Hiking with my Best Friend = Me!
by Laura
(Elgin, IL)
Backpacking the Ice Age Trail in Kettle Moraine North State Forest - Wisconsin - March 2012
For me, the benefits of solo hiking far outweigh any fears or difficulties. I can hike as long and as fast (or slow) as I please, without constantly wondering if my companion is enjoying himself or herself.
I solo hike at least twice a month, and hike with a companion less often. Here are my tips for a safe and enjoyable solo hike:
Plan ahead. Think through the entirety of the hike, check weather forecasts and don't discount "slight" storm possibilities. T-Storms, especially in humid parts of the country (I live in Northern Illinois and mostly hike in Wisconsin) can spawn quite quickly in the summer months. I almost always keep a pack cover and a light rain jacket in my pack. The extra ounces will only make me stronger - and drier! Similarly, I always bring a little more food and water than I think I will need. I keep simple fire starting material, mosquito spray and a lightweight headlamp in my pack even on day hikes.
Research new trails with a companion and hike them solo when you are familiar with them. I hike the same stretch of the Ice Age trail repeatedly (as it looks completely different as the seasons change). This familiarity means I know exactly where I am and how far my next way point will be.
Another advantage to hiking a familiar trail is you know whether you will encounter a comfortable number of fellow hikers. Ideal for me is not crowded but not completely isolated. It's nice to know someone will likely be along to help you if you injure a leg.
I hope my tips are helpful and wish my hiking sisters the happiest of solo journeys.
Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Solo Hiking.
Enjoy Happy Trails, the free monthly newsletter from Hiking For Her loaded with hiking tips, trail updates, inspiring hiker stories and more
TODAY'S BEST OUTDOOR GEAR DEALS
SteepandCheap has got some amazing deals on right now, with new ones posted every day! All the great brands, including OR, Mountain Hardwear, Patagonia, HellyHansen, and so many more!
Last minute gifts from REI are always a good option for the holidays. Check out their gift sale.
See ALL the great deals on the Hiking For Her Best Current Deals page!
Diane was a beginner hiker in 1971, and never stopped hiking.
She started Hiking For Her in 2008 as a resource to encourage every woman to take a hike.
Please enjoy these expert hiking tips as you explore what hiking offers in any weather, season or location.
POPULAR POSTS
Here it is, all in one place!
Best Tips For Women Dayhikers: Everything You Need To Know To Hit The Trail
Get your paperback or Kindle copy to hike in confidence & comfort
Diane Spicer founded the Hiking For Her community in 2008 to encourage female hikers, those who wanted to begin hiking as well as those who were in love with this fantastic sport already.
On this website she shares expert hiking tips and recommendations, gear reviews and photos from her outdoor adventures to welcome everyone to learn the necessary skills for comfort and safety on a hike.
This reader supported website does not use sponsored or promoted content. There are no ads or paid link placements. Everything you read is based on decades of personal hiking experience in many different locations.
All rights reserved. No duplication of content without permission.
Photo credits: All photos on this website were taken by David Midkiff or Diane Spicer except where noted.
Disclosures
Privacy Policy
Copyright
Media
Visit HFH's Pinterest boards
Hiking For Her is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Here's an easy way to stay caught up on the hiking world: my free monthly newsletter. Your information is never shared or sold, and is used only to send this newsletter once per month. Unsubscribe at any time with one click.