[pct-l] hiking alone

[shelly skye]

On most of my long hikes (more than two weeks) I have generally hiked alone.
Last summer I went with a friend who is close to my age, we have basically
the same hiking pace and can manage the same miles each day. She doesn't
need to talk a lot and is very self sufficient. We got along well and I
enjoyed our 15 day Sierra journey so I would say by all accounts we were
completely compatible. I must say though that I really missed being alone
out there, able to hike when I wanted, stop to write, photograph and or just
push on till dark when I felt able to do so. Interesting to me, I think
because I was with someone else, I found I didn't meet as many other people
on the trail. I saw and chatted with plenty of people but didn't connect
with them in ways I have on other solo trips, which was quite a surprise.
When I attempt the PCT in 2011, I will definitely begin alone. I expect I
will hike with others sometimes but I assume it will be a solo journey and
will be happy for it to be a solo journey. There is nothing like it.
Shelly