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I began hiking with my daughter in the months after COVID-19 became a global threat. She was born in spring 2020 just as the pandemic hit. It was a tough time, one full of isolation and worry.
As a first-time mom, I didn’t have the supports that you would normally expect: no grandparents or aunties/uncles to help out, no postpartum groups to help me find a community of other parents with whom I could share my questions and concerns, celebrate and commiserate, parenting. Everything and nearly everyone was locked down.
I was struggling. I’d survived a traumatic childbirth and was diagnosed with acute stress and PTSD. As part of my recovery, I — an avid hiker — wanted so badly to get back on the trail. The first time I did, I felt like I won the lottery. I kept going, and then brought along my daughter, pushing her up many a hill to cheers from fellow hikers, helping rebuild my confidence.
A few friends asked to join me. From there, word spread: Friends have added friends, and today, our group numbers more than 7,000 members!
I have leaned on this community, especially during my recent cancer journey. I found so much love and support with all of the wonderful friends I have made! My hope is that I can give back as much as you all have to me!
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WHAT'S INCLUDED
Guided adventure, scavenger hunt and educational activities
Digital guide that will make the session EASY for you and your family!
In-person guided outing
All logistics
Explorer checklist (what you need to bring)
Take-home craft and/or treat for the kids
Arts, crafts and science activities
Natural + cultural history, plus lunch + coffee stops + more
YOU'LL ALSO GET ACCESS TO
First-aid kit
Gear to borrow: strollers, carriers, sleeping bags, air pads and wetsuits, $10 an item, from Gear loans. Choose this program as your trip.
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Program Basics
What age group is this program for?
Our Toddle Dawdle + Forest Explorers program is designed for curious young minds from infants to early elementary ages.
How long is each session?
Each class runs 1.5 to 2 hours, giving plenty of time for exploration, learning, and fun!
What's included in each session?
Every session includes circle time, songs, stories, yoga, hikes, sensory play, hands-on activities, nature exploration, science fun and arts + crafts that kids can take home.
Scheduling & Locations
How often do sessions meet?
About every other week, on your group's day: Saturdays for the Silly Slugs, Wednesdays for the Happy Hawks (except state and federal holidays). Each group's dates are listed above.
How many sessions are in a season?
Each season (fall and spring) features 8 sessions, plus one make-up session.
Do you visit the same location each week?
No! We explore a different beautiful Bay Area location each session, discovering hidden gems and new places within a 35-40 minute drive radius from your selected location.
When will I know the schedule and locations?
You can already see the dates for each season on our website, by guide name and location. Specific location details will be shared one month before each season begins.
Registration & Fees
How much does the program cost?
A season (fall or spring, 8 sessions plus a make-up) is $480 for one child, $864 for two and $1,200 for three. A one-time trial drop-in is $65 per child. Registrants are responsible for their own entry, toll, and parking fees.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes! The 2nd child receives a 20% discount and the 3rd child a 30% discount compared to the single child registration fee. They are already included in the price when you choose the number of kids.
Do I have to commit for a full year?
No. You sign up one season at a time, fall or spring.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment is made through the sign-up page on our website.
What to Expect
What should my child wear?
Dress for outdoor adventure! We recommend comfortable clothes that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes with good grip, and layers for changing weather.
Safety & Logistics
How do you ensure safety?
A detailed guide about all logistics for each location will be shared after sign up and one month before the program starts. Our guides bring a first aid kit and are required to undergo CPR training with Red Cross.
Do you provide snacks?
No, we do not provide snacks or drinks in this program.
Do you offer a refund?
The program is non-refundable. However, a one-time credit transfer is available upon request. This allows you to attend a make-up session at any other location in the current season, or apply the value of the session fee toward any hike or day trip organized by Family Adventure Squad, within 3 months from the date of the missed session.
How do I contact you with more questions?
You can reach us at miranda@mommymehiking.com
Getting Started
When does the next season start?
Fall 2026 is under way. Spring 2027 starts Feb. 27 for the Silly Slugs and Feb. 24 for the Happy Hawks.
How do I sign up?
Choose your season and your number of kids on this page, then add the program to your cart.
Can I visit a class before committing?
Upon request, we offer a one-time trial drop-in to any session. If you choose to enroll after your trial, the trial fee will be applied toward your season registration. To book a trial session, choose "One-time trial drop-in" as the season on this page.
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Focus only on the current semester at a time; no need to commit to one year.
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Sessions planned for parents to talk about challenges that are not only about parenting but also other topics, like back-to-work networking, guest speakers and more.
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Meet the same families at each session and build community with those learning the same things and facing the same challenges. Make memories to last a lifetime.
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Walking, climbing, splashing and running enhances gross motor skills while making nature art and sensory play will focus on fine motor development.
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From learning new words to observing and exploring, from focus to balance, little ones will unlock more potential of their growing brains. Critical thinking, problem solving, social and emotional growth — all start early.
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Try fun science experiments, learn about nature’s ecology, make fun art that encourages logical thinking and more.
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Explore textures, sizes, shapes and more while breathing in fresh air that stimulates all five senses of little minds (and for grown ups, too)!
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Littles learn how to care for the environment, observe seasons and their outdoor bounties, and instill a love for the planet at an early age. We will explore forests through all the seasons and learn about the cycle of life from spring to winter.
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Littles learn about animals, flowers, trees, birds and more! Watch their eyes light up when they spot something from their books in real life. We add fun and educational flashcards to keep enrichment ongoing after families go home.
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Saratoga, Los Gatos, Campbell, Los Altos, Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Mateo
SATURDAYS: 9:30 - 11:30 AM
FALL: Aug 29, Sep 19 & 26, Oct 10 & 24, Nov 14 & 21, Dec 5. Make-up session: Dec. 12
SPRING: Feb 27, Mar 6 & 20, Apr 3 & 17, May 1 & 15, Jun 5. Make-up session: May 22
2nd child: 20% off / 3rd child: 30% off
Infants under 12 months are FREE when joining a sibling!