Are there any baby strollers suitable for trails?
OK, so jogging on the trail with a baby isn't safe. But, I would like to go backpacking after our baby is born. Are there any all-terrain strollers suitable for trails? I know there are baby carriers to wear, but dad still has to carry the rest of the gear, doesn't he? M. Dittman Cleveland, Tennessee
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
As a matter of fact, there are strollers that are suitable for manynot alltrails. They’re not at all unlike the ones you see at the shopping mall, but typically are heavier-duty and more stable. An example: Kelty’s Joyrider ($320). It has a sturdy aluminum frame, a full hood for protection from sun or rain, and tall, easy-rolling wheels. A bicycle-style caliper brake and full harness for the occupant enhance safety. There’s even room for two water bottles, although not much else.
A company called Baby Jogger makes a similar stroller called the Baby Jogger 3 ($340). Its wheels are a little taller than the Joyrider’s, offering better maneuverability on rough terrain. Shock absorbers, lots of storage pockets, and slightly higher weight capacity than the Joyrider make it a good choice as well.
Both of these joggers are of tricycle design, so will be narrow enough for decent trails. But I don’t think you’d enjoy maneuvering them over a trail with even a few rocks and roots, let alone steep, rough stretches or rocky streambeds. Then there’s the weight: 25 to 30 pounds for the contraption, plus baby, plus pack. That could easily result in a load of 80 pounds or more. Oof. Still, you could make it work, and you’ll get a helluva good workout!