So, you want to explore the outdoors more, but you have one issue. You don’t have anyone to go with because your friends are busy or are just not into outdoor activities! Well, please don’t fret, because solo hiking is always an option!
I know hiking alone can be intimidating, but honestly, it has been one of the most freeing things ever. Hiking is the perfect way to clear your mind and force yourself to be present in the current moment!
Now, I will not sit here and pretend to be any sort of expert, but what I can say is that since I have embraced hiking alone, I have seen a major shift in my mindset for the better.
However, regardless of all the positives that come with hiking alone, there are always precautions that one should consider prior to heading out on a trail alone.
Listed below you will find my tips that I follow whenever hiking alone. Some of these tips were learned through my own personal experience and others were learned from other travel bloggers!
Let’s dive in!
ALWAYS tell someone where you are going!
Seriously, this should be rule number one. Whether it’s a family member or even the ranger at the entrance, you should let someone know which trail you are taking and your expected return time prior to heading out.
Start with shorter trails.
If you are new to hiking, sticking to shorter trails is recommended. That way, you can determine which trail length and terrain is best for you. As you become more experienced, start challenging yourself to lengthier trails!
Stick to well-marked trails.
Try leaning toward trails that are moderately or heavily trafficked. These trails are most likely to be well marked and have other hikers on the trail as well. If you get lost or feel uncomfortable being alone, try to find a group of hikers and keep close by to them
Download hiking apps like AllTrails.
AllTrails is great because you can search for the best trails all while reviewing first-hand accounts of the trails. This app even offers an offline version, so you can still access the trail maps when you have no service.
Bring tons of WATER!
It is so important to have water when you are hiking, but more important when you are alone. Never put yourself when you become dehydrated and have no fluids handy! Like we used to say when I was a camp counselor, “if dehydration wins, we all lose.”
If you are a new to solo hiking or even an avid hiker, what are some of your tips to traveling alone? Please share them below in the comments!