Last week we checked out Edgewood Park for a spot of hiking. The Edgewood trails are great for summer as most of them just wind through shady forests, and those that do emerge into the upper grasslands usually have a nice breeze (as well as wonderful views).
Tree Tunnel
The paths are quite steep and windy which my kids enjoy, but this is definitely a park for the more serious hiking family. You do have to put in some work to get above the tree line and enjoy the views. The preserve works for us on those days when my toddler is in an easy-going mood and is happy to meander around. On those days when he needs a destination, and he needs to get to it quickly, I usually choose another park. I no longer take the double jog stroller–pushing that up to the upper meadows last spring was serious work–but you can make it up with a single jog stroller easily enough if you don’t mind some steep inclines.
Other than the trails, this preserve has a couple of nice features for pre-school age kids. There are numerous rocky areas for scrambling and lizard spotting, and a big, old, short drainage tunnel which is fun to play in during the summer months.
- Are you in there?
Edgewood preserve has nicer amenities than most. Just past the lower car park, a little way up the hill, there are toilets and bathrooms and a shady picnic area by a field where toddlers can let off steam. My only complaint about Edgewood is the parking. The two car parks are tiny and usually full, which means having to park on Edgewood Road and loading and unloading toddlers into heavy traffic. Afternoons seem slightly better than mornings for grabbing a spot.
The Outdoors Parent 
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