TRAIL MAGIC
How Mountain Mamas Instill a Love of Nature and Advocate for Its Preservation By Amy Grisak
Memories are made among the fields and forests where rocks, sticks, and flowers are treasures to relish. For the Mountain Mamas of Montana and Colorado, the goal is to instill this magic of nature to the next generation, while working on a larger scale to protect it. Beginning a decade ago, the non-profit organization was the brainchild of Becky Edwards and friends of hers from throughout Montana who wished to create a group where parents could share outdoor experiences. From passing along recommendations on baby carriers that didn’t chafe your hips, to trail conditions, along with organizing local outings, the Mountain Mamas were all about encouraging families to be outdoors. Edwards said, “It is about the shared love of the outdoors. We really focus on those connections, especially in a world that so divided.” Her perspective is when we find common ground, particularly when it comes to raising our children with an appreciation of nature and its preservation, we realize that we’re all on the same page of building a community. We all want to create vibrant homes for our families and enjoying nature is a key component of this goal.
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New Mom on the Trail “I’ve been involved with Mountain Mamas for a few years,” said Sarah Kratzner of Highwood, Montana. “I found them through social media when we moved to Montana a few years ago, and was looking for connections as a new mom. I’ve met many wonderful families.” Creating this love of the outdoors is what many parents strive for, yet taking the first steps can be a daunting process. Kratzner said her family was very outdoororiented during her own childhood. “It’s something ingrained in my whole life and I wanted to raise my kids the same way.”
Be Prepared to Create Fun Memories Adventuring on their own, as well as within a group, Kratzner noted there are a few tips on making the most of any outdoor experience. “Just start small,” she recommended. “The smaller adventures for your kids are just as important for them. Once they experience it, they’re more likely to enjoy the bigger ones.” For your first times on the trail, it’s all about building confidence for you and your children. Choose a familiar area, or go with someone who knows the trail,
