To hike solo or not solo? That is the question.
A family hike on Brent’s Trail in the Loess Hills of Iowa.
A group hike can make cherished memories or ruin a friendship. Should you go with friends or alone? Yes.
By Roy Harryman
Publisher
Some can’t imagine hiking without a group of buddies. Others want nobody alongside but the wind. Most of us are probably somewhere in the middle.
A lack of company – or the wrong company – can turn a splendid outing into a drudgery. But an extensive solo hike can become exhausting and isolating. So how do you decide to go alone or with a group? Here are a few ideas.
What is the purpose of the hike?
Is it simply to get out and smell the flowers? If that’s the case, the more the merrier. With no hard-core hiking goals to conquer, you’re free to socialize and adapt to the needs of the group. However, if you plan to set a new land-speed hiking record, don’t bring a half-hearted accomplice along with you. You’ll end up hating each other. This is also an issue when hiking with (most) kids. As much as we may want to conquer the mountain, they just want to play in the creek. Adjusting expectations to meet reality makes for a better experience for all.
A potpourri of family hikes in Missouri and Kansas.
Do you need some alone time?
If you need to get away from it all (including everyone), a solo hike can be therapeutic. It’s extraordinary what an open road and trail can do to free you mind and ignite creativity. If you are a person of faith, it presents a unique opportunity for prayer and meditation while walking. If you’re an introvert who needs to recharge with some “me time,” then a solo hike may be the prescription you need.
The Smoky Hill Wildlife Refuge near Kanopolis, Kansas.
Hiking as a relationship builder
Driving to a trailhead and hiking often means many hours together. It’s a great opportunity to strengthen a relationship with a child (even an adult child), spouse or friend. Maybe you know someone who has been relationally isolated. Bringing them into nature with you could be the encouragement they need. However, make sure anyone you bring actually enjoys walking and nature or you’ll end up taking two steps forward and three steps back.
Do you have to accomplish a task on your hike?
If your purpose is to take photos, set a new personal best or film a video, this might be better accomplished alone. I know this from personal experience. I appreciate all the kind comments people share about my photography, but my continual stopping and snapping drives my family insane. I’ve had to learn to compromise so they don’t leave me behind at the trailhead. However, if you and your hiking mate are both manic photographers, then maybe you’ll be a dynamic hiking duo.
Task-oriented: Getting photos at Kanopolis State Park, Kansas.
Are you a people person? Bring ‘em along.
If your personality lends itself to “the more the merrier,” then hiking with a friend or group can kick-start some endorphins and put the pep back in your step.
Other factors
If you are concerned about personal safety, then there is strength in numbers. I’ve written about hiking, crime and safety here.
If you’re scaling cliffs, walking during treacherous weather or in extreme cold or heat, go with a friend. You might need someone who can dial 911!
If you’re directionally challenged and aren’t using a navigational app, then go with a friend. It’s better to be lost together than alone.
For most of us, hiking is a good combination of group and solo ventures. However you do it, get out and enjoy all trails in Greater Kansas City have to offer.
Roy Harryman is the publisher of Kansas City Hiker. He’s been told he’s not a lot of fun to hike with because seriously underestimates the time commitment.