Solo hiking

 

Can you hike alone?

The answer is yes you can, BUT, I would advise against that, especially as a beginner hiker. Truth is being in nature on your own allows you to get in touch with yourself, plus you have the freedom to set your pace. But it is not for everyone. And attempting to go solo on a trail that you're not familiar with can be disastrous for a novice hiker. I’ve hiked alone a couple of times, but I don't think those qualify as solo hikes since I always opted for a busy and fairly safe trail. 

Fact is there are long and short day trails and the risk increases with the distance and terrain. And this is regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker. I’ve seen one of the strongest and fittest hikers I know being affected by altitude in a way I could never have imagined. And even the strongest hiker may get an injury that may immobilise them. One of the first things every hiker must come to terms with is, in the bush, nature is king. And nature does not only refer to weather that can change in a whim; there are wild animals and snakes which may pose a danger to hikers. And then there are human beings who may also pose danger in their own way. There's been reported cases of attacks on hikers in South Africa, and this is where safety in numbers comes into play. 

While I'm encouraging teaming up for safety, I have to mention that a group of inexperienced hikers may also not be a good idea. It is important not only to have numbers, but also some experience which may come handy when important decisions have to be made, especially regarding whether to continue or call it a day. 

Risks to consider before hiking solo

1.      Medical emergencies

Imagine feeling dizzy or nauseas while hiking alone. What is going to happen? Who is going to support you? What if you get a sprain, blisters or a serious injury? Having some people with you means someone may stay with you while others or another person goes to get help. This should not be taken lightly. The same way that you may feel sick at work or at home, seemingly out of nowhere, you can feel sick while hiking. And maybe this is where I mention that it is always advisable to carry a first aid kit with you during a hike. And if you’re on some medication, make sure you have that too. 

2.      Getting lost

I know I’m writing for beginners who may be starting out on trails that are easy to navigate, but anything is possible. Sometimes life happens. Most trails are well marked but I’ve had moments where I just got lost in my own world; this happens a lot in hiking. There are moments where you completely get into a meditative state, and it’s easy to miss a trail marking during these moments. Being with others means someone may be more attentive than you are and immediately lead you back to the trail. Getting lost on a shorter day trail may not be as bad as on a longer one. But you don’t need that trauma.

 

Ask for a map if available, and make sure you can read it!

3.      Being attacked

I’ve already mentioned the possibility of being attacked by wild animals, something not that common, but not improbable, in South Africa. Our country has many poisonous snakes, and you don’t want to be bitten by one of those and not have access to help. There may be little incidences of being stung by bees or some other insects, which may send you to a hospital’s emergency room, especially if you are allergic. 

And then there are human beings to consider. Most novice hikers are likely to explore trails closer to residential areas or towns and this is where most attacks take place due to easy accessibility. This does not mean remote trails are immune to attacks, but the incidents are far and in between. For the record, there is still a chance of being attacked even as a group, but chances of minimal harm in such circumstances are better.

4.      Forgetting supplies

We are humans and forgetting your nicely packed lunch, snacks, water or first aid kit on the kitchen table can happen to anyone. Being part of a team means your needs will be covered whereas if you are alone, you will have to make do without whatever you would have forgotten until the end of your hike. The worst can be hiking without water, which may lead to dehydration and generally slowing you down. Hikers are known to share even the smallest snacks. Only in hiking can five people share a banana or snack bar.

5.      When weather happens

Consider how you will fare should the weather change for the worst while you’re on your own. Think a heavy downpour, hail, thunderstorm, winds! Confronting these as a team will be better as you will support each other.

Safety when hiking solo

Should you decide to hike alone, here are some tips for you:

• Make sure you're fit enough for the trail.
• Research the trail beforehand.
• Consider a busy trail.
• Make sure there's a way of communicating with other people.
• Make sure your cellphone is fully charged - assuming there will be network coverage.
• Take a map or use your mobile applications.
• Carry a whistle or something that can draw attention.
• Carry a pepper spray!

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At the end

It is tempting to want to be outdoors on your own, connecting with nature without other human beings cramping your space. Think hiking at your own pace without worrying about delaying others or leaving others behind, and just enjoying the solitude!  But that may not always be worth the risk. When I started hiking, I had a serious fear of heights and water, so I always needed support. My fear of heights has eased somewhat and my relationship with water is improving, though still complicated. And although I sometimes go solo, I am more at ease when I share my drug of choice with others. Yes! Hiking is my drug of choice and I hope it becomes yours too. Go on and have your fix, safely putting one foot in front of the other, taking it one step at a time!

Td