Adventuring with Kids

It’s 9 AM. I’ve been awake with my toddler for three hours already, but most of the world is still sleeping. Parents / caregivers – sound familiar? Today is my son’s first day skiing at Whistler Blackcomb. My husband and I likely have as many butterflies as he does. It feels like a race day or the start of a big backcountry mission, but in reality, we’re headed for the Magic Carpet, a beginner run at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.

Fast forward through a few tears, lots of giggling, and many, many gummy bears later – day one was a success. If you had told me I’d get this level of glow and endorphins from a visit to the bunny slopes before having my little one, I’m not sure I would have believed you.

I love exploring Whistler and the surrounding Sea to Sky region, and as a parent of a young child, I’ll admit – it isn’t easy to keep getting out there with kids in tow. It’s not exactly what you see on Instagram. But the rewards are just as fulfilling as a big, pre-kids adventure day – just different.

I sat down with some spirited Whistler parents to round up practical advice and inspiration for those wondering how to continue adventuring as a family. Meet Sara Niblock, a kinesiologist and founder of Mountain Mom Strong; Rich Grenfell, a Whistler RE/MAX real estate agent; and Liz Francis, a principal with Sendpoint Project Management – all with adventurous kids under the age of six.

How Adventure Changes After Kids

Shifting Priorities

The biggest change these parents noted is that adjusting expectations makes getting outdoors totally possible and wildly rewarding.

“My time outside has shifted from the macro to the micro,” says Liz. “I used to set really big adventure goals, but when I’m out with my son, our hikes are much slower yet just as enjoyable because we’re paying attention to things I would have missed before; little flowers, mushrooms, or cool rock formations captivate us. I can still set big objectives; they just need to be on my own time without the family.”

Redefining Adventure

It’s important to appreciate different types of outdoor experiences, like trading backcountry trips for stroller-friendly trails or opting for a Lost Lake family bike ride instead of a solo lap on Whistler’s Westside. Remember, this phase is temporary. Sara made a great analogy about this time in our lives as parents…

“Think about your life in terms of seasons – pregnancy, early postpartum, crawling babies and beyond. Each season offers different ways to stay active and get outside. No one season lasts forever, and no two seasons are the same. Take care of yourself physically and mentally so you can keep up with your kids. Don’t put pressure on yourself to do activities at the same intensity when your little one is still so dependent on you.”

Planning & Logistics

Parents quickly become experts in planning and gear selection. Setting kids up with quality gear and plenty of snacks can make or break an adventure. It’s difficult to overplan and all parents suggested leaving an open window (or exit strategy) to bail on adventures if your little one isn’t feeling it. From a planning perspective, Rich emphasizes the power of local knowledge to ensure a smooth day.

“My favourite biking spot with my three-year-old daughter, Cleo, is to park at the bottom of Lorimer Road and ride to Meadow Park, where we play at the playground,” says Rich. “Knowing the trail network is key –I always look for gentle terrain and aim to have a destination for our adventures. It keeps things light and fun. Animating journeys by searching for bear signs and playing games helps too.

In winter, for skiing, I park on Blackcomb and ski over to the gondola to save on walking. The Magic Castle on Blackcomb and the Tree Fort on Whistler are also great places to take a break and have fun on the mountain.”

The Adjustments Parents Make

The Gear Factor

Adventures take more time, require more gear and need extra preparation. Once parents accept these simple truths, outdoor experiences become much more enjoyable. Spending a bit extra on the right gear goes a long way in extending adventures. Sara recommends proper clothing for the weather.

“We live in the mountains and a rainforest – getting out can get challenging when kids are easily cold or wet. Proper protection for high-impact sports like biking and skiing is also important. High-end gear is worth it and holds value. It can get costly to be an adventure family, so my best advice is to buy used.”

Mindset Shifts

One of the biggest takeaways is accepting that adventures look different now but are still meaningful. All the parents agreed that just getting outside – even when the whole family was tired—brightened everyone’s mood.

“Lower expectations. Know that it pays off. Every little bit is worth it,” says Sara. “Sometimes, I’m in a tough spot and feel like tantrums are endless, but I know that it passes. It’s always worth it to go outside. Being stuck inside with a toddler is way worse.”

Embracing Flexibility

Patience and adjusting expectations are key.

“Do what brings you joy first and foremost,” explains Liz. “Don’t put so many expectations on specific objectives for family adventures. We set the bar low – not because things aren’t worth it, but because they’re challenging. We need to give ourselves grace and celebrate all the wins, no matter how small.

I can’t just put my son in a backpack and do the same outdoor adventures I did before he was born. I’m okay with that. But I ask myself, does it make me happy and does it get me outside?’ If I’ve hit those goals, then I call it a successful day. He’s only little once.”

Carving Out Time for Personal Adventure

The Importance of Solo or Partner Adventures

Parents still need their own outdoor time – both as individuals and as a couple. It allows them to return to their families refreshed and fulfilled. I’m my best version of myself and a better parent when I’ve been able to exercise and do the things I love outside. Rich and his family arrange their schedules so that he has a dedicated day with his daughter and a pocket of time most days to get out for exercise solo as well.

“It gives me a day to ski or bike with my daughter, which is awesome. I also make space to go out for shorter, solo adventures later in the week. They don’t compete, solo time and time with family. I love both separately and equally. Just as much fun. But I need both to feel fulfilled.”

Finding Balance

Balance may not be fully achievable, but striving for it often lands everyone in a good place. All the parents I interviewed agreed that with open communication, families can manage schedules, trade responsibilities and build support systems that help them stay active and engaged in the outdoors.

“Everything adds up and matters for parents,” says Sara from her fitness-based perspective. “Don’t let the time crunch get in the way. You might think you need an hour for a workout, but twenty minutes can be enough. It’s all about consistency.”

Overcoming Barriers

When we become parents, our already busy schedules get even tighter. It’s common to feel guilt about indulging in personal pursuits, and societal expectations can add to the pressure. But Rich, along with the other parents I spoke to, emphasized that it’s critical for mental health.

“The flexibility of my profession and the forward-planning I do with my partner, allow us to find pockets of time to recharge outside. Getting out for exercise in the mountains is important to my well-being; it allows me to provide undivided attention and patience when I return to my role as a dad.”

Final Thoughts & Encouragement

Adventure doesn’t end after kids, it evolves. Save the big missions for your personal pursuits when you can carve out alone time. As for family adventures, embrace the journey, find what makes everyone happy and create lifelong outdoor memories with your children. The time when kids are young is fleeting, so take pictures, document cute moments and keep getting outside.