My First Solo Hike, and What I Learned Along the Way
I began my love of hiking about three years ago. And for the first year, every time I hit the trails, my sister Kelly was right by my side. She’s my adventure buddy and trail guide.
My First Time Hiking Solo:
One weekend on a little summer getaway with my mom, I decided to step outside my comfort zone and go on my first solo hike while visiting the beautiful trails at The Lodge at Woodloch, in PA. OK, so this might not be the most adventurous tale of a first hike. There was no rock scrambling or mountains to climb. But I was alone out in nature, navigating trails on my own, and that was a first big step for me.
The trails were peaceful, well-marked, and surprisingly quiet. I was alone on most of them, which gave me a deep sense of calm. Along the way, I passed beautiful flowers, trees, some water and a couple of deer.
Then came the unexpected: I saw up ahead on the trail…a black bear. Yes, and it was the first time I had ever encountered one. I froze, remembering what my sister had taught me: don’t run. I stood still and watched as the bear crossed the trail and disappeared into the woods.
Once it was gone, I calmly turned around and walked in the opposite direction. Resourceful as I am (sometimes), I took out my cell phone, opened the camera and switched it to selfie mode so as I walked I could see behind me and make sure I wasn’t being followed by the bear. I love animals, but I didn’t exactly want a second encounter with this one!
That moment shook me a bit, but it also reminded me that I can handle more than I think. And that’s one of the biggest things this solo hike taught me: I am capable.
What I Learned from Hiking Alone:
While this solo hike challenged me, it also rewarded me with valuable lessons I’ll carry with me:
• We are more capable than we think . I learned that I can navigate, face fears, and stay calm (even when something unexpected like a bear encounter occurs).
• Enjoy the solitude. There’s something peaceful and empowering about walking alone in nature.
• Soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature and all of the elements. From wildflowers to wildlife there’s so much to appreciate when you’re present.
• Don’t run from a black bear. Seriously. Stay calm, and give it space.
• Shared experiences matter. While solo hiking was a great experience, I realized that my hiking adventures are even more enjoyable when I share them with someone, especially my sister.
Final Thoughts:
Would I hike solo again? Yes. But I’ll also cherish the moments I get to share the trail with my sister. Whether I’m alone or with someone I love, nature has a way of teaching, humbling, and inspiring. And for that, I’m grateful. Happy trails!
