Am I being unnecessarily cautious? [outdoor adventuring solo]

[pendgwen]

I like hiking and camping. One of the safety rules that I was taught growing up is that you don’t go hiking by yourself. So at the moment I don’t do much hiking because I seldom have a friend to go with. But this is not a universally observed rule. When I do hike I sometimes see people hiking alone. Of course these are often the people who are out with no supplies other than a single waterbottle in their hand so I don’t know that they are necessarily the best people to emulate. (I may not carry all of the ten essentials (http://www.mountaineersbooks.org/client/client_pages/Media%20Archives/mtn_media_TenEssentials.cfm) but I have 7-8 of them in my pack.) When I learned to hike I was in the Pacific Northwest where it’s possible to get truly lost in a wilderness area the size of, say, Rainier National Park. Maybe my safety standards need adjusting now that I’m in the Northeast and most of my hiking options are not so remote from civilization. So am I being ridiculously cautious with my never go hiking without a buddy approach or are the people I see out alone being foolhardy?

[WhyNot]

I think they're being foolhardy. Even if you get cellphone reception everywhere you hike, and even if you keep your phone charged, you just don't know...there's a risk of dropping your phone, and not being able to reach it. Or smashing it. Or falling and severing an artery in a place you can't place a tourniquet yourself. Even if you're on a trail where people pass you every hour, a lot could happen in that hour.

Hiking with a buddy won't eliminate all risks, but it does better your odds.

Is there a Meetup group for hikers you could attend to get to know more hikers in your area?

[kayaker]

It's all about what risk you are willing to accept. I kayak solo all the time. There are people who think it is a horrible thing to do. I enjoy it. I have decent life insurance so my beneficiaries will do OK, and people who know me will understand if anything were to happen.

[boytyperanma]

To me it really depends on where I'm hiking. I always prefer to have a partner to go hiking with in the first place but not having someone I'd choose a more traveled(to me usually translates to less interesting) place to go.

I think if you are hiking on frequently hiked paths in an area with cell phone reception, you could forgo the buddy.

[Kaio]

I think it depends on how far out you go, and whether you stick to clear, clearly-marked trails. If you would have to be brain-dead to get lost, you'd probably be okay. If you're planning an 8-hour trek deep into the mountains, not so much.

Injuries can happen however, whenever, but if you're on a trafficked trail during the day you'll probably run into someone. If you've only gone an hour out, worst-case scenario is that you spend 2 or 3 hours dragging yourself back to the parking lot. Not fun, but it won't kill ya. Clear trails are usually groomed well enough that getting pinned under a falling rock isn't a likely scenario.

Of course this is all sort of "wilderness light," so if that's not your deal, find yourself a buddy.

[Troppus]

It's all about what risk you are willing to accept. I kayak solo all the time. There are people who think it is a horrible thing to do. I enjoy it. I have decent life insurance so my beneficiaries will do OK, and people who know me will understand if anything were to happen.

Me too, and I'm a skinny little girl. I get my husband to drop me in the water on his way to work every chance I get. Long trips, too. I take a first aid kit, extra paddle, extra PFD, food, water, cell phone, GPS, and mace.

When I hike alone (usually) I carry water, cell phone, mace. And that's it.

I wish I could find the recent study that found that victims of crime were more likely to experience a repeat episode; something about their posture/body language/ appearance that led criminals to choose them over others, but needless to say that preparation and confidence are some of your best survival tools.

Your didn't mention the common threats in your location. Mountain lions? Coyotes? Creepy people? Muggers? Bears?

[kayaker]

Me too, and I'm a skinny little girl. I get my husband to drop me in the water on his way to work every chance I get. Long trips, too. I take a first aid kit, extra paddle, extra PFD, food, water, cell phone, GPS, and mace.

When I hike alone (usually) I carry water, cell phone, mace. And that's it.

I carry an extra paddle, my cell phone in a drybag, a snack, a few beers and a camelbak of water. PFDs are confining (IMO) so I carry one if the law requires it. I'm not a skinny little girl, I'm a scary looking older guy with piercings and tattoos. I imagine you reach for your mace when you first see me, but I'm harmless.:D

[VunderBob]

I like doing stuff solo, too. I make sure someone knows when I go out, and when to expect me back.

[Troppus]

I carry an extra paddle, my cell phone in a drybag, a snack, a few beers and a camelbak of water. PFDs are confining (IMO) so I carry one if the law requires it. I'm not a skinny little girl, I'm a scary looking older guy with piercings and tattoos. I imagine you reach for your mace when you first see me, but I'm harmless.:D

Yeah, don't have to wear one in my state/s, so I don't either. But I have one PFD behind my seat, and a throw bag/float on the back deck. Couple beers in my cooler, too. My dry box with cell and mace is within easy reach. Alone on the river I couldn't be more relaxed, and even if I do encounter a scary looking person (and tattoos and piercings aren't on the scary list) I figure they assume my husband or other male companion is coming down behind me. By the time anyone figures out I'm traveling alone, I'm long gone.

[Troppus]

I like doing stuff solo, too. I make sure someone knows when I go out, and when to expect me back.

Ah, this. Left this out. I always let someone know when I hit the river or trail, and when I'm home. I send updates periodically on long trips. A fully charged cell phone and sticking to areas with service are a plus.

Really, a lot of your safety is tied to your posture/attitude as well as having confidence that you are prepared for changing weather, strangers, bears/cats/coyotes/off-leash dogs. If you know what you are doing, and look like you know what you are doing, you are one step ahead of obstacles.

[chappachula]

I like hiking and camping. One of the safety rules. .is that you don’t go hiking by yourself. So at the moment I don’t do much hiking because I seldom have a friend to go with?

You're overly cautious. Obviously the safety level is higher if you have a friend with you. But the safety level is still pretty darn good if you're by yourself (assuming that you are experienced and know what you're doing).
The most dangerous part of going on a camping trip is the highway driving to the national park, not the trail walking after you arrive.

The problem isn't the safety/ lack of rescue. The problem is your (and your family's!) reaction to bad news if something happens. We all accept it as normal if you die in a car accident...we bury our loved ones, grieve for a a while and get over it.
But most families don't accept it as normal if you die from a bear attack or disappear after falling off a cliff. They might not find your body to bury, so they'll grieve a lot longer, and it will be harder to get over it.

But the chances of that are so slim that it's not worth giving up a favorite activity that you enjoy.

[pendgwen]

I like doing stuff solo, too. I make sure someone knows when I go out, and when to expect me back.

Yeah, this is what I was considering changing to. Get a friend to be my safety buddy by phone even if I can't find someone to come play with me.

[Turble]

I think the key is the huge difference between eastern hiking areas and the huge western wilderness. You can hike the Appalachian Trail through PA and NJ and never be in a place where you can't hear car traffic, while out west it's possible to get scary-panicky lost in half an hour.

I hike to be alone. When I hiked in Oregon, California, Nevada and Utah, I did indeed go well prepared, even for a short day hike. Now that I'm back in PA, I take off for a day in the woods with some water and a sandwich … my survival kit consists of a small pocket knife and a lighter.

IMHO, if you are experienced at hiking the Pacific NW wilderness you are more than capable of taking care of yourself in the wilds of New Jersey. I suggest you spend about the same amount of time worrying about falling down and breaking your neck in the woods that you spend worrying about doing the same thing in your bathroom.

[China Guy]

I used to go on solo tredks in Tibet without a real map back in the 1980's. I think you're being overly cautious. Sounds like you're hiking for at most a couple of hours in a non-serious wilderness area that probably has cell coverage. That said, Going with a hike buddy is certainly a good idea though.

If you want to be cautious going solo, file a a pre-planned route, stick to it, and make sure someone you trust that will get a search going if you're overtime.

[Zeldar]

To me it really depends on where I'm hiking. I always prefer to have a partner to go hiking with in the first place but not having someone I'd choose a more traveled(to me usually translates to less interesting) place to go.

I think if you are hiking on frequently hiked paths in an area with cell phone reception, you could forgo the buddy.

I'm in this camp. Where you go and how long you plan to be there are factors that weigh in favor of being alone if it's not overnight and not too remote from civilization.

My experience is not to go by, but I limit my "hiking" these days to city and state parks and for 10 miles or less at a time. I don't like company on such walks.

If I were going to be overnight or on a longer walk I'd want company. A friend and I might have died on a backpacking trip in the Smokies back in the 70's when I was in much better shape but far from being in good shape. Had it not been for each other, we would have gotten hypothermia and probably not survived a late October night.

ETA: If you want excuses not to go solo just see 127 Hours! http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1542344/

[Cat Whisperer]

I think somewhere in the middle is probably the right place. If you do go out and get lost, even if you're not concerned about yourself, you WILL be causing a lot of trouble for a lot of other people who will be out looking for you. We're an hour away from the Canadian Rockies here; I can go out and hike on trails that really are just a walk in the woods and are very well-travelled, or I can head to the back country and never be seen again. Telling someone when you're leaving and returning is a good idea.

[Telemark]

I solo hike all the time, rarely in winter but often in spring/summer/fall. I'm comfortable hiking alone and I enjoy the solitude. But on the trails around here it's hard to go too far without running into someone. Still, I've gone for hours without seeing anyone.

I'm equipped and trained well enough to take care of myself for most emergencies. Yes, it's possible that something could happen where I would need a second person but that's a small risk I'm willing to take. The further I am from assistance the more risk-averse I am, but everyone has their own comfort level.

Cell phones are nice but they often won't get reception where I go. I carry a first aid kit, extra food and water, and some limited overnight gear depending on the route and weather.

[Busy Scissors]

I think they're being foolhardy. Even if you get cellphone reception everywhere you hike, and even if you keep your phone charged, you just don't know...there's a risk of dropping your phone, and not being able to reach it. Or smashing it. Or falling and severing an artery in a place you can't place a tourniquet yourself. Even if you're on a trail where people pass you every hour, a lot could happen in that hour.

Hiking with a buddy won't eliminate all risks, but it does better your odds.

:rolleyes: Don't forget to wear a helmet on the trail, you know - in case a meteor hits you on the heid.

Another one here who likes going into the mountains on their own - Scotland mainly. So the OP does sound excessively cautious to me, but that's not meant as any kind of judgement. Depends entirely on your experience - you need good mountain craft to get out into the wilderness. The weather is the real difference-maker. The Scottish hills can be remote, and it rains a lot, but they're very approachable in the spring and summer (midges excepted.) Winter is a different story.
So it's sensible to recognise that you don't fancy going out solo, but it wouldn't hurt to dip a toe in the water given that the OP already knows the ropes of responsible hiking. Just work up to things.

Attitudes could be different for men and women as well. I'd not think anything of staying out in the hills in a bothy full of hairy-arsed Scotsmen. I know some women who're the same - but I imagine their thought processes must be a little different.

[A bothy is a small hut in the Scottish hills, usually not explicitly identified on maps, that can be used as overnight shelter for hill walkers and mountaineers.]

[monstro]

I do urban hiking alone all the time. Or if I'm at a state park during a busy part of the year and the trails are easy.

But I would never hike Grand Canyon alone. I'm just not comfortable taking on that level of risk.

I know some people (male and female) who wouldn't be caught dead walking downtown at night all alone. I do it all the time. I'd probably be more creeped out walking in a rural area at night than in a city. Not because I'm scared of a rapist in the bushes, but because walking in pitch black darkness, even with a flashlight, just doesn't seem like a good idea for someone with weak ankles and stumbly feet.

So you kind of have to know what your weaknesses are (do you get lost easily, for instance?) before calculating the risks of doing any type of activity alone.

[Troppus]

pendgwen, what are the factors that make you nervous? Ungroomed trails? Encounters with strangers or wildlife? Dogs?

Maybe we can suggest the best equipment to wear/carry with you.

A can of pepper spray can be found in the outdoor section of most stores like Dick's, Wal-mart, Kmart, and gun shops. You might also find an old, discarded television, extend the antenna and bend it back and forth until it snaps near the base. (Or cut it, if you have the tool for it.) sand the rough edge a bit, and collapse it. Now you have a lightweight, telescoping whip to carry with you.

Also, if anyone approaches you with questions, you can say that your husband/friend/wife/rest of your party is behind you, dragging their feet. If a lie deflects an uncomfortable situation, do it shamelessly.

[pendgwen]

pendgwen, what are the factors that make you nervous? Ungroomed trails? Encounters with strangers or wildlife? Dogs?


It's not that I'm nervous about anything in particular. It's that this was taught to me as a standard safety rule and I never really questioned it because I always had enough friends and family around that I could find a hiking buddy pretty easily. Now I don't have people to go with so I was wondering what other people thought about hiking alone.

[Otara]

In Oz its not unusual to use EPIRBs' because mobile phone coverage doesnt go far out of cities - maybe those are an option for extra peace of mind?

Otara

[633squadron]

I like hiking and camping. One of the safety rules that I was taught growing up is that you don’t go hiking by yourself

Depends on how far you're going, and alas, whether you're male or female. I wouldn't be concerned about hiking on my own, even in the wilderness, but I'm 6'1" and 260. I can deal with situations. I'm mostly scared of homo sapiens.

For a few hours hike in the woods, where I expect to see other hikers, I'd certainly be willing to hike alone. I'd probably bring a whistle.

If I went out into the wilderness or on a backpacking trip, I'd tell someone my plan and stick to my plan, with the idea that they would alert the authorities if I didn't check in on time.

To add to this: I ski alone, but I never go into the trees alone. I never have and never will dive alone, because it's an excellent way to die needlessly.

[Troppus]

Depends on how far you're going, and alas, whether you're male or female. I wouldn't be concerned about hiking on my own, even in the wilderness, but I'm 6'1" and 260. I can deal with situations. I'm mostly scared of homo sapiens.



Although I agree with the fear of homo sapiens vs. critters comment, plenty females of the species can deal with situations, too. And do, on the daily. Even little ones. Like me. Logged 41 miles in the last month on the river, sans companion. Quite a few solo hiking miles as well.

[Jaledin]

It's not that I'm nervous about anything in particular. It's that this was taught to me as a standard safety rule and I never really questioned it because I always had enough friends and family around that I could find a hiking buddy pretty easily. Now I don't have people to go with so I was wondering what other people thought about hiking alone.

Standard safety rule. Not necessarily standard practice -- lots of people (including me) go for walks in the woods to be "alone."

2x standard: if woman, and not resembling Sanchez from Aliens in attitude and skills, don't do it. Too many fuckjects out there. If heap strong man with skills (especially navigating), then what's the prob? Well, there have been in the PNW some grisly attacks on solo male outdoorsmen -- recently, a brutal near murder of a lone skier -- so, maybe the 2x standard doesn't really apply. If you're a strong and are willing and (maybe) able to kill another human or two to survive, maybe that should be the rule.

[Jaledin]

That sounded poor -- navigating (with map and compass) is a requirement (and I mean I wouldn't backpack with anyone who doesn't know how to do it on their own, at least in the backcountry) for both sexes.

If uncomfortable, don't do it, might be another rule. There *are* hiking clubs and things like that, which are probably pretty chill people having fun while knowing what they're doing, to find trail pardners.

[Troppus]

So, Jaledin and 633squadraon, we weak little ol' women should stay indoors and only venture out into the world in the company of big, strong men. Is that right? By the way, how in the world are you two getting internet access back in 1950?

pendgwen, stay in your comfort zone. Take a partner for hard hikes, class 3 and above water, diving, black diamond skiing, and bear wrestling. For an easy to intermediate hike or bike ride, flat water paddle, or camping trip in a park area: fly solo if your skillset fits the environment.

I'll be damned if I'd let some outdated chauvinist attitudes prevent me from taking a walk. Seriously guys, come on. I've been hiking, biking, paddling, camping, swimming, and running alone since I was 15. 20 years later and I weigh about a buck twenty-five/thirty, still cute, still unafraid and independent. Tell you what: you guys get back in the kitchen and make me some pie. I've got outdoor shit to do.

ETA: didn't see Jaledin's ETA. Thanks, buddy, for your revision. I agree.

[Dallas Jones]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had. And you were about to turn around and head back to the trail head because it's getting late.

Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because you weren't going to be gone long enough to need one. Even though you are in good physical condition you are getting dehydrated and exhausted.

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.

That's the way it usually goes here in Oregon, every week.

No, you are not being overly cautious.

[Troppus]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had. And you were about to turn around and head back to the trail head because it's getting late.

Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because you weren't going to be gone long enough to need one. Even though you are in good physical condition you are getting dehydrated and exhausted.

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.

That's the way it usually goes here in Oregon, every week.

No, you are not being overly cautious.

Eh, you could just saw off the offending appendage and walk for help a la Aron Ralston. Seriously people, there are risks in our daily operations far worse than falling down in the woods. An ankle can be turned stepping off a curb. Many elderly or infirm people have fallen and can't get up (so the advertisements tell us) Car wrecks, mugging, lightning, chicken bones, home invasions, strokes...something bad could happen to any of us at any time in the middle of a crowded city block.

We could cower in our basements hoping nothing bad ever happens, or we could see the world. Think quietly. Appreciate nature. Listen to the birds. Sit under a tree. Fill our lungs with clean air. Get some exercise and some much-needed alone time. The last forty years have made us overly cautious, but there is a whole world outside that we can't appreciate through a window. Precautions are wise. Preparation, skillsets, and back-up plans are a must. But some of us need to go outside. Be alone. Experience the world without technological clutter. Meditate. It's a beautiful thing, really, and worth experiencing.

[Jaledin]

Dallas Jones] that's exactly why good experience and ability is vital. I live in OR too, and it saddens me even on well-traveled paths along the Gorge people run into problems that (sometimes, not always -- shit happens) might have been prevented or the risk lessened.

Troppus it wasn't my ETA that was meant to be a correction -- that was my original intent with my first post, written before I saw yours. It was meant to be sarcastic, and my second post was meant to clarify the one spot where it was inadvertently sexist. Of course there are badass women just like there are badass men who can deal with human problems. I'd put an experienced outdoorswoman against some candyass-skilled would-be titan male anyday, and trust them with my life.

I think there are, however, some particular dangers that face females outdoors vis-a-vis the menfolk that should be relevant to any discussion. Men being what they can be, and all. I'd advise some serious assessment of one's own ability to deliver a strong kick to the balls to my own sister, if it were ever in question. Likewise, men should be aware of that whole "Deliverance" thing and be damned handy with their bow and arrow.

[Jaledin]

We could cower in our basements hoping nothing bad ever happens, or we could see the world. Think quietly. Appreciate nature. Listen to the birds. Sit under a tree. Fill our lungs with clean air. Get some exercise and some much-needed alone time. The last forty years have made us overly cautious, but there is a whole world outside that we can't appreciate through a window. Precautions are wise. Preparation, skillsets, and back-up plans are a must. But some of us need to go outside. Be alone. Experience the world without technological clutter. Meditate. It's a beautiful thing, really, and worth experiencing.

QFT. That was really pretty, and I wish I saw it before I replied -- I would have much rather have that been the last word, rather than mine. Just as true, I imagine, for men who don't get out much and worry about things, as for women who feel themselves somehow not up to the "challenges," for various reasons. It's really about people, which is why I like this passage so much.

[Dallas Jones]

Perhaps I didn't make my point clearly.

The "Buddy System" really is a good practice. Unexpected things happen and with another person around these unexpected things are minor, alone they can be major, devastating, life treatening problems.

No one should live their life afraid, but prudence is a good companion.

I knew a girl named Prudence, and she was.

[Enginerd]

If uncomfortable, don't do it, might be another rule.

I think this is what it comes down to. There's obviously some location and distance that you feel comfortable walking by yourself, so start there and build on it. You don't have to jump from suburban sidewalks to a 15 mile bushwhack - just go farther than you did yesterday and then see how you feel. If it doesn't feel right for any reason, turn around.

You like hiking, you're experienced, and you're prepared. The fact that you're asking this question at all indicates that you probably won't get overly confident and put yourself in a bad situation. Give it a shot and see if you like it.

[billfish678]

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.
.

This is what I came to make a point about.

Even in the dead of summer, hypothermia can be a risk. Try this little experiment one day at home in the middle of the summer. Wait till its raining real good. Grab a lawn chair and few cheap beers and go out and sit in it in say shorts and a cotton tshirt (what you might wear on hot summers day hiking). See how long it is till your cold. Now imagine being like that all day or all night or even longer. Even if it didn't kill you, you most very likely will be extremely miserable.

Then think about how much fun that would be in the spring, fall, or winter when its even colder. Be prepared with good breatheable dry gear and some spare warmer SYNTHETIC clothing. Also a good idea is to carry your water in multiple containers. It doesnt do any good to bring plenty of water and have one leak make you loose it all (I've seen this many a time).

Yes, I think its okay to hike solo. Often times I think many folks think they are safe doing "sports" because they have a buddy but about the only safe thing about their activity IS their buddy. They haven't really prepared in any real or helpful fashion. But you do need to be prepared and bit more cautious and aware of what you are doing if you are going solo.

[pendgwen]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had. And you were about to turn around and head back to the trail head because it's getting late.

Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because you weren't going to be gone long enough to need one. Even though you are in good physical condition you are getting dehydrated and exhausted.

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.

That's the way it usually goes here in Oregon, every week.

No, you are not being overly cautious.

This is the kind of scenario that was presented as the reason to always hike with a buddy. But the majority opinion seems to be that I'm being excessively cautious. Thank you all for providing justification for what I wanted to do. I'm going camping tonight. Just car camping, just 1 night, letting a friend know where I'm going. The same friend was supposed to go camping with me this week and bailed. I went to the REI sale last weekend and I have a brand new tent that I want to try out.

[BigT]

Why exactly would you be stupid enough to walk on a rock that way? You can see the ground in front of you, just like you can when you walk anywhere else. The idea that somehow being in the wilderness means you can't tell where to walk and where not to walk is silly. It's just walking, and we humans have been doing it for millions of years.

The scenarios that actually make sense are getting stuck in mud, losing your footing because the ground is wet, or (the biggest one) getting lost. Turning your ankle because you don't know how to walk should be nowhere near the top.

[monstro]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had. And you were about to turn around and head back to the trail head because it's getting late.

Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because you weren't going to be gone long enough to need one. Even though you are in good physical condition you are getting dehydrated and exhausted.

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.

That's the way it usually goes here in Oregon, every week.

No, you are not being overly cautious.

OK, this is like one of the worse case scenarios that could happen. But it doesn't have to happen if you're hiking alone. A lot this is just plain common sense.

Don't hike more than you can chew. If you know a trail is categorized as "moderately difficult", promise yourself you'll only go so far before turning back. And make sure you don't wait too late in the day to do so. Turn back when other people are going to be turning back. Take the main trail so that you'll be more likely to be seen. Get a map of the area before setting off.

Don't hike in the most remote places in the world.

Carry a cell phone even if you will think it will be worthless (when I worked in the Everglades, there were weird areas where we would have weak service and just a few feet away, it would drop off completely.) They also have personal locator beacons that operate through satellite technology and are constantly monitored. If you're nervous, you can always let park personnel know that you are in the park alone and will be carrying a beacon. Some parks actually let hikers borrow beacons. Also, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Carry a pack with an emergency kit, including a small blanket and energy bars. This is not only for you, but in case you find someone else on the trail that needs help. Even if you were traveling with someone else, it would be wise to carry a kit.

If you're a clutz, hike with that in mind. Wear hiking boots instead of Tevas (I love my Tevas, but they trip me up like nothing else). Use a walking stick. It can also double as a weapon.

I love hiking with my mp3 player, but I don't think this is wise. You need to have all senses doing their duty to protect you. Also, you'll miss the birdsong.

Yes, you can twist your ankle and end up dying of exposure. But that happens when you don't prepare and you do stupid things (like traveling off path).

I've never let my gender keep me from being an adventurer. I just pick the lane I'm most comfortable in and stick to it.

[monstro]

Why exactly would you be stupid enough to walk on a rock that way? You can see the ground in front of you, just like you can when you walk anywhere else. The idea that somehow being in the wilderness means you can't tell where to walk and where not to walk is silly. It's just walking, and we humans have been doing it for millions of years.

The scenarios that actually make sense are getting stuck in mud, losing your footing because the ground is wet, or (the biggest one) getting lost. Turning your ankle because you don't know how to walk should be nowhere near the top.

Uh, yes it should, BigT. Have you ever been on a wilderness trail? Even on the most beaten trails, there are all kinds of things that can twist an ankle, especially if you have weak ankles. Like roots or loose rocks or abrupt unevenness. You might see a pine cone and stick out your foot to playfully kick it, and then oops! Sprained ankle! Shoot, there have been times when I've walked down sidewalks in the city and have damn near twisted my ankle for no reason at all. It's not a trivial concern at all. The dying of exposure thing is taking the drama up a notch, but not the twisted ankle.

[Telemark]

Buddies are nice, but so is solo time in the wilderness. Bad things can happen, but you can also take precautions to take care of yourself in the event that they do. A twisted ankle out in the woods isn't a death sentence. You may end up spending an unplanned night in the woods but that's not the worst thing. With training and some simple supplies you can survive some pretty bad things, which are extremely unlikely and can be further avoided with care.

No one is saying that there aren't risks to solo hiking, but having a buddy with you is no guarantee of safety either. Do you really think that having someone with you when you're 6 hours away from the road with no shelter or communication is significantly better than being their alone? Another person isn't a magic bullet. If that person goes for help it's still a minimum of 12 hours before anyone is there to help you.

Take precautions, learn safety and first aid, and stay within your comfort zone. With time and experience that comfort zone may expand or contract. Solo hiking may not be for you, but lots of us (male and female) do so often.

[chizzuk]

I recently read a book by Ed Viesturs, an elite mountain climber who has climbed all 14 mountains that are higher than 8000m (26,246 ft) without oxygen and made it down alive. On Annapurna and K2 in particular, this is quite a feat, as the fatality rate on those is about 40% and 27%, respectively.

Obviously you aren't doing this, but I thought his point was still applicable. He pointed out that he's climbed with a lot of people in his life and everyone has their own notion of "acceptable risk." And one person choosing to go ahead and do something while someone else refuses doesn't mean one of them is wrong and the other is right, that one is overly cautious or the other is reckless, it just means that each of them has a different idea of what their personal level of "acceptable risk" is. The real cardinal sin is overriding your own judgment and going beyond that. For some people, hiking alone with a cell phone is fine. That may make you uncomfortable, and according to this dude, there's nothing wrong with what either of you are doing. I don't think I'd let other people talk you out of your inner sense of "acceptable risk."

Edit: There are obvious exceptions that are outside the spectrum of "acceptable risk," such as one story he recounted about watching someone rappel down a cliff using a ski pole as an anchor. Of course it couldn't hold him and he fell a few thousand feet to his death. That was objectively stupid. But I don't think your hikes fall into that realm of decision-making.

[Troppus]

This is the kind of scenario that was presented as the reason to always hike with a buddy. But the majority opinion seems to be that I'm being excessively cautious. Thank you all for providing justification for what I wanted to do. I'm going camping tonight. Just car camping, just 1 night, letting a friend know where I'm going. The same friend was supposed to go camping with me this week and bailed. I went to the REI sale last weekend and I have a brand new tent that I want to try out.

I'm excited for you, and a little jealous! Report back if you find time, I'm interested in hearing if you felt comfortable and secure or if being alone caused you to feel anxious. Either way, I'm sure this quick trip will let you know if solo forays suit you.

[chappachula]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had.Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because
No, you are not being overly cautious.

Well, yeah, you could sprain your ankle...but why would you have no clothing, no food and no light?
If, like the OP, you know enough about hiking safety to take a buddy, you know enough about safety to carry a backpack filled with the right supplies for that specific hike.

The problems arise from naivety. The OP is exactly the opposite--somebody who knows what he is doing and carefully considers the safety aspects before he starts.
No need to be overly cautious. Go hiking, go alone...just carry the right gear and know your abilities.

[Cat Whisperer]

And be aware that the people who have to come rescue you will charge you for the service. :)

[Jaledin]

Have you ever been on a wilderness trail? Even on the most beaten trails, there are all kinds of things that can twist an ankle, especially if you have weak ankles.


There are loads of true stories about extremely experienced backpackers or hikers who just had one step which may, objectively, have not seemed dangerous a prima facie, but turned out fatal. Shit happens, sad as it is, but c'est la vie. Nothing against their skill, but anything can happen (IMHO especially on snow).

ETA: and fuck that "need the hiking boots" shit :) Love the approach shoes. J/K, obviously.

[kayaker]

List of people who have circumnavigated the globe. Solo. (http://www.joshuaslocumsocietyintl.org/solo/solotable.htm) Includes one individual who only has one leg.

Just sayin.

[Quercus]

You step on a rock the wrong way and fold your ankle into the worst sprain you have ever had. And you were about to turn around and head back to the trail head because it's getting late.

Now you cannot hobble back before nightfall, you have light clothing, no food, and the weather has taken a sudden turn for the worse. You don't have a light because you weren't going to be gone long enough to need one. Even though you are in good physical condition you are getting dehydrated and exhausted.

You are wet, cold, in pain, and try to find a place to make it through the night. And you forgot to tell anyone you were going for a hike so they don't start looking for you for a couple of days...after you have died.

That's the way it usually goes here in Oregon, every week.

No, you are not being overly cautious.The real problem in this situation is not being alone; it's having light clothing and being unprepared for the weather, maybe slightly exacerbated by not bringing enough water and by turning around far too late (food is irrelevant for anything less than three days or so).

I mean, really, how could a partner have helped here?
I'm assuming the partner is in the same shape (too few clothes, no water), because otherwise, the moral isn't 'always hike with a partner', it's 'hiking with a partner can be easier because you can split carrying stuff', which is very different.
If it's too far to the trailhead for you to hop/hobble there, how quickly could the partner get out and return with help? Could they return and find you before morning? If not, then you're dead anyway, right?



For the OP: I'm happy solo hiking, camping and backpacking. In deep winter, I won't solo more than a short few miles hike, and if I was more than a days walk from a moderately well -traveled road or trail I might decide not to go solo (the season and other things are going to factor in). At least, that's the decision tree before I got knee issues. I wouldn't solo very far these days until I've gone at least that distance and difficulty recently without my legs falling apart, but that's probably a decent rule of thumb in any physical state.

[Swallowed My Cellphone]

pendgwen, stay in your comfort zone. Take a partner for hard hikes, class 3 and above water, diving, black diamond skiing, and bear wrestling. For an easy to intermediate hike or bike ride, flat water paddle, or camping trip in a park area: fly solo if your skillset fits the environment.

I'll be damned if I'd let some outdated chauvinist attitudes prevent me from taking a walk. Seriously guys, come on. I've been hiking, biking, paddling, camping, swimming, and running alone since I was 15. 20 years later and I weigh about a buck twenty-five/thirty, still cute, still unafraid and independent. Tell you what: you guys get back in the kitchen and make me some pie. I've got outdoor shit to do.My wife and my sister both do a lot of solo stuff. Depends on the environment, eg/ they don't solo hike in bear or mountain lion areas where, male or female, hiking alone is not recommended. They don't hike alone in remote wilderness either, where spraining your ankle can mean a long, long wait for help to happen by. They've both gone on solo camping tips too.

They both always make sure someone knows where they're going and when they're expected back.

[Cat Whisperer]

<snip>
I mean, really, how could a partner have helped here?
I'm assuming the partner is in the same shape (too few clothes, no water), because otherwise, the moral isn't 'always hike with a partner', it's 'hiking with a partner can be easier because you can split carrying stuff', which is very different.
If it's too far to the trailhead for you to hop/hobble there, how quickly could the partner get out and return with help? Could they return and find you before morning? If not, then you're dead anyway, right?<snip>The friend will go back a lot faster than you can hobble, and they can get help for you and direct them right to where you are so you minimize how much time you spend getting exposure (especially if you haven't told anyone where you are or when you're expected back).

I've done some solo hikes myself, in Northern Manitoba where if I got turned around and lost, there was literally no one between me thousands of miles of untouched forests. It occurred to me on one of these hikes that if I took a wrong turn, I was likely to never be found again, so decided to be more careful with that.

[Hello Again]

The friend will go back a lot faster than you can hobble, and they can get help for you and direct them right to where you are so you minimize how much time you spend getting exposure (especially if you haven't told anyone where you are or when you're expected back).

I've done some solo hikes myself, in Northern Manitoba where if I got turned around and lost, there was literally no one between me thousands of miles of untouched forests. It occurred to me on one of these hikes that if I took a wrong turn, I was likely to never be found again, so decided to be more careful with that.

The point remains, in the kind of places the OP would be hiking -- state parks near densely populated urban areas, and trails that join up to the Appalachian -- you can hardly go 10 minutes without seeing someone on your average saturday in the summer.

[Cat Whisperer]

The point remains, in the kind of places the OP would be hiking -- state parks near densely populated urban areas, and trails that join up to the Appalachian -- you can hardly go 10 minutes without seeing someone on your average saturday in the summer.
Oh, yeah, that's different than hiking in the northern wilderness. I'd still say hike with someone in case you get hurt or sick, but if there are people all over who can send a ranger back to help you, that's probably good enough.

[Ellen Cherry]

I'm adding "outdoor adventuring solo" to the thread title so people have a better idea of the topic.

Ellen

[panache45]

A few years ago, I spent 24 days hiking solo through Southwestern National Parks. At the time I was over 60, out of shape and totally inexperienced. The only time I got into serious trouble was in Horseshoe Canyon (yes, that's where Aron Halston had to amputate his right arm). Not only was I solo, but nobody knew I was going there. And I did not encounter any other person the entire day. This was a HUGE mistake, and could have cost me my life in several ways. My physical and mental endurance was rigorously tested, and I'm amazed that I survived that day at all.

[EmAnJ]

I'm the person that will rescue you when something happens, if we find you in time. I'm on the Board of Directors for our local Search and Rescue organization and also a search team lead. We mostly do urban searches (lost kids, wandering elderly, evidence), but also do mountain search and rescue and civil emergency response.

The majority of our mountain terrain search and rescues involve single people who were injured (the rest are usually just lost). About half to 3/4 of those result in recovery missions instead of rescues. Often, someone falls and breaks or twists something and is just off the pathway, and they don't have cell phone reception, as is usually the case in the valleys or lower spots of the mountains, and sometimes even up top.

The people who survived had something close to the ten essentials, as listed near the beginning of the thread, so were able to get through at least one night. You can almost bet that you'll be out at least one night if something happens and you can't call for help, even longer if you didn't give anyone a clear plan of where you were going. Keep in mind that if you've strayed off a well known pathway, even if you can use your cell phone, you may not be able to accurately describe your location.

I bought my husband a SPOT (http://www.findmespot.com/en/) for Christmas and it was one of the best investments we've made. Check it out if you want to go solo. It's not very expensive and is a HUGE peace of mind, plus, it's satellite, so much better coverage in the back country. Another tip is that text messages on cell phones may get through if a call doesn't, even better if you happen to be moving around a bit (which you're not really supposed to do if lost, but if you're moving around making an SOS or something, or heading towards a valley or clearing for better line of sight).

If you are determined to go solo, take at least a few hours of survival training, be prepared, and make sure you're the type of person that has the will to live through a few days in the event that something goes wrong. You might also want to check on the way rescue works in your area - do you pay, is it volunteer, or is it covered by the government? Here, it's usually covered by the province, through it sounds like they are trying to change that. In some jurisdictions, if you don't take reasonable steps to ensure your safety in the backcountry, you can be charged thousands of dollars for a rescue, so make sure you're ready for that too, just in case.

[Troppus]

Great post, EmAnJ, and thanks for the link to the Spot. Though I seldom go off trail and most rivers I float are on public rather than state land with frequent houses/cabins/farms on either or both sides, the Spot is something I definitely need.

[The Falling Reverend]

Standard safety rule. Not necessarily standard practice -- lots of people (including me) go for walks in the woods to be "alone."

2x standard: if woman, and not resembling Sanchez from Aliens in attitude and skills, don't do it. Too many fuckjects out there. If heap strong man with skills (especially navigating), then what's the prob? Well, there have been in the PNW some grisly attacks on solo male outdoorsmen -- recently, a brutal near murder of a lone skier -- so, maybe the 2x standard doesn't really apply. If you're a strong and are willing and (maybe) able to kill another human or two to survive, maybe that should be the rule.

Do you mean Vasquez?


But as others have said, if you're on a state park type trail that's clearly marked and well traveled then you are probably good to go by yourself. If you are on a backwoods wilderness trail then a partner is probably a good idea.

[Telemark]

If you are on a backwoods wilderness trail then a partner is probably a good idea.
Actually, standard recommendations have been 3 people so you have one to stay with the injured party and one to go for help. With one buddy you're left with the question of staying to assist someone who needs medical attention versus going out to get more advanced medical help and rescue.

This discussion also tends to ignore the benefits of hiking alone - peace and solitude, seeing more wildlife, time to think by yourself, ability to set your own pace, etc. It comes at a cost of safety (although I'd like to think it's less expensive than most folks think if you are trained, equipped, and experienced) but it has a big plus side as well.

[EmAnJ]

Just wanted to also post a quick cautionary tale for those who are saying that if you are on frequented trails, you'll be ok if something happens. Of course, you take the risks you are comfortable with, and injuries on busy trails often end up just fine.

A few years ago in early spring an experienced woman headed out from home on her cross country skis with her yoga mat and intentions on following the trail for an hour or so to a clearing that she often went to to practice yoga and meditate. It was a fairly warm spring day. The trail she was on is very popular and is part of the route that our Olympians and locals use daily, so pretty safe. She had also left her travel plan at home and indicated when she would be back.

She didn't come back later that morning as planned. By the afternoon, seach and rescue was involved and out looking for her, as were folks that frequent the trail. We knew where she was going and the trail she was taking. Keep in mind that this is early spring, when the sun goes down around the dinner hour, and searches are called off once the sun goes down.

A hasty search was done up and down the trail (a couple of people head out on the trail to do a quick search for the person). No luck. Search teams were organized and spread out from the trail in a line. In situations like this, you have to find a balance between the urgency for rescue with the need for accuracy. In this case, the sun was going down, it was getting very cold, and we needed to find her as quickly as possible, as she likely wouldn't survive the night. Teams were instructed to look, yell, and listen. As the sun started going down, a 20 minute warning came over the radio. We were going to search for another 20 minutes, and then it would be called off for the night.

One team, relatively close to the trail head, decided to focus on the yelling and listening. Walk a few steps, call her name, listen for 15 to 20 seconds, repeat. Time was ticking down. The team lead, at the end of the line, thought she heard something. She hollers for the team to stop and yells the woman's name. She hears something again. Starts running in the direction of the voice.

They found her with minutes to a search call off. She was not 20 feet off the pathway with a broken femur.

What had happened is she slid on some ice (typical in spring) and off a very steep section of the pathway in to some trees, about a 15 foot drop. She broke her leg and was in a lot of pain. She had her cell phone with her - no service. After she gathered herself, drank some water, and ate some food, she folded up her yoga mat and sat on it. She started dragging herself towards the parking lot, a few kilometers away, and somehow ended up deeper in to the brush and away from the trail. She did this for hours, through a creek, through snow that was 5 feet deep, over fallen trees. We couldn't see her because she was far enough off the trail and low enough to the ground that she was within the brush, and she was a moving target. It was windy enough that we couldn't hear her calls for help, and it covered the ski tracks heading off the trail. Keep in mind that search teams will never get 100% probability of discovery (how likely it is we'll find the victim) in searches, and you can miss a person in certain situations (deep snow, heavy brush, wind, darkness, etc.). When she was finally found, she was so weak from the physical exertion and hypothermia, she only had a few hours left.

She was prepared for a day trip, was experienced, had her cell phone with her, and left her travel plan, yet came minutes from death. I'm not saying that this will happen to you, but it does happen, and doesn't always turn out for the best.

[Troppus]

EmAnJ, I keep a whistle, pepper spray, multi-tool and cell phone within easy reach at all times; around my neck during rougher terrain/water. Goes without saying I have food/water/all weather jacket/first aid kit as well, but are there any other lightweight "must have" items you recommend for trips longer than a couple hours? Flares? Air horn?

I can't stress enough how much I love this time alone, and that I've successfully hiked, paddled, and camped alone for more than half my life with no emergencies. But for the peace of mind of those that love me, anything else I should toss in a dry bag?

[Hello Again]

She was prepared for a day trip, was experienced, had her cell phone with her, and left her travel plan, yet came minutes from death. I'm not saying that this will happen to you, but it does happen, and doesn't always turn out for the best.
Is it just me, or did she completely screw the pooch in this story by leaving the trail? Wouldn't you have found her almost immediately, otherwise? Isn't "stay on the trail" pretty much, "help I broke my leg in the woods 101"?

[EmAnJ]

EmAnJ, I keep a whistle, pepper spray, multi-tool and cell phone within easy reach at all times; around my neck during rougher terrain/water. Goes without saying I have food/water/all weather jacket/first aid kit as well, but are there any other lightweight "must have" items you recommend for trips longer than a couple hours? Flares? Air horn?

I can't stress enough how much I love this time alone, and that I've successfully hiked, paddled, and camped alone for more than half my life with no emergencies. But for the peace of mind of those that love me, anything else I should toss in a dry bag?

Orange garbage bag and some survival skills/lost person behavior training. The orange garbage bag is for both warmth and visibility. Basically, you cut out a hole for your head, get in, and sit down. It'll keep some warmth in, and make you really easy to spot. You'd be surprised at how hard it is to see people, even from the air.

Knowing how to behave if you do become lost is important too. We have certain profiles we use when deciding on a search method (depends on age, ability, mental awareness, type of terrain, etc. - they all behave differently when lost), so if you know what we're looking for, it'll help. For instance, don't move around! Have you heard about the Quebec man who is suing because he and his wife got lost and his wife died? (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/05/08/bc-quebec-man-kicking-horse-lawsuit.html) One of the main reasons they didn't find them in time is because he built an SOS (which was spotted by air) and then left. He kept moving around! Knowing what to do and what not to do is important.

Also, the aformentioned SPOT, if possible, as well as spare batteries for it. Seriously, the SPOT is so worth it, it should be mandatory! I can access a web page that shows updates every 10 minutes of where my husband is in the back country on google maps. He has buttons for letting me know he's ok, alerting me or others that something has gone wrong, or calling the authorities because something has gone really wrong and they need to be rescued. Worth every penny and more, especially for MY peace of mind.

[EmAnJ]

Is it just me, or did she completely screw the pooch in this story by leaving the trail? Wouldn't you have found her almost immediately, otherwise? Isn't "stay on the trail" pretty much, "help I broke my leg in the woods 101"?


Yeah, but people behave differently is situations like that, especially if you're hurt. Maybe she thought she could make it? Maybe she didn't think anyone would find her 15 feet down? Maybe moving kept her warm? Maybe she just wasn't thinking clearly?

When you are injured and/or lost, most people panic. They don't think logically or rationally, especially if they aren't prepared or trained.

[Troppus]

EmAnJ, this is really helpful. I have both survival and first aid training, plus bonus knowledge of wild edibles and such. The SPOT and the orange garbage bag are def on my list. Thanks so much for expert input!

[Algher]

Yep - my 10 essentials is now 11, adding in the SPOT unit. I have a SPOT II being delivered today for an upcoming hike through the backwoods of Yosemite. I won't be solo, but others will still appreciate being able to track me, and I like being able to hit the panic button!

As longs you start with the essentials, have SPOT unit (or its equivalent), and have your navigation nailed (topo, GPS unit, compass, marked trails, etc.) - go for it. I have done solo runs in Alaska, California and Montana - I was just always prepared.

[aruvqan]

EmAnJ, I keep a whistle, pepper spray, multi-tool and cell phone within easy reach at all times; around my neck during rougher terrain/water. Goes without saying I have food/water/all weather jacket/first aid kit as well, but are there any other lightweight "must have" items you recommend for trips longer than a couple hours? Flares? Air horn?

I can't stress enough how much I love this time alone, and that I've successfully hiked, paddled, and camped alone for more than half my life with no emergencies. But for the peace of mind of those that love me, anything else I should toss in a dry bag?

ultra chemlites (http://www.redesupply.com/p625/Glow-Stick:-Cyalume-Chem-Lights-Ultra-Bright-5-Minute/product_info.html), waterproof matches or lighter, and, oh I don't know - maybe a *COMPASS* might be useful. Survival kit (http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=survival+in+a+can&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=6968736610045841151&sa=X&ei=XT3tTfPULNCtgQeJ6qTgCQ&ved=0CEkQ8wIwAA) in a can is spiffy also.

[EmAnJ]

ultra chemlites (http://www.redesupply.com/p625/Glow-Stick:-Cyalume-Chem-Lights-Ultra-Bright-5-Minute/product_info.html), waterproof matches or lighter, and, oh I don't know - maybe a *COMPASS* might be useful. Survival kit (http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=survival+in+a+can&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=6968736610045841151&sa=X&ei=XT3tTfPULNCtgQeJ6qTgCQ&ved=0CEkQ8wIwAA) in a can is spiffy also.

A compass is only useful if you know how to use it! ;)

[Telemark]

A compass is only useful if you know how to use it! ;)

Thank you, that was going to be my line.

Safety equipment is great, and I always carry some depending on my hike route and weather forecast. But the most important piece if safety equipment is your brain. Know the terrain, the escape routes, stay calm, understand the risks around you, have knowledge of first aid and navigation, and know your limitations.

On most of my trips, an extra bit of food is more likely to keep my alert and aware and thus more likely to keep me from harm than carrying a Spot. Not that carrying a Spot is a bad thing, but you should realistically evaluate your risks and carry the appropriate tools for your situation. I know many people who hike with a gun, and it does afford some protection in some rather unlikely situations. But for that weight I could carry extra food and water, first aid supplies, or simply travel lighter and be less tired at the end of the day. There is no single right answer to these questions. There are hikes I have taken where a Spot would make perfect sense, it's just not my usual dayhike or overnight.

I just want to make sure people don't think "I have a cell phone and a Spot, I no longer need to get first aid training or learn how to use a compass or carry extra clothes."

[monstro]

Be careful when you step off the trail to pee. You laugh, but I slid down the side of very steep mountain doing that, and just happened to catch myself on a tree. Yes, with my pants down at my ankles.

Fortunately none of the people I was traveling with saw me before I could fix myself. They just heard me screaming.

[Troppus]

Be careful when you step off the trail to pee. You laugh, but I slid down the side of very steep mountain doing that, and just happened to catch myself on a tree. Yes, with my pants down at my ankles.

Fortunately none of the people I was traveling with saw me before I could fix myself. They just heard me screaming.

Ha, that's the truth! Someone in my region stepped off trail for a quiet moment of reflection and was tagged by a rattler. He was wearing cycling gear, not hiking boots/loose pants/etc so the snake caught bare skin. Whaddaya gonna do? We all have to pee sometimes. He received care quickly and was fine, but full alert mode should be employed even inches off a trail.

[Otara]

Whats the advantage of that SPOT over a personal locator beacon?

Seems to cost a bit less, but the yearly subscription would go over a PLB cost pretty quickly.

[Eats_Crayons]

We have what we call "the kit." It's a bit smaller than our first aid kit but it contains things needed if we were lost and had to unexpectedly spend the night in the woods. Off the of of my head, I believe it carries an emergency foil blanket, a signal, mirror, headlamp, whistle, compass, matches, a lighter that is actually more like a miniature blowtorch and lights in the worst conditions, Swiss Army knife, additional power bar(s), a couple water purification tablets, spare headlamp batteries... There are other things I don't remember... (possibly a bear bell?) It's not very big or heavy and is usually carried in the same pack as a water bladder. This is carried IN ADDITION to the gear we expect to actually need. For example, while hiking, I already have my Swiss army knife, headlamp, and lunch, but "the kit" is a complete and separate thing for emergencies only. Edit: We don't carry mace or any other weapon.

My partner and I do occasional solo trips. I'm 5'4" and about 125 lbs and she is perhaps an inch taller. Solo trips are based very much according to safety, ability, terrain, weather, and so on. We also make sure someone else knows our itinerary and route. We've taken orienteering workshops, and basic survival courses. On trails where you're likely to see SOMEONE within an hour or so, we don't worry so much, but more remote trails or winter trails, require a more planning and tend to be shorter. Snowshoeing in the backcountry for example, we'd choose a half-day route. I don't think I'd do a multi-day hiking route alone unless I had the dog with me and was on a route I new well. We've both car camped alone on many occasions.

[pendgwen]

I'm excited for you, and a little jealous! Report back if you find time, I'm interested in hearing if you felt comfortable and secure or if being alone caused you to feel anxious. Either way, I'm sure this quick trip will let you know if solo forays suit you.
I'm back. I went to Buttermilk Fall State Park, which is near Ithaca NY. I went hiking on the trails along the falls and had a nice time. The parks here are just a lot more developed than I'm used to. The first part of the trail was the steepest but it was also paved in a lot of places so that people were hauling strollers up it.. I also discovered that folding a tent neatly is a little harder with only one person.

[Troppus]

I'm back. I went to Buttermilk Fall State Park, which is near Ithaca NY. I went hiking on the trails along the falls and had a nice time. The parks here are just a lot more developed than I'm used to. The first part of the trail was the steepest but it was also paved in a lot of places so that people were hauling strollers up it.. I also discovered that folding a tent neatly is a little harder with only one person.

Did you mind beinig alone? I've seen travel pics of Buttermilk and it's beautiful.

[pendgwen]

Did you mind beinig alone? I've seen travel pics of Buttermilk and it's beautiful.
I would have liked having someone to chat with around the campfire. But staring into the coals and letting them mesmerize you is also nice.

[Martin Hyde]

As someone who essentially grew up playing in the woods I personally think there's no reason to be so worried about a trip into the wilderness.

First, the relative size is mostly unimportant. An inexperienced hiker can get lost in the mountains of western Virginia/eastern West Virginia just as completely as they can get lost anywhere west of the Mississippi. Many people who die in such situations don't really move in a very large area trying to find their way out, they do a lot of back tracking and circling around (intentionally or unintentionally.)

I'm all about not being stupid and taking certain safety precautions. At the same time, I have property in the mountains where myself and several family members and people we've known for years all have large lots that run together, you can walk 3-4 miles and never leave our collective property and we all have been known to go pretty deep out checking on things from time to time. I like to make sure no one has set anything illegal up or is doing something they shouldn't, and just to see if there's anything worth knowing. We all do it probably on average once or twice a year at different times and since we sort of stagger it it means all of the property owners collectively keep pretty well informed.

To me if I'm going to be worried I might trip and hurt myself and not make it back to a phone to the point I can't walk out into my own property without a survival kit then I better not ever climb a ladder or get in a car. If you look at the causes of accidental death in the United States, falls (mostly from ladders and such, or stairs), automobile accidents, and accidental poisonings are the biggest causes of accidental death by far.

I think if someone wants to hike out on a relatively known trail and do some camping or something, they shouldn't be paranoid about it. If you're hiking many many hours out into the wilderness or doing anything on the water then sure you need to bring basic survival gear, and I do that on longer hikes. But I don't necessarily agree that any trip into the woods needs to be treated as a potential catastrophe, I grew up in the woods and have great respect for its dangers but I don't feel I need to call someone and let them know I'm going out to check certain parts of my land or something like that.