Solo Hiking: Enjoying the Outdoors Alone … Safely

There is something refreshing and freeing about going on a solo hike. It’s nice to experience the outdoors alone. Enjoy the peace and serenity of nature, without listening to your hiking partner complain about how much their feet hurt.

While taking solo hikes gives you the freedom of coming and going whenever you want, you’ve got to make sure you are prepared with the right gear or it can be really dangerous. You’ve really got to find a balance between the thrill of adventure and being responsible – it could save your life.

Before you set off on a hike alone, make sure you learn the terrain, have a way to communicate with others, are prepared for weather changes and have the supplies you need to keep you safe.

Here are 5 tips for taking care of yourself on the trail alone.

Communication

There’s nothing wrong with hiking solo, but make sure you let someone know you are going. Let a friend or family member know you are hiking. Make sure you let them know exactly where you are going and a time range you expect to be gone. That way if something happens to you, they’ll know where to start looking.

You should also try to check in with the ranger. Chat with the ranger a little bit about the area and let them know you are hiking a lone. That way someone knows where you are.

Know the Terrain

Before you head out on your hike, make sure you learn about the area. Do rattlesnakes like the sunny areas of the trail? How about coyotes or raccoons? Take a little time to learn about the area you will be hiking in. Once you hit the trail, make sure you take time to read the signs on the trail.

Know Your Limits

Be honest with yourself about how much you can do physically. Keep an eye on the time, you want to keep track of how long it’s taken you, so you know when you need to turn back.

Stay on the Trail

You should always stay on the trail, but it’s even more important when you are by yourself. Staying on the trails will help you to protect the environment, animal habitats and yourself from the animals; it also helps to reduce your chances of getting lost. You really don’t want to end up getting lost. Stay on the trails … it’ll also reduce your chances of getting ticks, which carry Lyme disease.

Be Prepared

Hiking is hard work. It’s exercise. Make sure you pack enough water to keep yourself hydrated. Wear layers. It may be cool when you start, but it may end up being really hot by the time you finish (or vice versa). Make sure you use sunscreen and dress for the terrain. Make sure you wear good shoes and take a first aid kit … just in case.

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