Hiking Alone?

[Heykevo]

I'm planning my first trail hike some time in mid-september. I've told a few people and they are all basically very very worried about me going alone. From what I can gather on here.. its basically a standard thing for most of you? I was thinking of around seven days, with no real set mileages, just having a good time and enjoying the trails. Should I be highly concerned of my safety?

[wilconow]

Is it your first time backpacking?

[Appalachian Tater]

Depending upon where you hike, you may be truly alone or surrounded by people. You should be concerned about safety whether you are alone or not. Depending on your occupation and place of residence, you may actually be much safer on the trail, although the hazards may be different. A primary concern would be tick-borne disease.

[Heykevo]

This would be my first actual backpack trip, never done anything comperable unless you count wandering around in the woods as a kid for a half a day. I'm definitely concerned about safety, but it seems everyone I've spoken to is absolutely convinced I'm going to get attacked by an animal, kidnapped, or break my leg and end up in an old 70s Burt Reynolds movie.

I'm concerned about my safety, but obviously not to a point to where I do not wish to go. Every precaution will be taken, and I'll surely be reading these boards every day until then, and have been for weeks.

[Lyle]

If you are a person with common sense, some first aid training, and you research what equipment you will need then you will have few increased risks than you do during your normal week, actually many fewer in some regards.

Do you have some idea how to read a map in case you need to bail out? Do you know how to use your equipment? Do you understand hypothermia and what causes it? If yes to these, then go out, have fun, take it easy, and if in doubt, err on the side of caution.

Do an overnight or two in the back yard/local park just to get your camp routine figured out and you will be ahead of the game.

Also, don't choose the most challanging section for your first hike.

One other consideration, have you ever been on your own, away from friends and family for a week? Can cause some people unwarrented concern, most all trail folks are very friendly/helpful/responsible/compasionate and love to help out newbies.

Have a good time.

[Yahtzee]

While making no guarantees, you will most likely not be attacked on the AT. If there are concerns it would be underpreparation (lack of clothing or warmth) or overstuffed pack (slowing you to a crawl and screwing with your planning).

Just set off and walk. When you get tired stop. When you are done for the day find a nice spot to camp and do that. Cook, watch the sun set and go to sleep.

You have no worries but worries. All will be well, you are starting a necessary cycle. Stay on it, fear will pass, and all the beauty of the outdoors will be there for you. Happy trails.

[DavidNH]

This would be my first actual backpack trip, never done anything comperable unless you count wandering around in the woods as a kid for a half a day. I'm definitely concerned about safety, but it seems everyone I've spoken to is absolutely convinced I'm going to get attacked by an animal, kidnapped, or break my leg and end up in an old 70s Burt Reynolds movie.

I'm concerned about my safety, but obviously not to a point to where I do not wish to go. Every precaution will be taken, and I'll surely be reading these boards every day until then, and have been for weeks.

Could I ask where you plan to hike? that is very pertinent to the question. Some places you will have lots of company others you won't.
My gut reaction is don't worry about it... but I would like to know where you plan to hike before saying no worries.

David

[wilconow]

I would highly recommend going on dayhikes before your first backpacking trip.

[joec]

The one thing that stood out to me after doing my first solo hike last year (35 miles) was the lack of anything else to do other than walk. With other people along, you seem to have a reason to stop more often. I got up in the morning and started walking. With nobody to talk to, the breaks are shorter, the meals are shorter the camptime seemed to be shorter. I covered more ground than I had planned and was very tired each nite. Need to take longer breaks and relax more.

[Appalachian Tater]

Dehydration is another real issue for beginning hikers. Make sure you drink plenty of water.

[FanaticFringer]

Your biggest safety concern should be the drive to and from the trail head.

[Heykevo]

I highly appreciate all of the quick replies. I'm certain that a week of being completely isolated will be of no effort to me, I'm a loner by nature and prefer to be cut off from other people. I have basic first aid and none of the concerns are of my own doing.. its just the people around me that have concerns. I'm well experienced in camping by myself, my friends have some land about two hours away from here that I go down to all of the time. I have seen bears, wolves, and have raccoons raid my food on more than one occasion when I was there on my own. It's not a "hike" but it is isolation in a swamp area with not a soul for over a mile in any direction. I can read a map very well, I currently have no equipment but I'm not one to go out unprepared, I can set up a tent in the pouring rain in almost pitch black darkness (that was fun), and I can start a fire from virtually nothing.

I've went on a couple ten mile hikes in the past few weeks at our local state park, with a backpack and two jugs of water in it, just to see what it would be like. I had not hint of a problem doing this in 90 degree weather so I'm confident my physical ability will be of little concern.

I really have not planned out a spot to go just yet, that is my next big step. I'm checking all avenues before I decide that one. I want something mildly challenging, nothing serious, no large amounts of climbing, but still somewhere that is not a popular place where I'll be waiting in line to get through. I want to be able to go off trail quite a ways and set up a camp site not near others, and am fully dedicated to leaving absolutely no trace other than footsteps.

Thank you all again for the replies, I'm even more confident in myself now and can at least somewhat attempt to put my friends worries to rest.

[wilconow]

I've went on a couple ten mile hikes in the past few weeks at our local state park, with a backpack and two jugs of water in it, just to see what it would be like. I had not hint of a problem doing this in 90 degree weather so I'm confident my physical ability will be of little concern.


Oh sorry. When you said your comparable experience was wandering around in the woods as a child, I thought that meant you hadn't gone on on dayhikes recently.

[berninbush]

I'm guessing that the people you are talking to are non-hikers. It's an interesting psychological phenomenon that people tend to over-estimate unfamiliar dangers, and under-estimate familiar dangers. This is what causes people to fear flying in an airplane but think nothing of driving a car, even though statistically flying is much safer.

Beyond the psychology of perceived danger, there is some increase in actual danger when you don't know the survival strategies for your environment. Imagine taking a man who has always lived in African jungles and plopping him down in the midst of New York City.... he would be in considerable danger from traffic and muggers because he's out of his element. A NYC resident would be in similar danger if you plopped him down in the jungle. Each would need to learn to adapt.

Most experienced hikers seem to agree that you're safer on the trail than in the city, once you know "the rules" for survival outdoors. It does make sense. Animals generally do not generally choose to attack humans unless they are provoked, and human criminals are more likely to be found in populated areas (where they can more easily find victims) than the woods.

[Alligator]

If you have any worries that your safety might be impacted by what you are/are not bringing, post a gear list and the general vicinity of your hike.

[D'Artagnan]

I doubt many people, when they are older and grayer, think to themselves: "Gee, I wish I had stayed indoors more and taken fewer risks." Common sense and a little preparation will take care of you. Alternatively, you might want to convince a friend to tag along. It's definitely a bonding experience.

[Time To Fly 97]

Heykevo,

No worries if you use a little common sense.

For your first hike, make sure you have looked at a map and know where you can bail out if you need to and especially where the waterless stretches may be.

Double check your gear list. It wastes a lot of time if you have to whittle a spoon, etc. : )

Test your gear: know how to use your stove, boots broken in, pack fits, tarp seams sealed, etc.

At first, focus on making steady miles until you know your pace and how you are doing with your planned schedule...then you know how long to hang out.

If you leave the trail, make sure you stop and remember how to get back - especially if you like to seek out choice spots for a smoke. Maybe bring a compass for these special times.

No matter how tired you are, make sure you properly hang your food. Also, don't go crazy with your food weight - you won't need two extra days just in case and 4 snacks per day.

Just for emergencies, you may want to bring a cell phone wrapped up in a ziplock with the local ranger station number programmed in. Rangers are your friends!

Mostly - make sure you enjoy your trip. Every second hiking is a gift.


Happy hiking!

TTF

[scope]

This would be my first actual backpack trip, never done anything comperable unless you count wandering around in the woods as a kid for a half a day. I'm definitely concerned about safety, but it seems everyone I've spoken to is absolutely convinced I'm going to get attacked by an animal, kidnapped, or break my leg and end up in an old 70s Burt Reynolds movie.

I'm concerned about my safety, but obviously not to a point to where I do not wish to go. Every precaution will be taken, and I'll surely be reading these boards every day until then, and have been for weeks.

Lots of folks have strong opinions about things that they know nothing about. Any of these people hike? Any of these people ask you anything about it before giving you their opinion? Didnt' think so. Its worse if they're your wife whose fears you often can't explain/argue away.

I hike alone all the time, exclusively on the AT (Ga/NC only so far) because I do feel safe there. For one, there are always plenty of people on the trail, so if you should fall and can't get up, etc., you're not likely to be long without someone helping you - and hikers are typically the best about helping others. Crime is non-existent, except for the occasional break-in at the parking lot. Critters are mostly non-existent, for better or for worse. With enough hikers around to stink up the place, critters mostly stay clear. Snakes are a concern at certain times of the year, but if it were a problem, you'd hear about it on WB, so obviously its not a problem. And cell coverage is very good - all things being considered - with the major carriers. I've never been without coverage for very long - usually any peak or high point is good, and most of the gaps.

The only concern I can think of is if you have specific medical concerns that might require the immediate attention of a hiking partner (heart condition, diabetes, etc.). Otherwise, just make sure someone knows your itenerary and maybe check in with them now and then.

p.s. the kidnapping is a good one - LOL!! Who kidnaps a stinky hiker? :D

[buckowens]

I agree with most everyones comments here, and echo the fact that this is no different than precautions you would take for other normal activities. Like if you take a long trip in the winter and have a blanket and some supplies in case you got stuck. The statistics would say that the drive to the trail is way more dangerous than the hike. I was a Trooper before going full time Army and I felt comfortable all but one time on our trip, and it was probably nothing but somebody who was having a bad day.

I think one other consideration is the reason you are hiking. Are you looking for solitude to make some life decision that requires being alone? Maybe testing your own abilities or something like that? That would determine whether a partner would be suitable. In addition to the normal ones of compatibility and hiking speeds...

Roo and I found that since we are both pretty social, we remembered the people we met and the experiences with them. The guy with the bear bell, the homeless folks dragging their gear on tree limbs, the Army Rangers, the Marine trying to impress his girlfriend etc. We really liked having folks to talk with. In camp we liked a mixture of maybe one day near folks and one in the middle of nowhere. If you camp between shelters, which is what we prefer, you may only see other people while hiking during the day.

Pay attention to the folks here (not me...) who are very experienced and try to get as light as possible in your equipment, without driving yourself crazy :D

Good luck.

[Egads]

"I have seen bears, wolves, and have raccoons raid my food on more than one occasion when I was there on my own."

Not to be critical, but you need to take along a food / toiletry bag and rope to hang your food. Use the bear cables if staying at shelters.

Bears and other animals become problems for everyone when they associate an easy meal with backpackers.

Egads

[Shutterbug]

I'm planning my first trail hike some time in mid-september. I've told a few people and they are all basically very very worried about me going alone. From what I can gather on here.. its basically a standard thing for most of you? I was thinking of around seven days, with no real set mileages, just having a good time and enjoying the trails. Should I be highly concerned of my safety?

I often hike alone and have never had a serious problem, yet I read almost every week of a hiker who has become lost and has to be rescued. Here are some lessons I have learned:

1. Leave a detailed description of your hiking plan. Even if you don't have set places to camp, you should know where you are starting and ending your hike and the planned route. One time I was on a three day hike in the Saw Tooth mountains of Idaho. On the second day I injured a knee. I was able to limp my way out, but I realized that if I couldn't, no one knew where to look for me. It is an unsettling feeling when no one knows where you are.

2. Be sure to have the essential 10.

3. Some of the lists for "essential 10" say "a map or a gps." Don't rely strictly on a gps. A gps is great when it works, but more than once I have had them fail. Be sure to have a paper map. Know your approximate location at all times.

4. When you are alone, be even more careful than usual about risk of falling. Just last week a solo hiker died because of a fall (Clear Creek County, Co). Perhaps a solo hiker is no more likely to fall than a hiker with companions, but if one falls the chance of receiving immediate help is better if one has a companion. Last year, I took a bad fall on Mt. Rainier. Fortunately, no bones were broken, but by the time I stopped rolling I was so deep in the brush that I would have never been found if I had been unable to climb out.

5. Communication -- When I plan to be out more than three or four days, I carry a satellite phone. They are fairly expensive to rent and way too heavy, but it makes my wife more comfortable. It is something I do to keep peace in the family.

I hope these help.

[oldbear]

I do most of my hiking solo because I'm basically curmudgen at heart. I have noticed something really interesting about so hikers; They tend to be very disciplined and very realistic about what can be done and cannot be done in.a wilderness environment.
In some ways solo hiking is actually safer than hiking in a group because there isn't that collective group ego pushing the group into places where they may in fact not belong.
All solo hikers are very much aware of their own vulnerability. They all know that if something goes wrong the cavalry is not going to come over the hill to rescue them; the are the cavalry.The end result is a disciplined hiker that knows since he's not allowed to make big mistakes ; he doesn't.

[shelterbuilder]

I'm definitely concerned about safety, but it seems everyone I've spoken to is absolutely convinced I'm going to get attacked by an animal, kidnapped, or break my leg and end up in an old 70s Burt Reynolds movie....

It sounds like most of the people to whom you've been talking are NOT hikers. And I'm sure that, at some point, one of these "well-wishers" will dredge up an article about a crime committed on the AT. Yes, it CAN happen. However, the reason that crime on the trail makes national headlines is that it happens so RARELY! By and large, members of the hiking community are some of the nicest folks you'd ever want to meet. I personally feel safer out on the trail than I do in my own backyard.:)

As for the rest of it, don't worry about the animals - they'll be more afraid of you than you are of them; plan for your own medical conditions (allergies, diabetes, etc.); carry a cell phone; LET SOMEONE BACK HOME KNOW EXACTLY WHERE YOU'RE GOING AND WHEN YOU'LL BE BACK, AND MAKE SURE YOU CALL THEM WHEN YOU'RE OUT OF THE WOODS (BEFORE THEY CALL 911!).:eek:

[Dirtygaiters]

I'm planning my first trail hike some time in mid-september. I've told a few people and they are all basically very very worried about me going alone. From what I can gather on here.. its basically a standard thing for most of you? I was thinking of around seven days, with no real set mileages, just having a good time and enjoying the trails. Should I be highly concerned of my safety?


I think a lot of the solo hikers on here are northbound thru hikers who actually aren't as alone as you might think because of the large numbers of people leaving from Springer around the same time. They can pick trail/hiking friends as they go along (and from what I imagine this sound like a lot of fun). But that's probably not what most people imagine when they envision a solo hike.

If you have limited hiking experience, I would not recommend hiking alone.

If you have enough experience in backcountry camping, survival, medicine, naviagation, and all those other little things (if you spent time with the Boy Scouts in your youth), and you feel confident that you can handle total seclusion for an extended peroid of time, even if the situation turns bad, or becomes critical, then go for it! It's a whole new experience than going with other people.

I've done a lot of solo hiking and most of the time I actually prefer it over going with my friends. My rationale generally is that 1) it takes energy that I'd sometimes prefer not expending to keep up conversation with another person and 2) I like to go slow sometimes: I like to smell the flowers and a lot of my hiking friends like to go fast and leave me in the dust anyway.

There's nothing stupid about hiking alone if you're reasonably prepared. Tell those friends of yours that they are only stressing themselves by worrying and you just go for it (if you have enough experiene and wilderness skills, that is)

[Dirtygaiters]

I doubt many people, when they are older and grayer, think to themselves: "Gee, I wish I had stayed indoors more and taken fewer risks."


D'Artagnan, this an awesome quote!

[Lone Wolf]

I'm planning my first trail hike some time in mid-september. I've told a few people and they are all basically very very worried about me going alone. From what I can gather on here.. its basically a standard thing for most of you? I was thinking of around seven days, with no real set mileages, just having a good time and enjoying the trails. Should I be highly concerned of my safety?

you're a male hiking alone. no worries. males killed on the AT were hiking with women. they were killed first, then they, the killer, had their way with the women. just the facts. justgo hikin'

[Frolicking Dinosaurs]

I doubt many people, when they are older and grayer, think to themselves: "Gee, I wish I had stayed indoors more and taken fewer risks." ::: Ancient Dino nods that this is true :::

Since this is your first backpackng trip, you may want to look for an area with some 'outs' - either road crossings or side trails that lead to towns. This will allow you to get additional food, items or help if needed (unlikely, but it does happen -- and happens more frequently to unexperienced hikers). As for attacks by animals - almost never happens. Dangers from other hikers are also rare. Most hikers that are bothered by others have the experience at a campsite or shelter fairly close to a road crossing - so if this concerns you, plan to camp away from such places.

[modiyooch]

Could I ask where you plan to hike? that is very pertinent to the question. Some places you will have lots of company others you won't.
My gut reaction is don't worry about it... but I would like to know where you plan to hike before saying no worries.

DavidMy advice is to not answer the above question esp. on a public forum. I wouldn't advertise the when and where of being alone. I hike alone alot, but it is best to be street smart. That is the original reason why I don't stay in shelters, (now it due to the mice). I'm also cautious at road crossings and towns. I truly believe that you are safer out on the trail, then you are in your home town running routine errands, or routine work schedule, when it comes to people.

[WalkingStick75]

Heyvko you are getting a lot of good advice here but nothing like good old fashion expierence. You should try a weekend or two first. I am a section hiker with only 175 miles to go. (Planning to finish this year!) Most of the time I went solo, sometimes I would hook up with another hiker or two, ran into a couple hikers that truly had me concerned enough to leave the shelter and make a cold camp a mile or two away. Trust your feelings, if something does not feel right, it probably isn't.

By far you are safer on the trail then any city even small towns. Being a section hiker I have met so many people and I really wish I have stayed in contact with a few of them. Enjoy the trail and enjoy those that you will meet on the trail.

[fiddlehead]

"He travels fastest who travels alone"
or something like that. Think about it: you take breaks when you want to, you stay in town as long (or short) as you want to, your breaks last until you feel like moving on, you see more wildlife, camp where you want, when you want, blue blaze when you want, cut switchbacks when you want and nobody will know (oh, did I say that?) , treat or not treat water if you want, the list is infinite.
it's a great feeling to be comfortable in the outdoors with only the wind and bird-calls to listen to. (well on the AT you'll hear a lot more) But out west, i've walked an 800 mile stretch and saw 2 other hikers already, that was awesome!
If you need someone to talk to, then don't do it.

[Nightwalker]

Most experienced hikers seem to agree that you're safer on the trail than in the city, once you know "the rules" for survival outdoors.

You're safer on the trail than on WB. :)

[Jimmers]

Aint that the truth!;)

Hiking solo on the AT is just as safe as being in a group if you have basic skills. You're never truly alone for that long. Sit still long enough and someone always comes along. Whether you want them to or not.:rolleyes:

[Nightwalker]

Aint that the truth!;)

Hiking solo on the AT is just as safe as being in a group if you have basic skills. You're never truly alone for that long. Sit still long enough and someone always comes along. Whether you want them to or not.:rolleyes:

I just hiked a week and saw absolutely no one. Just me and the dog.

I love the Summer time. Great for itchy legs and lonely trails. :)

[ImkerVS]

I hike alone, did my first multiple night section hike this past May, and experienced a little bit of what the trail throws at you, rain, minor injuries, carried too much food, etc.

The oddest part, the true psychological test of whether it is for you, is when you pitch a tent miles from anybody, it gets nice and dark, you sleep for a while, and when you wake up you hear something, you doln't know what, circling around your tent, sniffing. If you can get through that, you'll be fine.

It didn't sound big enough to be a bear, but on the off chance it was a skunk I decided not to find out what it was. Probably a raccoon.

You can describe that experience to nonhikers and their eyes get really big.

I carried bear spray by the way. It made my wife feel better. Funny thing was the only bear I saw was after I got home, in my backyard, knocking over my bee hives. Had to put in an electric fence.

[7Sisters]

The AT, is not an inherintly dangerous place and I would say that hiking on the AT for 7 days is not generally an issue. If this is your first time out alone, you really should take some more precautions:

1 - plan your trip to be in an area with several bail out options (road crossings or trails that lead to roads)
2 - post your itinerary with someone you trust and with specific instructions about when you'll be off the trail.
3 - who to call in case of emergency (state police are a good starting point, as is game and fish agency)
4 - make sure you have a trail map and data book listing where vital information is (shelters, water, roads and towns)
5 - call your trusted person when you get to the trail head and when you're off the trail (don't want a search and rescue to take place if you never made it to the trail head).

These are not paranoid, but good safe practices. I have done the entire trail, several national parks and hiked abroad. I still follow these guidelines.

You're going at a good time where the real major issue will be water and injury. You won't have to worry about cold weather and should be able to pack very light.

Enjoy

[Jim Adams]

use common sense and you will be safer out there than they will be in their neighborhoods.

geek

[superman]

If you're ever hiking alone and you want some company just stay on the trail
Or if you want some private time, to do what the bears do, and you find a spot way off the trail...that will be when you discover that the trail does a switch back.
The point is that you're not as alone as you think you are.:)

[Chaco Taco]

I do most of my hiking solo because I'm basically curmudgen at heart. I have noticed something really interesting about so hikers; They tend to be very disciplined and very realistic about what can be done and cannot be done in.a wilderness environment.
In some ways solo hiking is actually safer than hiking in a group because there isn't that collective group ego pushing the group into places where they may in fact not belong.
All solo hikers are very much aware of their own vulnerability. They all know that if something goes wrong the cavalry is not going to come over the hill to rescue them; the are the cavalry.The end result is a disciplined hiker that knows since he's not allowed to make big mistakes ; he doesn't.

You said it perfectly:)

[Chaco Taco]

I hike alone, did my first multiple night section hike this past May, and experienced a little bit of what the trail throws at you, rain, minor injuries, carried too much food, etc.

The oddest part, the true psychological test of whether it is for you, is when you pitch a tent miles from anybody, it gets nice and dark, you sleep for a while, and when you wake up you hear something, you doln't know what, circling around your tent, sniffing. If you can get through that, you'll be fine.

It didn't sound big enough to be a bear, but on the off chance it was a skunk I decided not to find out what it was. Probably a raccoon.

You can describe that experience to nonhikers and their eyes get really big.

I carried bear spray by the way. It made my wife feel better. Funny thing was the only bear I saw was after I got home, in my backyard, knocking over my bee hives. Had to put in an electric fence.

This why earplugs are mandatory for me. Heard a pack of wolves one night at Derricks knob chewy up a pretty big soundin hog out in the woods. From then on, earplugs

[Ewker]

sorry to go off topic but what the heck happened to the color of this thread...the white sucks

[Jimmers]

That would be due to the recent changes made by Attroll while the site was down:

" While we were down we changed the color scheme for three forums. These forums are Straight Forward, Hooking Up, and the Ride Board. These boards will all be treated just like the straight forward forum now. This mean anything posted in these forums will stay on topic or be deleted by a moderator or an admin with no questions asked."

Just so this is on topic:D, I still think solo hiking is perfectly safe on the AT if you have any experience at all, especially if you've already let people know where you're going and when you expect to be back. Then again, I've also solo hiked the Grand Canyon and Canyonlands in July, so I may not be the best person to listen to either. ;)

[Ramble~On]

Your biggest safety concern should be the drive to and from the trail head.


I prefer solo hiking. I see and experience so much more than if there are others along. There is a really cool feeling of knowing you are truely on your own, self sufficient. Yes, there are risks involved while hiking solo and if there were not it wouldn't have the same appeal or offer the "excitement". I'm no pro or authority on the subject.
I enjoy my time out and learn from every trip...this wasn't always the case..
I have had many learning experiences from trips where I was unprepared, or bit off more than I could chew...or the weather closed a road and added a long walk to what would have been a nice drive.
I can't always find people to hike with and it really isn't easy to convince someone that spending the night on a bald in blizzard is something that they'll enjoy...( but it is;) ) So....when there aren't people to go along....go anyway !
I'm not gonna to write a sermon here on what to do or how to do anything.
You're reading this which means you found this website..kudos to you for that!
Hiking and camping solo is something that does have some risk involved and the more you are able to learn before you decide to take a solo hike the better you'll enjoy your time in the woods. The only advice I'd give is ALWAYS tell someone (TRUSTWORTHY) where you are going, what your itinerary is and when you plan to return.

[Jaybird]

I'm planning my first trail hike some time in mid-september. I've told a few people and they are all basically very very worried about me going alone. From what I can gather on here.. its basically a standard thing for most of you? I was thinking of around seven days, with no real set mileages, just having a good time and enjoying the trails. Should I be highly concerned of my safety?



IF it'll make you feel better (& your friends) take someone along this time....then you can see (first hand) about how many people are on the trail...etc.,

GOOD LUCK with yer hike!:D

[Ewker]

That would be due to the recent changes made by Attroll while the site was down:

" While we were down we changed the color scheme for three forums. These forums are Straight Forward, Hooking Up, and the Ride Board. These boards will all be treated just like the straight forward forum now. This mean anything posted in these forums will stay on topic or be deleted by a moderator or an admin with no questions asked."

Just so this is on topic:D, I still think solo hiking is perfectly safe on the AT if you have any experience at all, especially if you've already let people know where you're going and when you expect to be back. Then again, I've also solo hiked the Grand Canyon and Canyonlands in July, so I may not be the best person to listen to either. ;)



I hope he changes the color to something more appealing to the eyes:rolleyes: and to be on topic I haven't ever hiked solo for a trip. One day I will get around to it.

[Grumpy Ol' Pops]

Heykevo,

Test your gear: know how to use your stove, boots broken in, pack fits, tarp seams sealed, etc.

TTF

Like in real estate, for backpacking, the best advice is Planning, Planning, and Planning. Some years ago, before I seriously switched over from day hiking to overnight backpacking, I bought one of the old style military mess kits for just a couple of dollars. On the first night in camp, I began preparing my dinner -- a predecessor of today's "meals-in-a-box" -- and found that the pot was actually too small to hold the water and all the dehydrated ingredients at the same time. Needless to say, the meal wasn't the most enjoyable, took twice the time to prepare all of it, and required twice as much fuel as I had planned.!

Today, whenever I prepare a new menu for a future trip. I ALWAYS try the individual meals at home first, not only to be sure the preparation will hold no surprises, but also to be sure the meal will be something I'll enjoy. There have been several things I've tasted and immediately thrown away!

I also repackage all the boxed meals and add whatever else will be needed to prepare them so they are easily found in my food bag and complete for preparation. For example, Knorr Lipton pasta meals often call for one cup of milk to be added. I simply put 1/3 cup of powdered milk into a resealable plastic bag, put the remainder of the boxed items into the same bag, and user an indelible marker on the bag to note the menu plan day and day number, meal name, the amount of water required for the recipe, plus 2/3 cup of water for the milk, cooking time, and whatever other notes I'll need. I sometimes spice them up a bit and even add an unopened pouch of tuna, shrimp or even crab meat to the resealable bag so I can add it to the meal at the last minute.
When I'm packing the various meals and snacks in my food bag, the day numbers let me stack the food so that each meal or snack will be at the top of the food bag at the time I need it to be. This way, I never have to unpack everything to find a particular breakfast or dinner or snack. So far it's worked out well every time!

[Mags]

Ah..solo hiking. Something I think about fairly often.
Two things I wrote. One from 2006 on PCT-L:


*************************

"I wait. Now the night flows back, the mighty
stillness embraces and includes me; I can see the
stars again and the world of starlight. I am twenty
miles or more from the nearest fellow human, but
instead of lonliness I feel loveliness. Loveliness
and a quiet exultation. "

So said Cactus Ed (Abbey).

I really can't say it much better..but because I ramble on, I'm going to say something anyway. :-)

When hiking solo. I do not feel alone. I do much thinking that otherwise would not be done. Everything
is more intense. Somehow the views are vaster, the sounds sharper, the smells more intense. The feelings
are overwhelming. In short, I feel intimately connected to the universe in which I walk. I do not
feel alone...but more connected.

When I did the PCT, I went 3.5 days without seeing anyone. I stumbled in a herd of elk on a damp Oregon
day. The sounds of hoofs crashing through the woods, the smell of damp earth, the incredible sight of the
large elk going through the woods. Almost four years later, this image is etched vividly in my memory.

When I did the Colorado Trail, was caught in a snowstorm on San Luis saddle (12500' plus, well above
treeline!). I bailed into Creede. The following day was again on a divide. The mountains around me were
white, the sky was a deep blue. The air had the crispness of Colorado in autumn. It was an over
whelmingly intense scene. My eyes filled up with the intense emotion I felt with the beauty encompassing
me.

Solo hiking can be difficult. You are by yourself, in your own thoughts. You must use your own resources. I
don't think being alone is what makes going solo hard...I think confronting yourself, having all around
you that much more intense...that is what people find difficult.

For me, solo hiking turns a thru-hike from an exntended vacation into a wilderness pilgrimage. When
going solo, I am forced to confront on a very gut level what I am seeking on the pilgrirmage. The
beauty, the emotion, my thoughts. And I would not have it any other way.

************

And here's something I wrote in my CDT journal last year:


From my CDT journal:

I have been solo the majority of the time on this journey. I enjoy solo hiking. For me, solo hiking is
the most intense way to enjoy the journeys in the wilderness. But part of me also enjoys the company of
friends in the wilderness. Hiking with Jess and Tradja felt like a backpacking trip back home. Tne
conversations were similar, their pace made the day feel like a weekend outing, and it was just enjoyable
to share part of the journey with such good people.

I think spending time with them was so enjoyable in part because I was reminded of my home in Boulder, or
more accuaretly my friends back in Boulder. As I get closer to Colorado, I can feel myself getting more
anxiouus to see my friends. I read and reread every email from them. When I received an email about the
birth of my friends' child, a small case of home sickness was felt.

When I did the PCT four years ago, was just starting to form a community of friends who are like a second
family to me. Four years later, this trip is making me realize how important that community
has become in my life.

.......

As any thru-hiker will tell you, trail time and "real world time" are different. Six weeks on the trail is
not like six weeks back home. Time dilates out here.Every day is long and filled with something new.
And by hiking solo, the "trail time" feel is magnified significantly. The emotions are more intense solo.

When you are in your own head for hours or even days at a time, everything looks and feels different. And
that is why I think hiking with Tradja and Jess was so enjoyable. I may enjoy solo hiking, but part of me
very much needs a sense of community at times, too.

Balancing a need for solitude with a contradictory need for community is definitely felt more on this
trail than other trails. Once you choose solitude on this trail, you are solo for a while. I choose
solitude because it is how I need to hike the long trails. Every choice involves a sacrifice.

Today, I also saw two friends from the hiking community I have known for years. Jim and Ginny Owen
are on their second CDT thru-hike. We passed each other just outside the Wind River Range. The five us
talked for well over an hour. Our talking about the places we've seen and places we hope to yet see on the trail made
for some animated discussion.

As I camp solo tonight at the start of the Winds, I think of why I do these long hikes. They are done in
part because of places such as the Winds. Magical places that can only be seen on foot. Places that
require going in many miles to been seen at all. I go on these journeys because I love the passion that like
minded people can share for nature. I go on these journeys because of the journey itself. How an average
person can take a pack and walk from one end of this country to another.

The decision to go on these journeys involve some sacrifices at times. As I think of why I go on these
journeys, I realize that the sacrifices are worth the price. The price is not for something I want to
do...but for something I have to do at this point in my life. To again spend months immersed in nature. To
again see new mountains every day. To again become excited about what is over the horizon. To
again become excited about the journey itself.

SOMETHING I WROTE A FEW DAYS LATER:

As mentioned previously, hiking solo makes all the emotions felt that much more acutely.

My pangs of home sickness passed after hiking through the Winds. The Winds are simply the most magical place
in the American Rockies.

I elected to do some cross-country high routes rather than follow the CDT that was lower. The route I chose
was difficult at times, but rewarding. Mountain passes thar rival the High Sierra. Alpine lakes a deep
blue. Mountains surrounding you and covered with glaciers.

If low points are felt more hiking solo, so are the high points.

When I reached the top of Temple Pass and saw the morning sunlight hitting the peaks, I knew why these
hikes are taken. No matter what may happen to me on the trail, no matter what I may feel, it will all
pass.

What will not pass are the memories such as I experienced in the Winds. Where the views are vast,
the mountains are high and the valleys pristine. To be able to experience nature for months at a time is a
wonderful gift. A gift for which I am thankful.

[glad777]

The most important thing is to make sure you have the right clothing system,water filtration/purification(learned this the hardway) and a MAP and compass you know how to use...oh and a cell phone and a whistle so that when you get lost well you know...

[woodsy]

Great post by Mags and others on Solo hiking.
I am not a long distance hiker but most always hike solo no matter how far outback some of the trails less traveled may take me. If you are one of those fiercely independent types than solo hiking should come natural and enjoyable.

[superman]

If you're ever hiking alone and you want some company just stay on the trail
Or if you want some private time, to do what the bears do, and you find a spot way off the trail...that will be when you discover that the trail does a switch back.
The point is that you're not as alone as you think you are.:)

I had meant to explain that when I was hiking alone on the AT during the heat of the summer I'd drop my shorts enough to power the private area. More than a few times I came close to being caught.
One of the guys I hiked with said that he was going to be in therapy after his hike because he unfortuanately caught one of the women going to the bathroom right on the trail. You may feel like your alone but another hiker may be just around the next bend in the trail. The AT is a busy bibbon of land from GA to ME.
As far as bad people bothering you there just aren't thatmany to worry about them. The areas to be watchful is hitching to town or other areas where locals can be annoying. Your safer on the AT than you are in your own home town.
Life is all about managing risk. The greater risk is to not do the things you want to. Enjoy your hike. If anyone says you can't....tell them superman said that you can.

[moondoggy]

Heykevo:
I'd respectfully disagree with Modiyooch on this one.....I'd ask these kind folks where to go for my first "longer" hike. I did, got some wonderful suggestions. One of which we took and hike from North of Damascus back to town...about 45 miles. It was great. We were as alone as we wanted to be and felt very, very safe...
We had a wonderful hike, did another short one earlier this year.
Don't stress over it too much....post you gearlist here for a quick check, ask every question you can think of and then just go take your walk....you'll be fine,