Bike/Trike Hike

The first field trip of the year is a Carmel tradition—the Bike/Trike Hike! It’s a day to get outside, move together, build confidence, and enjoy being part of the school community.

Students begin at a local park and head out in three groups based on age and riding ability. Our youngest students travel about a mile by bike, scooter, or on foot. The middle group rides approximately four miles, while our oldest students take on a 17-mile ride that gives them a little more independence and a chance to challenge themselves.

But the Bike/Trike Hike is about much more than how far students travel. Riding together teaches children to look out for one another, stay aware of the group, and adjust their pace for others. Faster riders practice patience alongside slower riders, students encourage one another when the ride gets challenging, and they learn that getting there together matters more than getting there first.

That sense of responsibility continues throughout the day. When the middle group returns, they help with our youngest students, giving them an opportunity to take on a leadership role and contribute to the larger Carmel community.

After the rides, everyone comes back together at the park. We grill lunch while the students spend the rest of the day outside playing, exploring, relaxing, and enjoying time with friends.

It’s a simple Carmel tradition that brings together so much of what we value: time outdoors, independence, responsibility, patience, community, and plenty of room to play.