Michelle, I found some cute chest harnesses that zip up the back with long cords at Sears (yes, you could call it a baby leash) that gave my kids the freedom to walk on the ground on their own but I had the straps in case I had to pull them out of harms way, or wanted to be sure they stayed on the path. They were happier walking than being carried, and I could give them a little freedom (within the range of the harness) to meander. Here it is. Sears doesn't seem to have it in stock any more. Amazon might.

SRS