They’re more than storybook characters, they’re reflections of the emotions, growth, and values that guide every family adventure. Through Maple, Chesley, and Winslow, wonder takes shape, curiosity finds a voice, and the lessons we hope our children carry home come to life.
The Story of the Trio
As parents, we’re the architects of our children’s experiences, shaping the memories that will one day define their childhood. In a world that rarely slows down, time in nature offers a gentler, more intentional way to connect and build family memories.
I wanted to bring into focus the emotional journey we face as we shape those moments and I realized that for me, three emotions were always present outdoors: wonder, curiosity, and reflection. I hadn’t meant to create characters, but I realized those feelings deserved voices, and the Trailside Trio emerged naturally, born from the idea that these emotions could be best understood – and felt – when given their own voices.
Meet the Trailside Trio
These three emotions – wonder, curiosity, and reflection – live in all of us. We see them mirrored in our children every time they stop to notice, to ask, or to leap without hesitation. The characters of the Trailside Trio brings these shared qualities to life, helping families experience them more fully together.
Maple the Moose
Reflection
Maple is the heart of the trail — calm, steady, and thoughtful. She’s the one who pauses to take it all in, reminding us to notice the hush between the wind and the trees. For her, every step is a chance to reflect on the beauty of the world, on the people beside us, and on the memories we’re creating as we go.
Chesley the Chipmunk
Curiosity
Chesley sees the world as one big question waiting to be answered. With his trusty field guide and glasses, he’s always eager to understand how things work and why they matter. He reminds us that curiosity isn’t just about learning — it’s about paying attention, asking questions, and seeing the extraordinary hidden in the everyday.
Winslow the Wood Frog
Wonder
Winslow is pure enthusiasm — the spark that makes puddle jumps and firefly chases feel like magic. He’s the joyful reminder that we don’t have to go far to find something amazing. Through his eyes, every adventure becomes a celebration of what it means to be fully present, wide-eyed, and alive in the moment.
Trailside Trio in the Wild
You’ll spot Maple, Chesley, and Winslow throughout the trails of Paddles and Packs. Sometimes they pop up in Wild Wonders to share a fun fact, other times they wander into Little Sparks to help families slow down and notice something beautiful. Each time they appear, it’s a reminder that learning, reflection, and wonder live within every outdoor moment — and that the best adventures are the ones you share.
🌿 Maple in Little Sparks
Guiding parents to pause, breathe, and find stillness in the small moments that make family adventures meaningful.
Read the Feature →🔍 Chesley in Wild Wonders
Sharing curious insights about the natural world — from fireflies to forests — and sparking kids’ love of discovery.
Explore Wild Wonders →💦 Winslow in Microadventure Mondays
Inspiring families to leap into new experiences and find joy in spontaneous, low-pressure outdoor play.
Find the Adventure →Final Thoughts
The Trailside Trio began as a way to bring emotion into focus — to make the invisible visible in every outdoor moment.
Maple, Chesley, and Winslow aren’t just characters; they’re reminders of the values at the heart of Paddles and Packs. Through them, reflection becomes habit, curiosity becomes connection, and wonder becomes the spark that keeps families exploring together.
Wherever they appear — in Wild Wonders, Little Sparks, or your own backyard adventures — their purpose is the same: to help families slow down, notice more, and carry those moments home.
