Have you ever looked at a mountain trail and longed to tackle it – but the idea of going alone held you back? I used to be right there. Worries about navigation, the “what if” scenarios, and a nagging voice questioning if I was strong enough always outweighed the desire. But one day, I decided enough was enough. That first solo hike changed everything, and it can for you too.
My motivation for solo hiking
I realised all that was holding me back from the trails I craved was waiting for someone else’s schedule. Hiking, for me, is about the freedom of the mountains and the quiet space it gives my mind – both things I value deeply when I’m alone. Of course, the idea of heading completely solo into unfamiliar trails was daunting.
Getting safely from point A to point B, especially in the mountains where things can change fast, felt like a skill I hadn’t yet mastered. But that desire for freedom outweighed the fear. What I discovered on that first solo hike – and countless others since – is that with the right preparation, a solo adventure can not only be safe but incredibly empowering.
Choosing Your Hike
Even though I’m an experienced hiker, my first solo hike wasn’t about tackling a new challenge. It was about confidence-building. I chose the Devil’s Kitchen path to Y Garn for a few reasons:
- Familiar Footing: I’d hiked this trail before, minimising any navigation stress.
- Well-Maintained Path: This reduced the chances of getting lost, even if the weather changed unexpectedly.
- Moderate Challenge: It has some uphill but nothing too strenuous for my first solo outing.
Research for Safety and Confidence
Planning this first hike wasn’t just about logistics; it was about setting myself up for success and the right mindset for going solo. Here’s what I focused on:
Navigation App: While confident on this path, I wanted a backup. I researched the best hiking apps and chose Outdoor Active for its ease of use. I downloaded my route ahead of time and watched YouTube tutorials on the essential features.
Weather: I knew good visibility was essential for my first solo navigation. I waited for a clear day and checked the mountain-specific forecast (Met Office is my go-to for accuracy).
Before ever setting foot on that first solo trail, I knew safety depended on thorough planning. Here’s two things I recommend:
Communication Plan: I sent my partner my exact route, planned start and finish times. Throughout the hike, I sent photos of my surroundings every 30 minutes (where I had signal) to provide regular updates.
Gear for Emergencies: My pack included a power bank for my phone, high-calorie snacks for unexpected delays, and my water filter for reliable hydration. I chose bright clothing for visibility. Read more about what to pack for safety in the mountains.
On the Trail: Challenges & Revelations
The drive was a blur of nerves. Lists done, gear packed, but of course, I managed the classic ‘forgot to fill up the car’ blunder. Pulling into the services, my anxiety went into overdrive.
But the moment I parked, boots hit the gravel, and I inhaled that mountain air… something shifted. The worries faded, replaced by a rush of excitement. Perfect weather, not a soul in sight – it was like I had the whole trail to myself, a reward for actually getting out the door!
My legs felt lighter than ever as I reached the halfway marker. Usually, this is where I start lagging behind, gasping for breath but today, I set the pace. Pausing to admire the view, catching my breath when I needed, not because I had to keep up. That’s when the boost hit – not just physical energy, but the realisation: I do have the strength for this, on my terms. The summit was suddenly more than just a goal; it became proof of what I can achieve solo.
Moments of Solitude on the trail
The steps up to the second lake were brutal. Legs burning, mind buzzing with ‘wrong track!’ panic, I opened the map. Backtracking was annoying, but I refused to let it derail me. Each step upward was a muttered ‘I can do this,’ a stubborn mantra against doubt.
Reaching that second lake wasn’t just relief, it was a wave of elation. Wind on my face, the panorama unfolding… instead of rushing on, I sank down by the water. Bagels tasted like a feast, and the only sounds were the lap of water and birdsong.
The summit beckoned, but that moment was mine. It wasn’t about speed, but proving to myself that solo means truly setting my own pace – even if that pace is sometimes a blissful pause.
After my lakeside break, the final push was challenging. The sun blazed down, turning the uphill into a sweat-drenched test of willpower. Each step upward was a silent chant of ‘Keep going!’
Reaching the summit… it wasn’t just relief, but a surge of pure triumph. That ‘I did it, all on my own!’ rush is what solo hiking is about. Snowdonia sprawled out below, breath-taking, but the greatest reward was knowing the strength I discovered along the way.
Looking back, what would I do differently?
Looking back, I wish I’d taken more time to relax the night before. Pre-adventure jitters are normal, but a good sleep sets you up for success. Next time, it’s early to bed with a calming cup of tea!
Y Garn was the spark, but each solo hike since has built my confidence – not just in my skills, but in myself. If you’re wondering if you can do it, trust me, you can. You might just surprise yourself.
The mountains are my ultimate stress-buster. It’s space to clear my head, reconnect with something bigger. The days after a hike, I feel not just happier, but more resilient, ready to take on anything.
Mental preparation is key
If you’re the type who likes to plan ahead and analyse every possibility, the mental side of solo hiking can be the toughest challenge. It was for me! The checklists and route planning helped, but I also had to retrain my own mind.
Focus on the Present: While hiking, I kept reminding myself to stay present, focusing on the beauty of each step, the sounds around me. This minimised the ‘what if’ spiral.
Positive Self-Talk: When a doubt crept in, I countered it with ‘I’ve prepared for this,’ or ‘I’m stronger than I think.’ It sounds cheesy, but it works!
The Imperfect is OK: Even with all this, there were still moments of worry. But that’s okay. Each solo hike gets a little easier and the rewards of being out there, pushing myself mentally and physically, far outweigh the anxieties.
Embracing the Challenge: I reframed the solitude as an opportunity – a chance to truly connect with myself and my surroundings in a way that’s just not possible with company.
Ready to build your own solo hiking toolkit?
Your Solo Hiking Success Toolkit
- Prepare to Thrive: The night before, it’s all about getting organised. Pack your bag, double-check gear, and run through a ‘what if’ list for changing weather. Preparation is key to a confident mindset.
- Start Familiar: Your first solo adventure isn’t about conquering the unknown. Choose a well-known trail to minimise navigation stress.
- Navigation Know-How: Invest time in learning a map and compass, or master a reliable hiking app. Being self-sufficient boosts confidence.
- Fuel for the Journey: Water and high-energy snacks are non-negotiable. Think of them as fueling your sense of adventure, not just your body.
- Share Your Plan: Tell someone your exact route and estimated return time. It’s not just safety, it’s peace of mind for you and those who care for you.
- Be Visible: Bright clothing makes you easier to spot in an emergency, and that photo you send? It’s a smart backup for your route description.
- Emergency Essentials: A small kit with safety basics (whistle, foil blanket, battery pack) might be the thing you never need – but a huge source of reassurance if you do.
