Hiking in the Dolomites

We’ve also been looking at the dolomites for next spring/summer. We’ve been trying to figure out if there is a hut to hut route that’s all private rooms? We’ve not gone to the dolomites, but lots of hiking in Banff national park. We haven’t had any issues with altitude though we’ve only gone up to ~2500m with the kids and always slept at below 2000m. Our main concern with a multi-day hike is that you’d need to push on in poor weather or if everyone isn’t feeling well. We also find that the hiking carrier reduces the amount of space we have to pack items. I’d also think about the sleeping arrangement. You’ll all be miserable if your baby’s not sleeping. Maybe try an overnight hike in the Peak District or similar first?

Thanks, @Kayla, really good points. We've also been thinking about private rooms and sleeping arrangements and think we've found a route that would be manageable and where we can book the huts individually (we contacted a couple of companies who didn't cater to children so young, hence our wobbling...). Yes, we're also concerned about the pushing on in bad weather. It's a tough one!

I’m due in February and my partner and I are hikers too. I was wondering what carrier you use? We would like to buy for upcoming trips. At what age do you think they’re happy in it and it’s doable. We’ve done a multi day hike in the dolomites before and we found that most refugios had private rooms with like 1 bunk bed. Bad weather could be an issue. But I don’t think worry about altitude too much, if you start feeling a bit wobbly or babe looks a bit sickie, just come down. It’s a magical place I’m sure it will be absolutely incredible.

@Robyn We used a buckle carrier until 6 months, and then switch to a backpack carrier once they’re able to sit unsupported. The backpack is much better for weather protection (sun, wind, rain), and being able to see your feet! We use a ergobaby mesh omni now, we started with a babybjorn but their legs hang down lower which was terrible for going uphill. They also aren’t as ergonomic for baby’s hips. For a backpack we use an osprey poco plus. I’ve been noticing more deuter’s on trails recently though. They go to an older age but have way less storage. As to when baby’s ready, anytime really. We did our wainright at 4 weeks old, an easy 1 hr walk while my husband wore baby. I found my own recovery and learning to care for baby was the real limitation. Once they’re 4 months old they’re a bit easier to care for (bigger breaks in between feeds & nappy changes, more sleep at night) Once you’re recovered postpartum hiking is pretty easy until they’re 2ish.