Sometimes hiking all by yourself is a good chance to recharge. Being alone is the best circumstance for meditation and quiet. This feeling is hard to duplicate in any other situation. Being all alone is the ultimate statement of self reliance. It will allow you to feel competent and happy. However, going out alone is not without danger. Many people have thought it not smart to go out alone. If you get hurt or in need of rescue, but are by yourself, it can be very hard to get it. While these beliefs are true, there is a safer way to go about hiking alone. If the proper precautions are taken, it can be a safe and rewarding adventure. Follow these simple steps to enjoy your time alone and stay safe in the back country.
Have a system. While this is crucial no matter how large your group is, if you are going solo, it is the most important precaution to take on a solo trip. Family need to know when you are coming home, when you'll be finished, and when you'll be out of reach. This is done so they know when to begin looking if you don't make it back in time. Also, creating a plan of exactly where you are hiking can help people locate you. If they know where you planned to go, then they have a great place to begin searching.
Know the area. While solo hiking is great, and lets you go any time you want, it is probably not the best time to start hiking in a new area. You will be most safe and happiest hiking on your own if you know where you are headed. Knowing an area is not always a bad thing. Sometimes it allows you to really explore, because you have a solid knowledge of how hard your hike will be and just how long it will take you. This is a great experience, plus you can learn all about an area and take your friends to see just how great it is.
Bring a little extra items. If you are hiking on your own, make sure you pack some extra food and supplies. If you get hurt, you may be stuck in one place for a while. Having extra supplies can make all the difference in the world.
Have a backup. If you are out on your own, you will need to secure a backup for some of your most needed items. Think about taking two compasses, or a compass and a GPS. That way, if one fails, you've got the other.
Remember you are alone, so there is nobody who has a compass you can borrow, or anyone to help you navigate.
Remembering this can help you stay safe.
Have Communication. Bring your cell phone because it might surprise you where it actually works. Even if it drops your call, talking for a second or two can mean a lot. Also, having it with you means that you can call when you leave civilization and as soon as you get back. This way people know when to being searching if they don't hear from you.
Be extra careful. If you are going to camp overnight, and are in an area where wildlife are a big concern, remember the smaller your group, the less safe you are from animals. So, be extra careful not to give them any reason to look for you. Hang your food, tidy your camp, don't sleep with your backpack. Follow these standard precautions and be extra vigilant about them. They are most important when you are alone.
If you do it safely, solo hiking can be really rewarding. It offers lots of benefits, such as not having to share a tent with a stinky hiking buddy, not having someone else whine about how heavy their pack is, or stealing your food. Solo hikes can be planned to fit your schedule even if others cannot make it. They can be a great way to recharge and get outside. Remember to be safe about it, but a solo hike might be an exciting activity to try.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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