogenic destination on the hike, but to me, it’s all about that feeling you get when you walk into the ancient forest. It’s hard to describe in words, but it’s a feeling that you can’t get out of you and sticks with you. And in doing so, hopefully it reinforces a desire to make sure places like this can thrive for many more generations and centuries to come.

Thanks for reading until the end! If you liked this, check out some of our other hikes for toddlers in the Sea-to-Sky. See you out on the trails!

Helpful Links

BC Parks Info Page on Cheakamus Lake

Cheakamus Lake Campground Reservations – Be sure to choose “Backcountry Camping”

Day Use Passes – Available 2 days before your visit

Want to Find More Hiking Spots? Check Out Our Free App

We made an app to help families navigate the Sea to Sky corridor a bit better. Check out the Sea to Sky Family Navigator app to plan your trip and find spots based on map, activity, location, and more! The best part, it’s free!

Sea To Sky Navigator App
- Shannon Falls: The Family Guide to This Sea To Sky Staple
  Shannon Falls is an easy stopover while going up the Sea to Sky Highway. The massive falls are just minutes from the parking lot, and will give you a glimpse of the massive scale of the Coast Mountains up close. Why Stop at Shannon Falls The park sits right on the Sea to Sky Highway… Read more: Shannon Falls: The Family Guide to This Sea To Sky Staple
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  Once in a while, you get to test a totally new innovation and see how it stacks up to the establishment it claims to be beating. I’ve just spent the past three months testing out the Unrestricted cooler on our family adventures: hiking, camping, and biking around the Sea to Sky region of British Columbia.… Read more: The Dometic Backpack Is the New Kid on The Block and A Bit Cooler than Others
- Splurging at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler
  Heads up: This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep our guides free. It never changes our picks or their order. Read our Gear Review Policy. Even if we had all the money in the world, we’d… Read more: Splurging at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler
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  Heads up: This review contains affiliate links. If you buy through one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep these reviews free to read. It never changes my verdict. Read my Gear Review Policy. — Steve I’m not as big of a football fan as I… Read more: Is the New Heights/OluKai Flip Flop Collab Worth the Premium Price Tag? A Review of the Mea Ola Nu’u
- Why Camp?
  For all the obvious reasons and the fresh air fun, duhh. But maybe it ain’t so obvious when you think of all the work involved, I certainly am no stranger to that all too familiar heavy hurdle. And sure, you can get a good dose of the outdoors by simply going for a walk, hike, picnic, beach day etc., but to really feel the benefits of nature, to feel the weight lift, our family likes to spend some solid time without a solid roof over our heads.
May 8, 2026
The Best Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea to Sky

Jump to: Horseshoe Bay | Squamish | Whistler | Pemberton

View Map

The Sea to Sky corridor in British Columbia is a hiker’s paradise. For families with toddlers, the same venues are also the ultimate classroom, playground, device-free, wonder-full venue for our kids to play in.

Our kids are now 2 and 3. They have outgrown the carrier/backpack stage, which actually made things better for mom and dad to get some extra mileage. Nowadays, our hikes are more of a bumble, but that is fine… seeing the world through their point of view is actually an activity that I (and I’m assuming many other parents) find great joy in practicing.

Having lived in the Sea to Sky corridor for over 22 years, I’ve spent a ton of time in these mountains on foot. But none has helped me really understand the ecosystem like a shortened walk for little legs and an in-the-moment attention span.

Sea to Sky Gondola is definitely worth the price of admission.

Our Favourite Hikes With Toddlers in the Sea to Sky

Here are some of our favourite easy, kid-friendly hikes along Highway 99, from Horseshoe Bay to Pemberton and beyond. They each have something unique to offer, with all of them manageable for little legs.

The lovely seaside hamlet of Horseshoe Bay, Where the Sea to Sky Highway begins

Horseshoe Bay: Start of the Sea-to-Sky Highway

Seaview Walk

This is an old road that was reclaimed into a trail, and is a favourite for locals to stretch their legs and walk the dog. The name is spot on and it’s more of a stroller-friendly walk than a hike. But at the far end of the walk by Nelson Creek there is a hike up toward Whyte Lake that is worth the 2-hour detour. It’s a fairly steady ascent to a small pass where the lake sits. The lake isn’t much but the forest and gulleys that you get to after crossing the highway are well worth the exercise for those with carriers, or bigger kids. It might be a lot with toddlers who don’t like backpacks, but if you have a backpack it’s a great workout for the parent!

It’s not a bucket-list destination but is a great stop if you want to break up a road trip before continuing up the Sea-to-Sky highway, or to burn off energy before getting into the ferry lineup.

Whytecliff Park

Whytecliff Park and Howe Sound

This park has a large grassy area, a decent sized playground, tennis courts, and a great natural trail system. We do warn that the “cliff” in the park name is not for show — it is a long drop from the cliff’s edge. The good news is that there are plenty of safe access points to the water, including a nice rocky beach with logs and millions upon millions of rocks that one can throw into the ocean.

Kid-friendly Hikes near Squamish

Murrin Park

Murrin Park is right off Highway 99 and one of the best easy hikes near Squamish for families. It’s a perfect stop if there’s heavy traffic heading up the corridor. The trail loops around the lake (about 2km) with ample rock-throwing opportunities along the way, if your kid is into that sort of thing. Getting a parking spot here is half the battle, but pretty easy before 10AM, so try to get there early if you can.

The park is a popular spot for rock climbers, which our kids love watching. The loop trail will take you around the park to a beautiful viewpoint (which you see in the feature image at the top of the page), although it can be a bit higher on the difficulty scale if your family is used to more flat ground. This might be a good trail to break out the backpack if you’ve got one, but it’s well worth the view looking at Howe Sound if you can muster the patience.

It’s not as extreme as it looks, we promise!

Alice Lake

This is an easy walk around the lake from the main parking lot (which can get incredibly busy in the summer). There are bigger loops one can do with some elevation such as the Four Lakes Trail, but for little legs it’s a nice walk around to the far side of the lake where there is some greenery to explore inmthe far side.

Parents and bigger kids who mountain bike will want to spend some time on the trails around Alice Lake — they are exceptionally good! And for the toddlers there’s a pump track that is well worth a visit, right next to the awesome forest playground.

The pump track at Alice Lake

Sea to Sky Gondola

Worth a visit if you’re from out of town, and worth an annual pass if you live around here! The gondola takes people up 800m above sea level to an area with well-cleared trails both short and long. The Alpine Alley trail is made specifically for little ones, with cutout animals along the way and information about local ecology. It’s an excellent way to spend a day, or even just a few hours in the afternoon or evening.

The Panorama Loop from the Sea to Sky gondola

Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in Whistler

Whistler has it all, from leisurely walks on the Valley Trail to Strenuous overnight backpacking missions in the alpine. Somewhere in-between is a good family-friendly hike that will suit any ability (or energy) level. And the best part is, most everywhere is Dog Friendly. Remember that Whistler is bear country; so it’s important to follow bear aware principles wherever you are.

Lost Lake Park

This is a must for any family visiting Whistler. It’s got everything you want in a good summers day…all packed up into one session. Beach time, easy hikes, and a trail network offering a good progression from beginning to intermediate trails make Lost Lake Park the best all-around spot in Whistler for summer fun. Parking is prohibited in the summer because it’s so busy, but there are shuttles from the village and day lots. Alternatively, it’s a 2km walk from the village, which is stroller and wagon friendly.

Lost Lake Park

Emerald Forest

This is a good hike with toddlers in the fall when the rains come and the mushrooms pop out. Summer is fine, but there isn’t much good water nearby to cool off, unless they are on bikes. There’s a pond but the water isn’t exactly free-flowing. However as a forest, the trails are easy and safe, and you can meander back and forth to kill a few hours easily. There are intermediate trails too if there are older siblings or cousins looking to be entertained.

Train Wreck

This old wreck from way back in the mid-20th century is probably one of the most unique hikes in the Sea-to-Sky corridor. It has become a bit of a graffiti museum and decommissioned bike park. It’s only relatively recently that it was on the radar for everyday visitors, thanks to an upgrade to the trails and a bridge over the river. The result is a very photogenic collection of rusted metal amongst some second-growth forest that hardly even knew the train wreck happened. The bridge over the river is a hit, too.

Extra Adventure: Cheakamus Lake

This one is a bit more than a jaunt, but it’s also stroller or wagon-friendly once the kid’s legs get tired (and they will). But this out-and-back walk takes hikers through some of the most majestic old-growth forest that is easily accessible. It’s an 8km drive up a dirt road from the highway at Function Junction, and then another 3km walk in on a well-cleared trail to the lake.

The old-growth forest starts about 1km in. So it’s not for the faint of heart if you have little ones, but well worth it. That’s where the image in this header is from, and we could go on and on about how magical it is there! You can read more about it here.

Toddler-Friendly Trails in Pemberton

One Mile Lake

Right before you enter town from the south side you’ll see One Mile Lake on the right. This lake has a swimming and picnic area for when it’s hot out, or you can walk the boardwalk and trail around the lake for a good kid-friendly loop. This is a popular spot for birders in the morning, so if you have a loud toddler you might not make any friends… however they are usually gone before most kids are up and going.

Nairn Falls

This is a 2km out-and-back hike that isn’t completely flat, so you’ll want to leave the stroller. The scary parts are fenced in, but it’s nature — if it’s raining or your kid likes to move, just keep them in close range. The falls are stunning and the forest is lovely.

Beyond Pemberton

Joffre Lakes Park

This is the iconic spot that blew up on social media about a decade ago. Nowadays you need a reservation to get there, but it’s well worth it. Whether you just hang out at the first lake or are ambitious enough to get to the third, it’s well worth the drive. The drive itself is worth the effort to get out of cell phone range and into a mountain pass of iconic beauty. The one-hour journey from Pemberton to Joffre Lakes takes you up and into a pass that offers jaw-dropping vistas at every bend in the road, rising over 1000m in a matter of 15 minutes. You will get that iconic shot of the turquoise lake with rocky alpine backdrop within 30 seconds of the parking lot… or you can do the hour-and-a-half hike to get right up close and personal with the landscape at lake three.

The only time we’ve been there as a family was in the winter… time to go back!

Map of the Best Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea to Sky

The Journey Begins

These zones are really just scratching the surface of where you can hike with a toddler in the Sea to Sky. But it sure is a good start. Checking all of these off your list will give weeks of enjoyment. By then, your family might be ready for a bit more challenge.

See you out on the trails!

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May 6, 2026
Every Day is Earth Day

Can we just go ahead and declare everyday as Earth Day? Our beautiful home that homes us all, cares for the diversity of the animals, mammals, insects, humanity. She gives without asking for anything in return, provides the plants that nourish us, the beauty that sparks our imagination and feeds our soul. She cares deeply, and she hasn’t given up on us yet.

Photos by Steve Andrews

Not a day passes where I don’t think about my personal impact, and now, as a mother, our entire family’s. With two extra people in tow, I’m hyper-aware of the essentials required to keep us healthy and safe (gosh, what happens when they become ravenous teenagers?!). But at what point do “essentials” become simple desires for more in this commercial paradise? When do our untamed desires of today become the burden of our children’s tomorrow?

When do our untamed desires of today become the burden of our children’s tomorrow?

Many would say it’s already too late, but we need to hold onto hope. Now, more than ever, we are trying to cull our spending and hone in on true necessity. In my humble opinion, less is certainly more.

We do our best to reward our children with experiences vs things. To get their developing brains excited with time outside, going to the park, the beach, the mountains, the pump track, the slopes. When birthdays come along, I accept donations from neighbours, hand me downs from friends and family, and sometimes buy things from local kids consignment and/or second-hand shops and/or fb Marketplace (and I’m all ears for a good alternative ). If we need to buy something new, we do our research to support companies that share our bottom line – earth first.

Where’s Captain Planet When You Need Him?

This makes me think of the 80/90’s campaigns geared towards kids, to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. This one is worth a watch. It worked, it’s ingrained in me, and I sure hope kids are learning the same today. Although, with convenience culture at the forefront, acting on impulse with a touch of a button, with same day delivery trucks running rampant about the neighbourhood (the city, the country, the continent, the world(!), it may not be so.

Can we cancel Amazon already? What would Bill and Ted, Socrates and Joan of Arc think of all this? Bogus, heineous! Most non-triumphant. Morally and for the longevity of our loving planet and our children, quit these companies that we know are run by inhumane, royal ugly dudes!! Okay, rant over.

He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature.

Socrates

Part of the Solution

Once things that can’t be passed down have collected enough dust in our garage, we do our best to research how to recycle responsibly. Carseats for example, seems bonkers that they have such a short expiration, but we need to keep our children safe, I get it. All that plastic, polyester, foam and metal, ugh, it hurts to think of how many are sitting in landfills. Look out for specialized local recycling programs which separate plastic, metal, and fabric components.

The “Ugh” of expiring car seats

Check with your local municipality for community zero-waste recycling events that may accept car seats. Also, some retailers offer trade-in programs where you can bring back old car seats for recycling when buying a new one. You can also manually disassemble the seat, removing fabric, padding, and metal buckles to dispose of the components separately, the plastic shell is often recyclable.

I know how busy we all are as parents, but efforts must be made! Markers that have gone dry? Save them up and bring them into Staples where they’ll recycle them for you.

Get creative

Also, with clothes that have been stained and have lost their capacity to be passed down, I use them for cleaning rags. I have also just dusted off my sewing machine, brushed up on my sewing skills (with a local class close to home) and am thinking of using the well loved collection to make bunting for the kids birthday decorations, to make custom blankets/quilts/duvet covers, doll clothes, you name it! Bring on the creativity.

Many communities have sharing libraries. We used to live in Whistler, and the tool library that they had, housed out of my fave thrift shop maybe ever, the Whistler Re-Use it Centre, was clutch.

Our rainy-day sanctuary

It’s safe to say that our kids most loved physical items are books. We spend many-a-rainy-days here in the Pacific Northwest at our local library, the kids love it, and there’s usually story time and different gatherings that help to feel immersed in our community. We also make a point when travelling to search out libraries for that community connection along with fun books to borrow.

Companies we can get behind

There are many responsible companies that are creating their own way, putting earth at the forefront of their decision making. Patagonia is an obvious example, as a certified B Corp and founding member of 1% for the Planet, its hefty investments into environmental organizations and generating of awareness through it’s content creation and film work is commendable. If other companies could follow suit with their unique ownership structure, declaring Earth as its only shareholder, with profits paid as dividends to protect the planet, the earth would certainly be a better place for future generations. Patagonia has a Worn Wear program that allows you to buy and trade used namesake gear, they’ll even repair your gear, no questions asked. They have created fabrics made from ocean waste, recycled and natural materials.

Outerknown, a purpose-driven surf brand built on transparency, circular design and fair labour is another brand to take notice. I also love our local Parade Organics for kids and mama matching cozy jammies.

Earth Day deals

And if you must buy something new this Earth Day, think of these good to do/earth companies. We love Jungmaven, known for using the incredibly resilient natural sustainable fibre of Hemp in all its goods, they’re offering 20% off everything until Sunday with code EARTH2026, and if you want $30 off your first order, use this link (that in turn helps us 😁 ).

One of our absolute favourite brands is PAKA, for so many reasons, primarily the thought and due diligence they take to make quality, natural fibre goods whilst taking care of their communities, the alpaca’s and the planet. This Earth Day, PAKA is offering 20% off sitewide on orders over $150, giving consumers an opportunity to experience the performance and sustainability of natural fibers firsthand.

When in doubt, get out.

As our children grow, we will continue to prioritize getting their dopamine hits from the outdoors, teaching them to wear their badges of dirt under their fingernails and bruises and scrapes on their knees with pride. More time spent outside equals more time caring about what matters most. Nothing, absolutely nada, can ever top the feeling that comes from being immersed in the absolute wonder and magic of the outdoors.

me and my girl 😉

April 21, 2026
Are Balance Bikes Worth It? Our Family’s Yearlong Strider Review
The first time I saw a Strider Balance Bike I had to do a double-take. It was several years ago but the memory is still vivid. Here was this little kid cruising the bike path as if they owned the place. The amount of confidence and joy on this kid’s face was contagious. I had to cheer him on.

I immediately got jealous. Why weren’t these things invented 20 years earlier? I first learned how to bike without training wheels at five years old. But the balance bike is a whole new level of progression—far better than what training wheels can accomplish.

As soon as we had kids, I knew that a balance bike was in their future. We got our daughter a well-loved one off of Marketplace. The learning curve was gradual at first, until it clicked for her. Once she figured it out, she was off to the races.

What Makes Strider Balance Bikes So Special?

Being the first in the game has a ton of advantages. Since 2007, Strider has sold over 2 million balance bikes, meaning they have had many years and opportunities to get the design down. The result is a durable, reliable balance bike that can withstand the abuse that a toddler will give it.

Being an independent company also has its benefits. Ryan McFarland started the company with the simple goal of trying to get his son on a bike as soon as possible, but not finding anything adequate in the market. As the company grew and countless children caught the riding bug, the core mission to help young riders never wavered. Nowadays Strider has programs around the world that help riders of all ages learn how to ride a bike.

Strider also provides a ton of free learning resources to help make the experience as smooth as possible. Some of the tips like “support the child, not the bike” went a long way toward a smooth progression for your youngest. After reading through some of the tips, it became clear that this company truly did care about helping children ride a bike as soon as possible.

Our Kids’ Journey With Strider

First Strides

Our daughter got her first Strider balance bike from Marketplace. The tire treads were nearly worn down but the bike still worked like a charm. In retrospect we could have gotten her some new wheels but she didn’t seem to mind—one great advantage of the plastic wheels over rubber tires is their longevity. Being just under two years old, she didn’t seem to mind that the bike had been well-loved by a few other kids and passed down the line.

yes we know, no shoes or helmet… but she was taking it super easy, I promise!

At first she was hesitant, and would only pick up the bike for a minute or two. Then I began to push her uphill and guide her around some corners, which may have instilled some bad habits to rely on me. But eventually, her time on the bike unassisted got longer. The next spring she got a new Strider Pro, and well… the story is still being written but so far, it’s safe to say that she loves it.

Our son got his bike at around 9 months. The rocking base attachment is the perfect tool to acclimate a child to riding a bike in a safe yet fun manner. It was wild how quickly he caught onto the usage, but perhaps that’s why rocking horses have been a staple of any playroom for at least two centuries. It was the perfect introduction to mounting the bike unassisted, which noticeably happened much faster than our daughter who learned without the rocking base.

Gaining Confidence (Learning to Stride)

For our daughter, the big breakthrough came when I would walk her to daycare while she rode the bike. We live on a large hill with a steady grade all the way down to daycare, a distance of about 600m. At first I was hesitant to set my daughter loose on such a long descent until realizing that it was actually perfect.

She instinctively knew her limits. She also knew that at any time, she could put her feet down to stop. Never once did I see her lift her feet long enough to lose control. Maybe she’s an anomaly and it goes without saying, every kid is different—don’t set your child loose on a long hill on this advice alone. But for her, in this circumstance… she nailed it.

The incline allows for momentum without the child needing to push themselves forward. It gave our daughter the ability to coast without supplying the power. It soon became obvious that it was the major difference compared to a flat surface, which all of us parents gravitate to—or I suppose I can only speak for myself, but that was certainly my instinct.

Now the pump track is where she asks to go when we have a free afternoon. It felt intimidating as a parent to set her loose around bigger kids and undulating terrain, but she never seemed scared. I have to remind myself that at that age, fear is not as prevalent as we adults allow into our lives. And in all reality, it’s one of the safest places for a kid to learn. The downslope is never too long, so the speed she carries with gravity ends pretty quick. It also gives her a more 3D balance profile than simply riding on flat ground. And the results speak for themselves:

Our Son’s Introduction To Strider

Our son was 9 months when his Strider Sport arrived at the door. Initially I was thinking we might hold off for a bit until he started walking. But with the removable rocking base that came with the bike, he had a new toy for the living room—one that allowed him a soft introduction to learning how to mount a bike.

First time on the bike was a bit of an investigation… patience is key for the first few months.

The progression was slow, at first. He would size up the bike for a moment, maybe rock it around, and then move on to the next shiny object. But then he began to mount it. Eventually he started rocking back and forth, and I could see he was starting to get it with regards to staying upright. By the time he could walk, he was already really comfortable on the bike.

Once we removed the base, he had enough familiarity to take some steps with the bike. And that’s where he is now. He will take a few steps, but is yet to use his momentum to go forward. But he’s a million times better than if he didn’t have the base to start with. Now he’s gaining confidence each time he goes out. Having a big sister show him the way is a big bonus, and one I don’t take for granted. I’m already seeing how much faster his learning curve is with
- Starting earlier than his sister
- Having the rocking base
- Having a sibling to look up to
Now, he’s not even two and gets excited each time we go out. His coordination is spotty even just walking, but with the bike between his legs he’s figuring it out better than I could ever have imagined.

The Durability of Strider Balance Bikes

Not having tested other balance bike brands (yet), I can’t speak to the durability of others and whether or not the Strider is better or worse than others. What I can say, though, is that Strider bikes are pretty bomb-proof (Disclaimer: not literally, of course).

Our daughter has put her two bikes through the paces and it still rides perfect. It’s what you need in a bike for a toddler, and something I wish was present in other aspects of raising little ones! But through all the drags, hops, drops, crashes, and scrapes, the bikes have performed well. Who knows how long the secondhand bike had been going before she had it (and subsequently passed on to a neighbour) but the bike always performed well, despite some well-loved wear present.

The only real wear and tear was the tread on the tires. But since they are made of a solid plastic and not soft rubber… no inflation/deflation issues! Even when the tread is worn down there is plenty of wheel left for someone who is just getting started.

A little bit of scratching, but no worse for wear! P.S. These bikes tie to the back of a cargo bike really well.

Strider Bike as a Hand-Me-Down

The durability of these Strider bikes means they can be passed down for many years to come. Whether you sell it online for someone who can’t afford it new, or simply donate it to someone deserving, the fact that the bikes have parts that last. So many kids will get to learn how to ride a bike before a Strider reaches the end of its life. When you think of it that way, it’s exciting to realize how many kids’ lives will be impacted with a single purchase.

Final Thoughts

Balance bikes truly are a game changer for how soon a kid can learn how to ride a bike. Balance is the hard part in learning, momentum comes second and for the first time someone figured it out. Strider has been leading the way for nearly 20 years and both us parents and our kids are thrilled with the results so far. With the bikes about to enter their second year in our family, they show no signs of needing replacement, and I’m so stoked to see a passion of mine transition to the next generation.

I’ve dealt with a lot of companies over the years of reviewing gear for this site and others, and in all the interactions I’ve had with employees and what I’ve heard from others online is that they are one of the good guys when it comes to developing a product and bringing it to the market.

What has resulted is nothing short of revolutionary, adding years of bike riding to a childhood and some early core memories on a bike. True it may not be for everyone. But since kids are a product of their environment, if you’re stoked on riding bikes, chances are that they will be too. This year we take our oldest to the trails and the youngest on his way to following his sister around as quickly as possible. It will be a fun journey, and I’m sure there will be an update in here at some point!

Until then, you can consider this our whole-hearted recommendation for your toddler shredder-to-be.

See more on the Strider website

One step at a time… but please stop growing so fast!

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January 12, 2026
Bringing Kids To Burning Man: Our Guide To A Successful Burn
Burning Man With Babies Is No Joke

The Burn is an inhospitable place on a good day, and downright life-threatening on a bad one. Having been to four burns in the past, I thought it would be a great idea to bring our daughter there to celebrate her first birthday. My partner was into checking it out but we got a surprise a few weeks before heading to Black Rock City that changed everything.

She was pregnant.

Again.

Baby number two on the way, and we were planning a month-long road trip culminating in Black Rock City. We found out only days before leaving and my partner ended up somehow saying yes to continuing on.

For that (and many other reasons), I love her so much. She put up with it for the entire month and it only got worse. Our daughter’s birthday ended up being the marquee rainstorm, but more on that later.

I don’t care how young she was… She’s going to remember it.

It’s certainly not the way most people do Burning Man, and I wouldn’t recommend bringing kids if it’s your first burn. It’s such a sensory overload and test of survival skills that you need to at least know what to expect to be able to give your kids a comfortable existence.

For as inhospitable as the Black Rock desert is, nobody should risk that with their kids. In many ways it’s an ultimate test of one’s parenting skills, and the willpower to put them first amongst a sea of distraction and temptation. It certainly made for a much different burn than the other four times I’d been.

The Camp Setup

Ideally you have an RV, but that gets expensive really quick. So if you’re adventurous (and let’s face it, why else would you be spending your time reading a blog post on Excellent Family Adventurous if you didn’t identify so), you can do it in a tent.

One such family showed up in a Honda Accord and had a tiny nylon tent parked behind it, and they not only survived the week, but both dad and his daughter were beaming from what fun they had. And on the other end of the spectrum there were more than a few camps that looked like they had been doing it for a few years. So, Ideally, this is up to you.

What to Pack for Burning Man

You can have an entire post dedicated to what to pack for Burning Man if you have kids, and perhaps, someday, we will. But for now let’s just go through a few essentials:
- Kodiak Tent
- Kitchen Tent: Either a Kodiak utility tent (like we had) or a Costco Carport (which our neighbours had, and saved us all from boredom in the rainstorm)
- Water Jug + 40 oz water bottles + water reservoir for your backpack
- Potty: for the ladies, a kid’s potty was a lifesaver.
- Folding table
- Cooler
- 2-burner stove, pot, pan, knife,
- propane
- all kinds of food: Another blog post we could easily do someday
- Sunscreen
- Bike + attachment for kids
Sleep Schedule

With so much happening day and night, it’s hard to find a sleep routine that makes sense. We found ourselves letting our little one stay up a bit later than usual to take in the city lights and sounds, which led to sleeping in a bit more and longer afternoon naps. Everyone and every kid is different of course, but we found this to make the most sense instead of being up all day and sleeping all night… if you miss out on Burning Man at night you’re really missing a ton of what it’s all about.

The Kidsville Community

We camped in Kidsville, a dedicated section for burners under 18. It’s like a little mini burn inside the big burn. I was jealous of the kids who are regulars for having this be a staple of childhood. It would be paradise to an impressionable mind.

The village is sectioned off into quadrants based on age. Our little one was in the 0-5 age category and thus we were placed in the “dingo bait” quad. Most places around Black Rock City have incessant noise, and Dingo Bait was no different… although instead of techno beats we were kept up at night by incessant crying cascading from one camp to another.

The interactivity of the camps is what makes Black Rock City unique. “Radical Inclusion” is one of the hallmark principles for the citizens to abide by, and the camps people offer are a key example of this. Some had food on offer, others ice cream, and some were just a fun place to play in a giant pit of balls or stuffed animals. It really is one of the hallmark aspects of Burning Man that sets it apart from anything else.

Art

The art is unlike anything else in this world. People come from all over to erect big structures, play music, and make an otherwise inhospitable atmosphere beautiful. The best part of it all, is that it’s interactive. Nowhere do people just sit and observe. All of the art is (mostly) climbable and has an element that encourages people around to participate and co-create. It’s one of the best ways to get kids to feel a part of the process.

Deep Playa is where the larger-than-life art lives, and is worth the journey out there. But if packing up the kids for a jaunt into the open expanse is ovewhelming, fear not, for there are art cars that are happy to bring you along for the ride, and they themselves are works of art. They come in all shapes and sizes, and can fit a few people or dozens. Some are janky, others ornate… as diverse as the burners who make them.

A Giraffe moving sculpture comes to say hello at Kidsville.

Final Thoughts

Burning man truly is for everyone. It will push you to your limits and make you question why you came in more ways than you even knew possible.

Despite biblical rains, we experienced a new side of the community that took away the urge to explore the vastness and get down to neighbourhood vibes. Each year is different, and the lessons you learn will spill over into everyday life… if you let it.

So come with an open mind, an appetite for adventure, and a creative personality, and you’ll do just fine. Your kids will gain a whole new perspective, and I’m willing to bet that their grown ups will, too.
November 12, 2024