There’s something about solitude. Time alone to be with your thoughts and mull over your dreams offers space for recharging, personal growth, inspiration, inner peace and clarity. But true solitude, free of phone notifications, podcast chatter and all of life’s little distractions is quite hard to find—unless, of course, you escape to nature.
Below are stories from REI Co-op Members and staff about solo hiking. From wildlife run-ins and spur of the moment journeys to safety tips and solo hikes that opened the door for new friendships, discover moments of courage, strength, and resilience from our community.
Remember: Never hike alone on a whim. If you’re not prepared, things can quickly go awry. And for women, LGBTQ+, BIPOC and disabled individuals, adventuring alone can come with an added layer of vulnerability. That’s why it’s important to follow these tips for a safe and empowering experience:
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
- Choose well-known trails and stay in your comfort zone.
- Check the weather before you head out.
- Always pack the Ten Essentials.
- Don’t venture off trail.
- Be aware of wildlife and know what to do if you encounter any (like carrying mace or bear spray).
- Bring a backup way to communicate, like a satellite messenger, in case of spotty connection.
- Wear proper gear and clothing for the weather and terrain—and pack extra layers.
- Have a plan for if you get lost or injured—and know how and when to safely bail.
First Female Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker
In 1952, Mildred Norman became the first female thru-hiker on record to complete the Appalachian Trail in a single season, logging 2,020.76 miles. She would go on to hike 25,000 miles across North America as a “Peace Pilgrim.”
An Unexpected Encounter
Hiking alone is one of my greatest joys. It is a time when I feel most at peace, and also when I feel most vulnerable. The uncertainty of what lies ahead or around the corner can be both exciting and terrifying. On a summer day, I was solo hiking through Shenandoah National Park, taking in the sights of the rolling mountains, the smells of the forest and the sounds of the bees enjoying the blooming flowers. As I rounded a corner, the noise of the buzzing bees intensified. When I looked up, it felt like a scene out of a movie. On the trail 10 feet in front of me was a black bear foraging within the bushes and surrounded by the swarming bees. The serenity of seeing this bear in its habitat gave me an immense feeling of peace. Immediately following this brief moment of tranquility, I quickly realized the reality of the situation. I was alone, miles into a trail, and had just startled a bear. My sense of vulnerability kicked in, and I slowly backed away. The bear took its gaze off me and went back to foraging. My hike was cut short, but I left with a renewed sense of respect for the forest and those who reside within it. I was reminded that peace and vulnerability can coexist, creating beautiful and unexpected experiences. — Lindsay Waldron, REI Co-op Member since 2016
Did you know?
Despite their name, black bears can be black, cinnamon, blonde, blue/gray and even white.
Remember, no matter how friendly they may appear, bears are wild animals and can be dangerous if you get too close or they feel provoked. If you encounter a bear on a hike, keep your distance, back away slowly and reroute, giving the bear lots of space, and have your bear spray handy.
Hiker’s Best Friend
A couple years ago, I flew home for my grandma’s funeral in Portland, Oregon. I had a spare afternoon, so I borrowed a friend’s car and drove up to Mount Hood for a spontaneous run on one of my favorite trails. I was feeling strong—and ambitious—so I went deep. After a while on the 18-mile loop, I saw no other people. What I did witness was recent mountain lion activity, including a sign declaring there was a recent cougar attack on a human in the area. Fully in my head, but too deep on the loop to turn back, I did what anyone would do: I picked up the pace, sang Beatles songs as loudly as I could to not surprise any big cats, and carried a very large pine branch. Just in case, I guess.
So, my rule for hiking solo, which is one of my favorite activities? Bring a dog. Dogs are loud. Dogs give you companionship. Dogs love to hike. And dogs sniff out trouble. They might not always save you in an actual emergency, but at least you’ll be in it together. — John Clary Davies, REI Co-op Member since 2002
Letter to a Friend
The poet Gary Snyder wrote to a friend, “I am physically sick for wanting to be in the mountains so bad. I am forced to admit that no one thing in life gives me such unalloyed pleasure as simply being in the mountains.”
Prepare for the Journey
When I tell folks that I love a good solo adventure, the responses are usually either admiration for my bravery or comments about it being irresponsible—especially for a woman. Thankfully, I have the support of my family and closest friends along with a hearty dose of preparation. I tell women who are considering solo outdoor adventures the best things you can do are to be prepared. Whether that’s a course in Wilderness Remote First Aid, taking a map and compass class, or simply trying it close to home so you can bail out, having those skills adds confidence. Get educated, make a plan and then do it. You’ll learn remarkable things about yourself. — Ruth Wikoff-Jones, senior operations specialist at the REI store in Roseville, Minnesota
A Breath of Fresh Air
Give yourself a quick reprieve with this 5-minute outdoor meditation.
Outdoor Therapy
I’m somebody that processes things through movement. So being on the trail alone running, where there’s fresh air and no one around, allows me to think through issues going on, plans I have for the future or all things going on in the world beyond my little bubble. I love the adventure aspect of it, seeing beautiful places, covering lots of mileage but it’s also a form of therapy for me.
If you’re looking to get into spending time solo in the mountains, it’s all about knowing the area and preparing for what you could face out in the wilderness. Do your research, see what others are saying regarding cell service and trail conditions. Set yourself up for success so you can go into a solo adventure with confidence. There’s so much benefit to making that time and space for yourself.
— Debrah Arriola-Jacobson, REI Co-Op member since 2011
“I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o’er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
–William Wordsworth