Ahoy! As an avid outdoor enthusiast, These tips help me stay safe when hiking solo:
- Learn hiking and first aid skills before attempting to hike alone.
- Know your hiking abilities and limits - remain on the trail.
- Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably not.
- Let someone know you’ll be hiking: They should know the day, start & return time, trailhead name and location, planned route, vehicle description, and the local authority phone numbers.
- Know what local wildlife you may encounter and what to do.
- Check the weather. Wear appropriate gear.
- Visit a Ranger Station before you begin if possible.
- Bring your cell phone and an external battery pack.
- Learn to use a compass and read a map.
- Park your vehicle in an obvious place and leave your information inside.
- Pack the essentials, including:
- Drybag
- Physical map or GPS
- Protection (bear spray, knife, gun)
- Water
- Insulation/extra clothing
- Sun and bug protection
- Food
- Basic wilderness survival kit:
- Emergency blanket
- Fire kindling
- Fire starter
- Twine/Rope/Paracord
- Bandana
- Headlamp
- Utility tool
- Lip balm
- Compass
- Signal mirror
- Empty container to hold kit, such as a Nalgene bottle
- Water purification tablets & water filter
- Miniature duct tape
- Batteries
- Waterproof notepad and pen/pencil
- Whistle
- Basic medical kit
Have fun, be safe, and don’t forget to “Leave No Trace” when exploring the great outdoors!
References
Addis, K. (2020, December 25). The Girl's Guide to Hiking Solo in 2022. Nomadic Matt. Retrieved April 12, 2022, from https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/girls-guide-to-hiking-solo/
Bor, K. (2021, May 23). Hiking Alone: Solo Hiking Benefits and Safety Tips. Bearfoot Theory. Retrieved April 12, 2022, from https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/
Mullikin, K. (n.d.). 11 Tips for Safely Hiking Alone as a Woman. Explorer Chick. Retrieved April 12, 2022, from https://explorerchick.com/journal/women-safely-hiking-alone-tips/
