[pct-l] alone or lonely on the trail?

[David Hough reading PCT-L]

This note is inspired by -

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/19/opinion/coronavirus-loneliness.html

which reminded me that while I have often felt lonely, typically being
alone in a strange city, I've never felt lonely while alone on the trail.
Perhaps I'm just too consumed by achieving my plan for the day, enough miles,
good campsite, enough water...    

I have noticed that the few good photos I've taken were typically when I
was hiking alone.   Though I missed many more good photo opportunities
hurrying along to make it to camp before dark.

When I was doing my Camino, I had off and on trail partners.    When they
were with me, I appreciated the backup - somebody to watch my pack while I
was in the toilet.    When they weren't, I appreciated the ability to stop
and start and detour when and where I wanted on a whim.    Most of all
I appreciated the variety of alternating being alone and being not alone.