About Us

Foothills Little Explorers was founded in March 2023 by Carley Smith and Cassidy Harrison. Two moms on a mission to preserve their children’s childhood, explore the area they live in, and meet like-minded families.

Carley, originally from San Jose, CA, graduated from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development with a Preparation for Teaching. She taught 2nd-4th grade for 5 years in San Jose, CA and Morganton, NC before resigning to become a stay-at-home mom. Carley moved back to her husband’s hometown of Morganton, NC in July 2018.

Cassidy, originally from Marietta, Georgia, graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in Collaborative Teacher Special Education. She taught grades 3-5 in New Orleans, Louisiana for 8 years before resigning to become a stay-at-home mom. Cassidy relocated to Morganton, NC with her husband and two boys in May 2022.

About Foothills Little Explorers

We created Foothills Little Explorers in March 2023. It started with 3 families all located in Morganton and has grown to 35+ families that travel from near and far in 1 year. Our group consists of moms, dads, nannies, grandparents, babysitters, and the children they care for.

  • Absolutely! Most of our hikes are rated “easy” and child-friendly. Many of our adventures are on groomed or paved paths. Some adventures are at farms or local parks. If you are unsure if you will be capable to attend a particular hike, we suggest looking it up on the AllTrails app.

  • Make sure to check the monthly schedule for what to bring, because each adventure is different. However, for most adventures, we recommend bringing a backpack or child carrier, water, snacks/lunch, change of clothes, sunscreen, bug spray, and a towel.

  • Anyone! All are welcome and you will find other like-minded families in this group.