The Ultimate Guide to Solo Hiking

Hiking is by far one of the best ways to experience the great outdoors. Not only are there tons of health benefits but you also (typically) end up with a pretty epic view at the end of your hike! No matter where you’re at in the world, you’re likely to have plenty of great hiking trails nearby. Hiking can be fun with friends, family, or others, but there are also tons of reasons why it’s great to hike alone. This is the ultimate guide to solo hiking: the benefits, the do’s and don’ts, how to prepare for a solo hike, and more!

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The Benefits of Solo Hiking

So, why should you hike solo? There are actually tons of reasons! Not only is hiking great for your physical and mental health but solo hiking has quite a few perks of its own. These are just a few of the benefits of hiking alone.

1. Empowerment

Nothing is better than accomplishing something (like a hike!) all by yourself. There will be no one there to help you cross the stream, lend a hand on the steep rocks, or give you a quick pep talk when you’re running out of steam. It will be all you. And you will feel so confident and proud of yourself once you accomplish it all on your own.

2. You Set the Pace

You don’t have to worry about going too fast or too slow for whoever else you’re hiking with. Trust me, I’ve been there. Hiking with people who are way faster than you will only make you feel bad for slowing them down. Hiking too fast for whoever you’re with, will make you feel bad for (unintentionally, of course) getting too far ahead and leaving them behind. Solo hiking means that you get to go as fast or as slow as you want. And you don’t have to feel bad about it!

3. Improve Your Outdoor Skills

Hiking with others allows you to rely on them for all of the important things. Keeping you safe, navigating the way, etc. When hiking solo, you will be relying entirely on yourself. You may be surprised what you’re capable of!

4. Time for Self Reflection

Whether you put in some headphones and listen to your favorite playlist or podcast, or you just revel in the peace and quiet, hiking solo will give you plenty of time to clear your head. If you’re looking for a chance to contemplate or just zone out for a while, solo hiking will give you a chance to do just that.

5. Conquer Your Fears

One of the main reasons that people choose not to hike solo is out of fear. Whether it be a fear for safety, a fear of failing, or just a general fear of being alone. All you have to do is conquer that first solo hike and I promise your confidence will soar.

6. Hike Whenever / Wherever You Want

Hiking by yourself means that you can go whenever and wherever you want. You don’t have to rely on others to join in or worry about lining up your schedules. You choose the trail, you choose the date, and you set the budget!

The Do’s and Don’ts of Solo Hiking

Do: Tell Someone Where You’re Going

This is one of the most important tips I can give as a solo hiker, for safety reasons. Always share your plans with someone before you head out. This way, if something bad were to happen (hey, you never know!), someone will at least be aware of your location and able to get help for you if needed. Just give a description and the location of the hike you’ll be doing and let them know what time you plan on getting back. Just don’t forget to check back in when your hike is finished! 😉

Don’t: Forget to Use Proper Hiking Etiquette

• Don’t litter or leave trash on the hiking trails. It’s always so disheartening when I go on a hike and see tons of trash along the way. I often bring a bag with me so that I can pick up trash that I find along the way and properly discard it whenever I get back.
• A hiker going uphill has the right of way. If you’re going downhill, be courteous and move to the side (as long as you’re able) to allow the uphill hiker to pass.
• Only burn fires when and where they are permitted. Keep your fire small and only burn where you are supposed to. Make sure fires are completely out before you leave.
• If you are hiking with a dog, use a leash. You may have the most respectable pup in the world but there are still some people who have a fear of dogs (especially larger ones). Always use a leash and keep your pet under control during your hike.
• Respect the wildlife. Never attempt to approach or feed any type of wild animal. You are in their home, be respectful of their space. Leave all natural objects as you find them (plants, rocks, etc).
• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you will be hiking. Different places have different rules and you should always know what they are before you head out.

Do: Always Listen to Your Instincts

One of the most common fears of solo hiking (particularly for women) is safety. We’ve all heard the Ted Bundy stories so we know why it can be concerning to do something like hiking a mountain all by yourself. If something doesn’t feel right to you, it’s probably not. Don’t forget to bring your pepper spray, ladies. You never know when it’ll come in handy! With that being said, don’t be afraid to interact with other hikers along the way or when you make it to the top. I’ve met some of the friendliest people at the top of a mountain after a long hike. There are still good people in the world, you just have to trust your gut.

“Becoming fearless isn’t the point. That’s impossible. It’s learning how to control your fear, and how to be free from it.”

– Veronica Roth

Don’t: Do Anything Risky Just for Photos

Climbing out to the very edge of a dangerous cliff just for an Instagram photo is just not worth it. Don’t try anything beyond your limits (this applies to all hikers, but especially if you’re going solo). The last thing you want to do is somehow end up severely injured out in the woods all by yourself. Never do anything illegal just for a photo either (trespassing, etc).

Do: Know Your Limits

Only you know what you are capable of. Challenging yourself is fine but always be realistic about your skills and endurance level. Don’t attempt a crazy difficult hike until you are sure that it’s something you’ll actually be able to do. Never push yourself beyond your comfort level as mistakes are easily made once you’re fatigued and frustrated. If it’s your first solo hike, start out with a popular well-marked trail. You won’t have to worry about getting lost or over-exerting yourself.

Don’t: Forget to Take Breaks

Even if you’re doing fine and don’t feel like stopping, you still need to take drink and snack breaks so you can stay hydrated and energized. If nothing else, it at least gives you a chance to stop and take in the views around you for a while.

Do: Download the AllTrails App

AllTrails is great because you can download a trail map before you head out which allows you to use the map whether you have phone service on your hike or not. And, for the international hikers out there, it works all around the world! You do have to be an AllTrails Pro member to access the offline map feature, but it costs less than $3/month. Being a Pro member also gives you access to details about the weather, air quality, pollution levels, and more. It’s definitely worth it if you plan on doing a lot of hiking.

How to Prepare for a Solo Hike

Plan Your Hike Ahead of Time

Most outdoor activities have at least some level of risk to them. Hiking is no exception! It’s important to know where you’ll be going and how you’ll be getting there. Always, always have a game plan before heading out for a hike. There will always be factors that are beyond your control. However, there are several things that you can do to lower the overall risk factor and ensure you are properly prepared. These are some of the best things that you can do to prepare for a hike no matter how short or long.

Step 1: Research the Hike

Always do a search for the hike you plan on doing and see what kind of information you can find. Do you need a permit for the hike? Will the trails be open on the day you plan on hiking? You may learn some surprising things that can better prepare you for your hike. You can do a quick google search and see what you find or you can join one of the many hiking groups on Facebook and ask any questions you may have there.

Like ‘The Ultimate Guide to Solo Hiking?’ Don’t forget to check out this post as well: Hiking the Stairway to Heaven on Oahu, Hawaii.

Step 2: Train for the Hike (if needed)

Once you do a little research on your hike, you’ll know how far you’ll be hiking and what the elevation gain should be. If either of these seem too far or too high for you, I would suggest training for a while before you actually head out on the hike. You can do this by working your way up to it with other shorter, easier hikes first or by simply hitting the gym. Hiking is a very physically demanding activity. It’s just as important to have your body in good shape and be physically prepared as it is to be mentally prepared for any hike.

Step 3: Understand How to Properly Navigate

Basic navigation skills will definitely help along the way but it’s also useful to know how to properly use a compass and read a map. The last thing anyone wants when hiking solo is to end up lost. If you do find yourself lost, do not continue. Stop and check your map, trail guide, etc. and then backtrack until something looks familiar. The AllTrails app can come in really handy in situations like this as well.

Step 4: Make a Detailed Plan

This includes looking at trail maps and deciding on a route, checking and preparing for the weather, knowing the expected mileage and elevation gain, and using a detailed packing list to make sure you have everything you need for the hike. Make sure to share your itinerary/plans with someone you trust.

Bonus Tip: Know the sunrise/sunset times for the area you will be hiking if you hope to make it to a certain point (or back home) before dark.

Make Sure You Have the Proper Hiking Gear

Even for a short, local day hike, you’ll want to bring at least the basics with you. You never want to overpack, but you always want to make sure you have everything you’ll need. These are some products that are definitely worth investing in for anyone who loves to hike.

Hiking Shoes

For some hikes (like the ones with easy to follow trails) I’m good with just a pair of regular Nikes but for other more “off the beaten path” type hikes I strongly prefer a solid pair of legit hiking boots. For me, it just depends on the hike. However, one thing I always look for in a good pair of hiking boots is something lightweight and waterproof. Trust me when I say it can make all the difference! Two of my favorite brands would be Columbia and Merrell.

Bonus Tip: Never go on a hike in a brand new pair of shoes. You always want your feet to be used to the shoes before you wear them out on a hike. If not, you almost certainly will end up with blisters and very sore feet. Always break them in first. Don’t forget a great pair of socks as well!

Proper Hiking Clothes

I saw someone at the top of a mountain in skinny jeans the other day and I was honestly shocked. Not only should you wear the proper clothes for comfort reasons but there’s a safety factor as well. What you wear on your hike will largely depend on the weather and environment. However, I would always suggest wearing some type of full-length pants (to protect your legs from scratches, bugs, etc.) and bringing light, breathable layers that can easily be added or removed. A moisture wicking material will always be better than cotton! A lightweight rain jacket can often come in handy as well.

Like ‘The Ultimate Guide to Solo Hiking?’ Don’t forget to check out this post as well: Hiking Mua Caves in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.

Backpack

You definitely can hike without a backpack especially if it’s just a short hike. However, if it’s a longer hike you’ll definitely want a good backpack to carry everything you need. And, it can come in very handy on short hikes as well so you can bring your water, snacks, camera, etc. Just make sure you don’t overpack making your backpack too heavy. The less weight, the better.

Thermal Water Bottle

Nothing is worse than getting to the end of your hiking trail and having nothing but a bottle of lukewarm water. A thermal bottle will make sure you have an ice cold drink at the end of your hike. My favorite is the S’well bottle. It’s cute, it comes in tons of different shapes, sizes and colors, and it keeps your drinks cold for a full 24 hours. Bonus? It can also keep drinks hot for any winter hikes you may do.

Phone and/or Emergency Device

It’s important that you’re able to call for help at any time during a hike if needed. If you’re on a hike where you will have cell phone service, that’s great. But for the hikes that you won’t? It’s worth investing in an emergency device with an SOS feature and tracker like the Garmin InReach Mini, or the Spot 3. They’re not the cheapest investment but they’re definitely a smart one. Hopefully you will never be in a situation where you need something like this but it will give you peace of mind knowing that you have it if you ever do.

Battery Pack

A battery pack for your phone is not only useful for having your phone readily available in emergency situations like mentioned above, but also if you plan on using your phone to listen to music or podcasts on your hike. It’ll definitely drain your phone battery by the end of the day!

First Aid Products

At the very least you should always bring some bandaids and blister pads. Other items such as bug spray and sunscreen can also be very useful and you can get them in travel sizes so they don’t take up much room in your backpack.

Food & Snacks

The best options for hiking snacks will always be things like granola bars, jerky, dried fruits, and trail mix. Not only are they great for a quick energy boost but they’re light and don’t take up a lot of space in your backpack as well. Avoid overly sweet or salty foods as they can have the opposite effect and drain your energy quick. Also avoid bringing canned foods as they add a lot of unnecessary weight to your backpack.

Other items to bring:

• Flashlight / Head Lamp
• Map / Compass
• Gloves
• Zippered Bag for Trash
• Sunglasses
• Hand Sanitizer
• Fire Starter

If you have any daily medications or medical supplies of any kind that you will need (inhaler, etc.), make sure to bring those as well. I would highly recommend creating an actual written list of everything you know you will need for your hike. This way you can cross each item off as you pack, ensuring that nothing is forgotten or left behind by accident.

Set Goals And Limits

A goal could be to just make it to a certain mile marker or to beat a personal time record. Maybe you want to make it to a certain viewpoint for sunset. Setting goals can give you something to look forward to during your hike.

A limit that you could set for yourself could be not to hike more than x amount of miles at a time. You could promise yourself ahead of time that if you start feeling a certain way (for example: exhausted, dehydrated) you will take a break or you will start heading back. Only you know your limits.

Keep in mind that no matter what goals and limits you set for yourself, it’s okay if you don’t meet those goals or even if you surpass them. It’s okay if you pass the limits as long as you know it’ll be okay. As I’ve said before, only you know what you’re capable of.

How to Get Photos on a Solo Hike

Bring a Tripod

Obviously a tripod will be the easiest way to get photos of yourself on a solo hike. Sure, you could prop your camera up on a ledge somewhere and use the self-timer, but it’s so much harder to frame your shot this way! I would suggest using a tripod and remote instead. It doesn’t even have to be a full-sized tripod. You can bring a small, portable tripod like the Joby Gorillapod which will easily fit into your backpack!

Shoot Photos in Burst Mode

Most cameras will have the option to shoot in burst mode which takes multiple photos with one click. Sometimes you’ll only like 1 out of every 10 photos so shooting in burst mode will really increase the odds! If you plan on doing any action shots (jumping, etc.) this is especially useful.

Ask Other Hikers to Take Your Photo

Typically the people that you will cross paths with on the hiking trails are pretty friendly. I almost always say hello or at least give a friendly nod to anyone that I pass while hiking. If you do this and you get a good vibe from the person, simply ask if they would mind taking a quick photo for you. Photos taken by strangers will always be pretty hit or miss but it’s still possible to get a really good photo. Here are some ways to increase your chances of getting a picture that you like.

• Ask them to take multiple photos. I usually say “just take a bunch!” as it will increase the odds of there being one that you like.
• Be specific when you ask. If there’s something in particular that you want (or don’t want) in the background, you can’t expect them to know that. Let them know what you’re expecting before they take the picture.
• Have them take the photo from farther away. You can always crop the photo yourself later but if they cut off your feet in the framing, there’s no fixing that. It’s better to have them take the picture from a distance than just a few feet away.
• If you see someone with a nice camera, ask them. Odds are, if someone has a nicer camera, they know a thing or two about photography. You’re more likely to get a good shot this way!
• Offer to take photos for them as well. People sometimes will be more willing to help you out if they’re getting something in return as well. Take a great photo for them and they’re likely to return the favor!

Solo Hiking: Final Thoughts

Hiking alone is not for everyone. If you’ve never hiked solo before but you’re wanting to give it a try, I would highly suggest joining a few of the hiking groups on Facebook. Connect with other hikers who may have similar concerns as you or who may be able to give you some helpful tips or advice. There’s a huge hiking community out there that will welcome you with open arms. If you do decide to give solo hiking a try, always be smart, be responsible, and enjoy your hikes!

Would you ever try solo hiking? Share in a comment below!

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