A stroller on Lake Road Trail

[timmus]

I would like to take my four years old on Sawteeth, and use a baby stroller to cut down her mileage. I have never been on that trail, so I don't know if this is possible...

Thanks

 

[AntlerPeak]

Timmus, you can certainly do that as the road to the lake is well graded and used for Ausable club members to drive their vehicles. You most likely won't see many vehicles but it is possible you may encounter several. That would save 3 1/2 miles each way but I'd suggest you consider a shorter hike such as Cascade, Wright, if you must do a high peak.

 

[Doc McPeak]

I would check first, for I am not certain about that. Antler Peak may be right, but bicycles are not allowed, and the gate keeper might not let you go because he could feel it is beyond your four year olds ability. Or is a liability for the members driving down the road.

Are strollers allowed on regular hiking trails?

 

[bubba]

Agree with Doc, I bet you'd be unsuccessful at talking the gatekeep into letting you take in a stroller. Call the Club and find out ahead of time. Sawteeth is a long hike with a four-year old and it has plenty of ladder ups or downs -- depending on how you head in. Hard for you with a child on back and possibly tough for a 4-year old.

 

[AntlerPeak]

I have to weigh in with Doc and Bubba on this one. It is physically possible to do the road with a stroller. But it may not be allowed I had not thought about that aspect of it. It would be best to keep it short for one that age. My daughter was able to climb Wright Peak at four but it was closely monitored and I was ready to turn around at the first indication she had enough. She would not quit and was determined. At each trail junction, point of interest, etc I'd ask is this far enough? She would say "naw I'll go a bit further." I was surprised she reached the summit and even more so when she was able to walk all the way out. I let her set the pace and call the shots. But again it was a short distance though I can't say easy for a four year old.

 

[timmus]

Cascade and Wright are already on my "done" list, and I thought Sawteeth would be the shortest hike from Lake road Tr (4 mi loop from the bridge, if I am right). But I did not know about the ladders...

My daughter is usually very motivated on trails, specially when there is some scramble to do. That is why I can wait to take her with me in the Adirondacks. Anyway. I guess I'll turn to Mt Jo or Poke-O-Moonshine and forget about my "to-do" list !

Thanks everybody,

Timmus

 

[Doc McPeak]

If your daughter has done Cascade and Wright, and the gatekeeper gives you the go-ahead for the stroller, I think it's a doable hike. Of course, the Scenic Trail approach should wait for a bit. And I would advise against anything in this kind of weather. No ladders going up the standard route, which is very tame, except for one or two steep sections near the top. She will love Rainbow Falls. (Just keep a good grip on her!)

 

[Raymond]

Watch out for the bus tearing along the road.

 

[bubba]

Doc is right... I forget that doing Sawteeth can be something other than taking the scenic route. He speaks in sooth.

Not taking the scenic trail??? Well, that'll give you a reason to go back and do this gem again.