You give up a lot of things when you’re pregnant and postpartum. It can be difficult to give such a huge part of yourself to bring a new life into the world. Physical and mental challenges are often a part of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. However, lots of moms have found it helpful to get out of the house and into nature when possible. If you’re looking to reconnect with nature or if you’re already an avid hiker, here are three hikes in the Albuquerque area that are great for pregnant and postpartum moms.
Travertine Falls
Located in the Sandia Mountains, this hike is beautiful and brief. It’s perfect for the whole family! It’s a mile round trip, and if you’re lucky, the trail will end in a waterfall! (It depends on the time of year and the amount of rainfall). But there is still a cool cave at the end. This hike can be rocky, so make sure you wear sturdy shoes. Most of the hike is shaded and the views are wonderful. If you’re looking for more hikes and activities in the East Mountains, check out this guide.
Fourth of July Trail
The Fourth of July Trail is a popular one, especially in the fall. The leaves changing colors are beautiful especially if you’re searching for the perfect fall vibe. This trail is in the Cibola National Forest. The entirety of this trail is 4.6 miles, but you can choose how far to hike up the trail. The paths are wide enough that they can be done as leisurely as you want. This trail is also kid and dog friendly! (Just make sure you bring a leash.)
The Volcanoes Trail
This trailhead is next to the Petroglyph National Monument, and it’s open year-round. This hike is great for running, biking, and walking. The round trip is 3.2 miles and takes just over an hour to complete on average. The volcanoes provide a unique experience and many hikers report lots of lizards which is a hit with the kids! There’s not a lot of shade, so make sure you stock up on sunscreen (even when you’re hiking during the fall!).
Being outdoors and exercising is a good habit, but it definitely can be daunting. If you’re excited but nervous about what to bring or where to start, check out this guide. There’s no rush–take your time and find your footing. And remember, “Nature doesn’t hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” You got this mama!
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
