Who goes it alone and who doesn't?

[wisenber]

I'm 75% alone/ 25% with others. When I go alone I can go when I want, where I want, how far I do or do not want, eat what I want, go as fast or slow as I want and don't need to bother consulting or reconciling schedules. Hiking with others is okay from time to time. I hike mostly to get away from people and cell phone signals.
I started out hiking with others. Then it became a chore to pick a time and a place that worked for everyone. Once I started going solo, I discovered how great it can be to just grab a pack and head out on a Wednesday afternoon if my schedule had an opening.

[WoodmanFla]

I have to agree with a lot of the folks who posted here. Once I confronted and overcame my fears of being alone in the woods I began to thoroughly enjoy time alone in the wilderness. By far the best times I ever had were when I was alone and put myself into challenging situations. Many people may call that irresponsible but I call it being free. One of the best outings I ever had was a spur of the moment trip in what was to be known as the storm of the century.
I do enjoy the company (especially at night around the campfire) of like minded positive people. However, a single trip with even one negative whiny individual will make me crave my alone time in the woods even more.

[AstrayKat]

I probably should have said this in my last post, but when I go with friends we never camp. My friends enjoy a good hike, but they don't like spending the night outdoors (they're a bunch of wusses imo) so the only time I get to camp is on my own (my parents don't like it, but I do at least tell friends where I'm going, how long I'm gonna be gone, and my expected itinerary, so I have people who will alert the right authorities if I don't re-emerge when I'm supposed to). I don't always camp when I hike, mostly because until recently I only new the joys(sarcasm) of tent camping. But then I don't get out very often anyway... or as often as I would like might be a better way of putting it.

--Kat

[L.D. Cakes]

I probably should have said this in my last post, but when I go with friends we never camp. My friends enjoy a good hike, but they don't like spending the night outdoors (they're a bunch of wusses imo) so the only time I get to camp is on my own (my parents don't like it, but I do at least tell friends where I'm going, how long I'm gonna be gone, and my expected itinerary, so I have people who will alert the right authorities if I don't re-emerge when I'm supposed to). I don't always camp when I hike, mostly because until recently I only new the joys(sarcasm) of tent camping. But then I don't get out very often anyway... or as often as I would like might be a better way of putting it.

--Kat

I know what you mean Astraykat, I have lots of friends that like to day hike but won't commit to staying overnight, only a few of us have that in us really. I only have one or two I could really count on and I have to "plan" it with them. So I just take off when I want to. And you're smart to let people know where you're going. I have one trusted buddy I call when I go it alone and if I went missing he knows these mountains here well enough to track me right to my location.

[WonderMonkey]

I do a mix. My outdoors buddy is a quiet guy. That allows for plenty of enjoying whatever it is that we are doing.

[JohnSawyer]

I agree to the glacial speed. I'm not in great shape (unless you consider round a great shape), but I like to get out and enjoy nature. With job, 2 kids, etc. it seems only once or twice a year, though we go out in the RV far more often. That said it's been a year. Both kids have had casted feet for what seems like an eternity.

I'm looking for opportunities to go do an overnighter or two solo, but mostly hike with my buddy Joe, who always points out that anytime I plan a trip, we seem to have issues with water... (either none can be found, or I forgot the filter... hmm...). Love backpacking with the kids, but they're not into the trekking aspect. Maybe I need to find a 1/2 mile hike to basecamp...

I hope to meet up for an overnighter or weekend with some folks from here...

Since there is safety in numbers I always hike in a group. However at the glacial speed I hike at the group lasts about ten minutes and I am hiking alone for most of the day. We meet at key trail crossings and at camp for the night, but I am humming to myself and enjoying nature most all of the day. The evening meal and maybe campfire (depending on elevation and such) means sharing stories, telling tales and enjoying one anothers company.
Mike

[wildcrafter]

i have the same problem with kids and trekking part one loves it one would rather be on the couch watching tv. So it short hikes with the kids and lots of breaks for smores and fun.

[sr1355]

Not done a solo multiday hike since 1999 but getting ready to spend four or five days on the High Country Pathway... I'm nervous, worried, scared, but so so excited to be going...I hope it snows... My GF is the one who's really nervous, worried, scared....

[Bunk]

I would like to take my gf out with me BUT now I'm a hammock camper and only have gear for myself. So I would be in my hammock and the gf in a tent...not so sure that would fly.

And after working extra shifts to afford this new investment I'd be hard pressed to pay for it all over again...at least that's what I tell myself...in the end I still prefer going it solo, nothing like being out in the beautiful wilderness with man's best friend! It is a feeling I just can't put to words...

[ikemouser]

I go alone every time, until my son is old enough. Nothing wrong with going alone. Im about to do 5.5 days 60-70 miles on the AT from erwin TN to Kincora hostel alone. Should be a blast.