Prior to finding HF and hammocking, I was solo 95% of the time. I enjoyed the solitude, the freedom to choose whatever route I wanted to take, and generally did many, many more miles. I did 27 miles over 2 days in Yosemite while still a tenter. I would find the most secluded spot I could, far off the trail, and just sit, watch, and listen.

Now that I've been to numerous group hangs, I find that I really don't care to push for long hikes on established trails with the group. I prefer hanging out around the fire or exploring a little, but the hiking takes a backseat to the group itself. As active as the Ohio group is, we seem to be doing a group hang every two weeks or so.

At least once this summer, I will be going solo, probably to Dolly Sods. I will only inform my wife where I am going, when I'll be back, and the general area I will plan to camp. If all goes as planned, nobody will see me for two days, including Verizon.