solo road trip hiking

15 Solo Hiking Trips In The US (3-Day Itineraries For Each)

I’ve been a solo traveler for almost a decade now and I am just finally planning my own solo trip around the US. I’m on the hunt for epic solo hikes around the country so that I can get a taste of the national parks across the country.

And who knows, maybe I’ll meet some rad fellow hikers along the way 🙂

Whether you’re looking for a road trip like me or you just want a quick weekend getaway hiking solo, this list will give you something to drool over.

I’ll include links to the AllTrails trail map and resources for planning your little getaway. I got you 😘

Okay, now let’s get into my favorite places for a solo hike in the US.

Solo Hiking Trips in the West 

I’m starting with the West because it’s my favorite place in the whole entire world to go hiking. Although, it’s also the only place in the entire world where I’ve seen a handgun strapped to a hiker’s chest, which made it markedly less peaceful than anywhere else I’ve hiked in the world.

Welcome to the Wild West. Here are some solo hike destinations where the views make it all worth it.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering over 300 miles of trails that range from flat lakeside strolls to challenging steep mountain peak climbs. You might see elk grazing in the meadows, marmots basking on rocks, and if you’re really lucky, a glimpse of the elusive moose. Just remember to keep your cool around the wildlife. They’re not as fond of selfies as we are.

Where to Stay

Estes Park is the gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park and a charming mountain town. Here you can find a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to cute cabins. Just don’t get too freaked out if you hear a bugling elk right outside your window.

Find the perfect home rental for your upcoming trip here 🏠

3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 : Bear Lake to Emerald Lake – Start your journey in the heart of the park. This hike takes you past four stunning alpine lakes and offers up some of the best views in the park. Don’t forget to catch your breath, both from the sights and the altitude!
• Day 2 : Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail – This challenging hike rewards you with one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Rockies. The last stretch requires some scrambling, but the views of Sky Pond are worth every effort.
• Day 3 : Longs Peak – If you’re up for a challenge, Longs Peak is a beast of a hike, but the view from the top is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Be sure to start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Best Time to Visit & How to Get There

The best time to visit is from June to September when the snow has melted, and most trails are accessible. Keep in mind that the park gets pretty crowded in summer, so consider visiting in the shoulder months if you prefer a bit of solitude.

Denver International Airport is about two hours away from the park, making it the most convenient option for flying in. And if you’re up for a road trip, you’ll find that Colorado’s highways are as picturesque as they come.

PRO TIP : Get around and see things off the beaten path on your trip. Book your affordable car rental here .

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

The Grand Teton range stands tall and proud, with jagged peaks that pierce the sky. The park offers over 200 miles of trails, serene alpine lakes, and some of the most stunning mountain landscapes you’ve ever seen. And wildlife? Oh boy, you’re in for a treat. From moose to pronghorns, and from black bears to bald eagles, this is a wildlife lover’s paradise.

Jackson Hole is the best place to be. This town oozes old-timey charm and offers plenty of accommodations, from luxury resorts to rustic lodges. Plus, it’s home to some top-notch grub – so make sure you pack your appetite along with your hiking gear.

HOWEVER it’s insanely expensive (didn’t the Kardashians just vacation there??), so look for places around the area instead. I really like Driggs, Idaho , which is on the other side of the Tetons and is filled with epic hikes and zero tourists on the trails.

• Day 1 : Jenny Lake Loop – Start your Teton adventure with a leisurely hike around Jenny Lake, a stunning glacier-formed lake at the base of the Tetons. The views are nothing short of spectacular, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a side trip to Hidden Falls is well worth the detour.
• Day 2 : Cascade Canyon – This trail offers a bit of everything – alpine meadows, pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and impressive views of the Grand Teton. Remember to keep your camera ready. The views – and wildlife – can surprise you around any bend.
• Day 3 : Teton Crest Trail – If you’re up for a challenge, this trail offers some of the best high-altitude trekking in the park. The panoramic views of the Teton Range are a sight to behold. Just remember, it’s not a race. Take your time and soak in the views.

The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is from May to September when the weather is warm, and all facilities and roads are open. But if you’re a fan of winter sports, the park offers unparalleled skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.

The closest airport is Jackson Hole Airport , conveniently located right in the park. If you’re driving, U.S. Highway 89 leads straight into the park.

Zion National Park, Utah

Located in Utah’s southwestern corner, Zion is a geological wonderland that’s bursting with hues of red, pink, and cream. The park boasts a unique array of plants and animals, and the trails will take you from desert to forest, challenging your perception of “the great outdoors”. And hey, who needs skyscrapers when you’ve got monoliths like the Court of the Patriarchs?

Springdale is the closest town to Zion and offers a wide array of accommodations, from boutique hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts. Plus, the town’s free shuttle service will drop you right at the park’s entrance. It’s so convenient, you might even forgive them for not serving your favorite brand of coffee.

Check out my post all about how to spend one da y in Zion for more details about the area, including where to stay and another trail to explore!

• Day 1 : West Rim Trail – I did this trail a few years ago with my friend Jillian and honestly it was the best damn thing of my life. It was so impactful that it inspired my entire RAV4 conversion. You’ll start at the top of the canyon and work your way down to the valley floor. It’s an all-day thing and you’ll need to organize an early morning pick up.
• Day 2 : Angel’s Landing – This trail is not for the faint of heart, but if you can handle steep drop-offs and narrow paths, the view from the top is out of this world. It’s like standing on top of a stone skyscraper, minus the glass windows and elevator music. You’ll need a permit to do this, so plan ahead. Apply for a permit here .
• Day 3 : Emerald Pools – For your last day, take it a bit easier with a hike to the Emerald Pools. A lot of it is shaded and it’s not too steep, so it could be a fun trail to recover from the previous days. It can get crowded since it’s in the valley, but that’s kinda how it is in some national parks.

The best time to visit Zion National Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild. Summer can be scorching, and many trails can be icy in winter.

The closest major airport is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, about 2.5 hours away by car. If you’re driving, Zion is a fairly easy drive from many locations in the Southwest.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is a paradise for hikers, offering over 750 miles of trails. Here, you can walk amongst ancient sequoias, gaze up at the mighty El Capitan, or watch as the setting sun turns Half Dome into a fiery beacon. And the wildlife? From black bears to mule deer, you’ll find plenty of wild neighbors here.

The park itself is home to a range of accommodations, including the historic Ahwahnee Hotel. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in Mariposa , a charming town just outside the park that offers a range of lodging options.

• Day 1 : Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias – Start your Yosemite adventure by stepping into a real-life fairy tale amongst the giant sequoias. The Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are must-sees.
• Day 2 : Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls – Get ready to feel the mist on your face as you hike past two of Yosemite’s most spectacular waterfalls. The steps are steep, but the views are unbeatable.
• Day 3 : Glacier Point and Sentinel Dome – For your final day, soak in the panoramic views of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point. Then, take a leisure stroll to Sentinel Dome for a 360-degree view of the park. You’ll feel on top of the world!

The best time to visit Yosemite is during the spring when the waterfalls are at their peak. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique beauty.

The closest airports are Fresno-Yosemite International and Merced Regional, both about 1.5-2 hours away by car. If you’re road-tripping, highways 41, 140, and 120 all lead to the park.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Dominating the landscape, Mount Rainier is the highest mountain of the Cascade Range and an iconic symbol of Washington. Around the mountain, wildflower meadows bloom, ancient forests whisper tales of old, and waterfalls cascade into clear rivers. And the wildlife? Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, elk, and marmots.

The small town of Ashford is just outside the park’s entrance and offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy cabins to comfortable inns. It’s the perfect base for your Mount Rainier adventure.

• Day 1 : Skyline Trail to Panorama Point – Start your journey with a hike to Panorama Point, where stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks will take your breath away.
• Day 2 :  Spray Park Trail : This 6.5-mile out-and-back trail offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and wildflower-filled meadows. The trail starts at Mowich Lake and climbs up to Spray Park, which is known for its stunning alpine meadows.
• Day 3 : Burroughs Mountain Trail – For your final day, challenge yourself with a hike to the Burroughs Mountains. The panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Emmons glacier are simply unforgettable.

The best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park is from July to September when the weather is mild and most of the park’s facilities are open.

The closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International , about a two-hour drive from the park. If you’re driving, you can access the park via State Route 706.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream come true, boasting over 700 miles of trails. Here, you can wander through alpine meadows, trek up rugged peaks, or simply sit by a crystal-clear lake and ponder why you didn’t become a full-time adventurer sooner.

The gateway town of Whitefish offers a variety of accommodations and is only a short drive from the park’s entrance. Plus, its charming downtown is worth exploring, so don’t rush to hit the hay just yet.

• Day 1 : Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake – Kickstart your Glacier adventure with a leisurely stroll on the Trail of the Cedars, followed by a hike to the stunning Avalanche Lake. Don’t forget your camera; you’re gonna want to remember this.
• Day 2 : Highline Trail – Get ready for an epic hike along the Continental Divide. The Highline Trail offers panoramic views of the park and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Day 3 : Iceberg Lake Trail – Wrap up your trip with a hike to Iceberg Lake. It’s a bit of a trek, but the sight of icebergs floating in the lake, even in the heat of summer, is something you won’t forget.

The best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer months when all facilities and roads are open. However, fall offers beautiful colors and fewer crowds.

The closest airports are Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell and Great Falls International Airport. If you’re driving, U.S. Highway 2 runs along the southern boundary of the park.

Solo Hiking Trips in the South

I’ve been staying with my grandma in Arizona lately and exploring some national parks around me in the desert. I’ve grown to love this rocky and dry landscape and can’t wait to explore it more.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Here, you’ll find everything from arid desert to lush forests, all in the shadow of ancient fossilized reefs. With over 80 miles of trails, this park offers something for every level of hiker. And let’s not forget the wildlife. From mule deer to over 300 species of birds, this park is teeming with life.

The park itself doesn’t have any lodging, but nearby Carlsbad, New Mexico , offers a variety of options. Plus, after a day of hiking, who wouldn’t want to relax in a comfortable bed?

• Day 1 : Devil’s Hall Trail – Start your adventure with a hike to Devil’s Hall, a natural rock hallway that’s as intriguing as it sounds.
• Day 2 : Guadalupe Peak Trail – Lace up for a challenge and hike up to the highest peak in Texas. The view from the top is worth every step.
• Day 3 : McKittrick Canyon – Spend your last day exploring McKittrick Canyon. In the fall, the changing colors are spectacular.

The best time to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park is in the fall when the temperatures are cooler and the foliage is at its peak.

The closest major airports are in El Paso, Texas , and Midland-Odessa, Texas . From there, you can rent a car and make the drive to the park.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

In Big Bend, you’ll find a truly unique landscape where desert meets mountains and the Rio Grande flows freely. With over 150 miles of trails, you can hike to your heart’s content, exploring everything from canyons to hot springs. And the wildlife? It’s a haven for bird watchers with over 450 species recorded.

Did you realize Texas had something like this??! I sure didn’t.

The nearest town is Terlingua , which offers a range of accommodations and a taste of Texas’ quirky side. Trust me, you haven’t seen Texas until you’ve seen Terlingua.

• Day 1 : Lost Mine Trail – Start your Big Bend adventure with a hike on the Lost Mine Trail. It offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert.
• Day 2 : Santa Elena Canyon Trail – On your second day, take a trip to the Rio Grande and hike the Santa Elena Canyon Trail. The views of the towering canyon walls will leave you breathless.
• Day 3 : Hot Springs Historic Trail and Boquillas Canyon Trail – Wrap up your trip with a visit to the hot springs followed by a hike on the Boquillas Canyon Trail. Don’t forget to dip your toes in the Rio Grande!

The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder.

The closest airport is in Midland-Odessa, Texas , and it’s about a four-hour drive to the park. If you’re driving, the park can be accessed via US Highway 385.

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

This park is like a John Wayne movie set, but instead of stagehands and camera crews, you’ll find real-life roadrunners, coyotes, and, of course, the park’s namesake, the giant saguaro cactus.

Split into two districts on either side of Tucson, the park offers a stunning desert landscape that’s bursting with life. Hiking trails range from easy strolls to challenging treks up desert peaks, and the sunsets? Let’s just say they’re worth the trip alone.

Tucson is right in the middle of the two park districts and offers a variety of accommodations. Plus, it’s a city with its own desert charm, so don’t miss the chance to explore.

• Day 1 : Valley View Overlook Trail (West) – Start your adventure with a short hike to the Valley View Overlook. The views of the desert filled with saguaro cacti are truly iconic.
• Day 2 : Hugh Norris Trail (West) – Lace up for a challenging hike up to Wasson Peak. The trail offers panoramic views of the desert and Tucson.
• Day 3 : Cactus Forest Loop Drive and Mica View Trail (East) – Spend your last day exploring the eastern district. Start with the scenic drive, then take a leisure stroll on the Mica View Trail.

The best time to visit Saguaro National Park is during the winter and spring when temperatures are more comfortable for hiking.

Tucson International Airport is the closest major airport. If you’re driving, access to the park is via Speedway Blvd for the East and Kinney Rd for the West.

If you go, then check out my guide to one day in Tucson, Arizona for 30 fun things to do in and around Tucson.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico

Nestled in the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico, Bandelier protects over 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country.

The main attraction? The remarkably preserved dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Here, you’ll walk in the footsteps of ancient inhabitants, exploring petroglyphs, dwellings carved into soft cliff rock, and standing masonry walls of a bygone civilization.

The nearby city of Los Alamos offers a range of accommodations and is only a short drive from the monument. And hey, if you’re a science geek, don’t miss the Bradbury Science Museum in town!

• Day 1: Main Loop Trail and Alcove House – Start your journey back in time on the Main Loop Trail. Don’t miss climbing the ladders to the Alcove House, a ceremonial cave located 140 feet above the canyon floor.
• Day 2 : Falls Trail – Spend your second day hiking the Falls Trail. It’s a bit of a trek, but the sight of the Upper Falls is worth every step.
• Day 3 : Tsankawi Prehistoric Sites – Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Tsankawi section of the park. Be sure to walk the 1.5-mile Tsankawi Village Trail, and let the history soak in.

The best time to visit Bandelier National Monument is from May to September when the weather is warm and all facilities are open.

The closest major airport is Albuquerque International Sunport . If you’re driving, you can reach the monument via New Mexico State Highway 4.

Solo Hiking Trips in the Midwest

Everyone loves the Midwest and the Midwest loves everyone. With beautiful nature trails that lead you to refreshing bodies of water, you can’t help but fall in love with this solo hiking destination.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan

Affectionately known as the “Porkies,” this park is a hidden gem that’s bursting with unspoiled beauty.

Here, you’ll find Michigan’s largest old-growth hardwood-hemlock forest, rugged hills, roaring waterfalls, and sweeping views of Lake Superior. With over 90 miles of hiking trails, you can explore to your heart’s content. And let’s not forget the wildlife – from black bears to bald eagles, the Porkies are teeming with life.

The nearby town of Ontonagon offers accommodations and is a gateway to the “Porkies.” Plus, it’s a charming town that’s worth exploring.

• Day 1 : Escarpment Trail – Start your adventure with a hike on the Escarpment Trail, where you’ll have panoramic views of Lake Superior and the park’s interior.
• Day 2 : Lake of the Clouds to Big Carp River Trail – Spend your second day hiking from the stunning Lake of the Clouds down to the Big Carp River Trail. Be prepared for some rugged terrain and amazing waterfalls.
• Day 3 : Presque Isle River Scenic Area – Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Presque Isle River Scenic Area. The river’s three main waterfalls are a sight to behold.

The best time to visit the Porcupine Mountains is during the summer and fall. The fall colors are spectacular, and the summer weather is ideal for hiking.

The closest major airport is Duluth International Airport in Minnesota . If you’re driving, the park is accessible via Michigan State Highway 107.

Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Spanning 1.2 million acres, the Ozarks offer an incredibly diverse landscape – from hardwood forests and rolling hills to babbling brooks and towering bluffs.

You’ll find over 500 miles of hiking trails here, each one offering its own unique view of the forest’s beauty. And the wildlife? Let’s just say, keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a black bear!

The nearby town of Jasper offers accommodations and is known as the “Jewel of the Ozarks.” It’s also your gateway to the breathtaking Buffalo National River.

• Day 1 : Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area – Start your adventure with a hike around Pedestal Rocks. The unique rock formations and scenic views are a fantastic introduction to the Ozarks.
• Day 2 : Whitaker Point Trail – Spend your second day hiking to Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag. It’s one of the most photographed places in Arkansas for a reason!
• Day 3 : Glory Hole Falls Trail – Wrap up your trip with a relatively short hike to Glory Hole Falls. It’s not every day you see water pouring through a hole in an overhang!

The best time to visit the Ozark National Forest is during the spring when the wildflowers bloom, and in the fall when the leaves change color.

The closest major airport is in Little Rock, Arkansas . From there, you can rent a car and drive to the forest.

Solo Hiking Trips in the East 

The East Coast is filled with all kinds of long, meandering hikes and views that would make you want to settle. Here are a few 3-day itineraries to explore some of the best solo hikes on the East Coast.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a gem of the East Coast, with over 47,000 acres of postcard-perfect landscapes, including rugged cliffs, serene ponds, and forests that feel like they’ve sprung right out of a fairy tale. You’ll find yourself surrounded by the intoxicating scent of pine and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some adorable critters like deer, foxes, and more than 330 bird species that call this park home.

Bar Harbor is your go-to place for a stay. Think charming bed and breakfasts, cozy inns, and lobster—lots of it. Bar Harbor is conveniently located near the park entrance, making it an ideal base for all your hiking adventures.

• Day 1 : Cadillac Mountain – Start your solo hiking journey with a bang by conquering the park’s tallest peak. It’s the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise, but no judgment if you opt for a sunset hike instead. The view will knock your socks off regardless.
• Day 2 : Jordan Pond Path – This flat 3.3-mile loop trail offers a relaxing hike with mesmerizing views of the pond and the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to stop at the Jordan Pond House for some popovers – a delicious Acadia tradition!
• Day 3 : Precipice Trail – Not for the faint of heart, this steep and thrilling trail will have you clambering up iron rungs and along narrow ledges. But the sweeping views of the Atlantic at the top? Totally worth the adrenaline rush.

Fall is arguably the best time to visit Acadia National Park, when the forest bursts into brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow. But really, there’s no bad time to visit (unless you’re not a fan of Maine’s snowy winters).

To get there, catch a flight to Bangor International Airport , about an hour’s drive from the park. If you’re more of a road tripper, take the scenic route along U.S. Route 1 – just prepare for the jaw-dropping coastal views and cute little towns along the way.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah is a haven for hikers, boasting more than 500 miles of trails. The park is home to cascading waterfalls, awe-inspiring lookouts, and a forest that whispers tales of the olden days. With its diverse wildlife, you might spot white-tailed deer, black bears, and countless bird species. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Bigfoot… okay, just kidding about that last one!

When it comes to lodging, the town of Luray, VA is your best bet. Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, it offers a range of accommodations from quaint B&Bs to rustic cabins. Plus, it’s close to the famous Luray Caverns, which is worth a visit if you have some extra time.

• Day 1 : Old Rag Mountain – This is one of the park’s most popular hikes, and for a good reason. It’s a challenging trek with rock scrambles galore, but once you reach the summit, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite. You might even start humming “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
• Day 2 : Whiteoak Canyon/Cedar Run Circuit – Ready for some waterfall action? This trail offers six waterfalls, with plenty of spots to take a refreshing dip. Just remember: what goes down, must come up. This hike is a bit of a workout, but hey, who needs a StairMaster when you’ve got nature?
• Day 3 : Hawksbill Mountain – No visit to Shenandoah would be complete without ascending its highest peak. The panoramic views from the summit will leave you breathless – and not just because of the hike up!

Shenandoah shines in the fall when the leaves turn the park into a masterpiece of autumnal colors. However, spring is equally enchanting with blooming wildflowers adorning the trails.

Washington Dulles International Airport is the nearest major airport, about 1.5 hours away by car. Alternatively, if you’re up for a road trip, Shenandoah is an easy drive from many East Coast cities.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina/Tennessee

Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a world of unspoiled forests, mesmerizing waterfalls, and, if you’re lucky, synchronized fireflies. Yep, you read that right.

With over 800 miles of trails, the Smokies offer a bit of everything for everyone, from challenging mountain treks to peaceful waterfall walks. This park is also a wildlife paradise. You may see black bears, elk, and if you’re really quiet, maybe even a salamander or two. They don’t call it the “Salamander Capital of the World” for nothing!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee , is your go-to base for exploring the Smokies. With its mountain charm, a plethora of restaurants, and even a ski resort, it’s a hiker’s paradise. For a quieter vibe, check out Townsend on the “peaceful side of the Smokies.”

• Day 1 : Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte – Start your Smokies adventure with a bang! This trail is steep but offers everything from a natural cave to awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Make sure to high-five the llamas at the summit. They help carry supplies up to the lodge!
• Day 2 : Ramsey Cascades – Time for some waterfall magic. This trail will lead you to the park’s tallest waterfall, and the old-growth forest along the way is equally enchanting. Just watch your step; the trail can get a bit rocky.
• Day 3 : Cades Cove Loop – For your final day, take it easy with a scenic drive or bike ride around Cades Cove. This valley offers stunning landscapes, historical buildings, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s like stepping back in time.

The best time to visit is during the fall when the Smokies live up to their name with a stunning display of fall colors. However, the park is open year-round, and each season brings its own charm.

The closest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, Tennessee , about an hour away from the park. If you’re road-tripping, the park is within a day’s drive of roughly two-thirds of the population of the U.S.

Planning Your Solo Hiking Trip

As for planning your little solo trips, you’ll need a few things to get started. If you’re far away from your chosen hiking trip, then a quick flight plus a car rental would be the best option.

If you are close enough to drive, then renting a car will help get you there without the wear and tear on your own car.

I always recommend getting a Chase Sapphire card so that you can rack up points and have certain protections while traveling (like car rental insurance).

For accommodations, I like renting homes or apartments via VRBO . It’s always the most comfortable for me and you’ll get great local recommendations wherever you go.

Safety Considerations for Solo Travelers

Solo travelers have the freedom to go where they please (and take a solo hike anywhere in the world!), but this lifestyle does come with a few risks. While I’ve never run into any issues myself, there is a lot that can happen unexpectedly safety-wise.

I like to be super cautious and take every step to protect myself and also keep myself out of harm’s way. Here are the ways I do that:

• Research the Area : Understand the specific challenges and conditions of the region you’ll be hiking in. This includes local wildlife, trail difficulty, altitude, and weather conditions.
• Check the Weather : Always check the forecast before you set off. Weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas, and can impact trail conditions significantly.
• Plan Your Route: Know your trail before you start. Familiarize yourself with the route, significant landmarks, and where you can access help if needed.
• Pack Wisely : Pack light but ensure you have all essentials like food, water, first aid, map, compass, and appropriate clothing.
• Inform Someone : Always let someone know your plans – where you’re going, the route you’re taking, and when you expect to be back.
• Know Your Limits : Don’t overestimate your hiking ability. Start with shorter, less challenging trails and work your way up as you get more comfortable.
• Take a Communication Device : In case of emergency, have a way to communicate or signal for help. This could be a cell phone, a whistle, or a Personal Locator Beacon. I use the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator .
• Respect Nature : Follow the Leave No Trace principles to ensure nature remains untouched for future hikers to enjoy.

Once you sort of keep this mentality in the back of your mind, solo travel becomes an absolutely exhilarating experience. I’m so excited to be a part of your journey!

Ready for an adventure?

Did you find a hiking trail (or two) that tickles your fancy? Or a few national parks that you didn’t know existed? Same! I’ll be taking off on my solo hiker trip pretty soon and I’ll be writing about it along the way! If you haven’t already, subscribe to my newsletter to get a behind-the-scenes look at my trip.

Read more about Exploring The United States

• My return to US living as a digital nomad
• 10 Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip For Solo Travelers
• 7 Unforgettable USA Road Trip Ideas With Complete Itineraries
• 17 Best Hikes on the East Coast
• 21 Best Lakes in Montana For Floating, Hiking, & Fishing

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Hiking: Essential Tips to Hike Alone and Love It

April 17, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Solo hiking can mean many things. It can mean hiking absolutely alone, it can mean joining a group on a hike, or it can mean hiking alone with the back up of a company that will do things like plan your route and move your gear from one place to another.

I have done all three, and I've had hiking success stories , hiking humiliations , and the relaxed comfort of a company making all the hiking arrangements for me . The experiences have been exhilarating and often result in good stories to tell afterwards.

Most of my solo hikes are simply about slowing down and enjoying my destination at a different pace. On solo hikes, more than when hiking with companions, you experience sounds and smells as well as sights that you might otherwise miss. It's relaxing. It offers time to think about things. It can be as spiritual as it is physical.

Whether you're going solo on your own itinerary or joining a walking group, there are a few things you need to know.

Table of Contents

Hiking Gear: Four Essential Purchases for Solo Hiking

You don't need a lot of gear to go hiking, but a few well chosen items will make the difference between an enjoyable hike and a miserable one, or between a lifetime of hiking and the end of your hiking career.

The right footwear is essential. What you wear on your feet really counts. Well-structured boots or shoes protect you from an ankle turned on a root. Waterproofing is essential as the weather can never be guaranteed. I have hiking shoes and boots. Mucky weather calls for boots and a fine summer day for shoes. After 14 years, my Berghaus boots have finally suffered a fatal blow. I'm in the market for new ones and will update this when I've tried and tested new hiking boots.

Fresh socks at least once a day, if not more often . Whether it's from rain or sweat, a pair of fresh socks every day is necessary. If your feet are getting wet, a change during the day is a good idea.

Protect your knees with poles. I know that poles seem like something only older people need but this is not the case. The osteopathic community encourages even young people to use poles to protect their knees so that they can enjoy a lifetime of hiking.

A simple whistle. One very small purchase that can increase safety on any hike is a whistle .

Hike Solo, Pack Light

A trip that includes a lot of hiking requires a day pack and a backpack.

My backpack holds 36 liters. It meets most airline carry-on standards and restricts just how much I can carry so that the weight of the pack is manageable. The features I appreciate most in a pack are full front access, built in rain cover, outside pockets and cords for easy access to items, good hip and shoulder straps and, if possible, that it is adjustable for height.

Unlike packing for a normal trip, a destination that will involve a lot of hiking requires more meticulous packing. I suggest that you start a week before you leave. Scrutinize every little thing that you're going to carry and take pieces (and weight) away from it day after day.

For details on selecting and packing your backpack, read Backpacking Solo: How to Plan an Exhilarating & Safe Budget Trip .

Where to Hike Alone: 12 Suggestions

You don't have to take on Mount Everest to enjoy a spectacular hike. You don't have to walk across England to experience that country's walking culture.

Hiking and walking are available at just about any fitness level. However, it's important to know your own strength and stamina so that you plan a successful trip.

There are so many spectacular hiking destinations in the world. Here are just a few posts that will give you information on hiking in specific locations. Most are about day hikes.

• Plitvice Lakes, Croatia: Sprinklers and Waterfalls
• The Spectacular Isle of Skye Without a Car
• Solo Travel Destination: The West Highland Way, Scotland
• Beyond Sydney: Bushwalking in the Blue Mountains
• Travel Solo on a Self-Guided Walking Tour: See France Slowly
• Solo Travel Destination: Isle of Wight, England
• Another Hiking Humiliation and Then… Redemption
• Italy’s Spectacular Amalfi Coast Solo on a Group Walking Tour
• London and the Lake District: 12-Day Itinerary
• Walking the Camino Solo: Life-Changing for Body, Mind & Spirit
• Solo in Moab, Utah & Arches National Park
• Of Gobbins and Giants: Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route

Do you hike alone? Have you done so in a destination you would recommend to other solo travelers? Consider submitting a post about your trip .

Safety for Solo Hiking

Some trails are quiet, which is wonderful. Solitude is often what we seek as we travel solo. But when hiking, things can happen. We have to think of safety as well. Here are a few rules that I live by when I hike alone.

• Plan the hike and let someone know the plan. This is the most basic of rules. Plan where you're going to go and leave the information with someone responsible. Whether that's your hostel manager, a note in your room, or a text to a friend, make sure that someone knows your plan and make sure that you stick to the plan.
• Take water and food . It doesn't have to be a lot of food, but carry something with you in case you get off the trail or that restaurant you were anticipating at the halfway mark is closed. You need to have something to sustain you in case something goes wrong.
• Know when sunset is and how long your hike will take.  Make sure that your plan gets you back well before the light leaves.
• Know the trail markers. These can vary from country to country, so know what the trail markers mean before you head out.
• Notice how busy the trail is. If you're seeing people every five minutes or so, you don't have much to worry about. Should something go wrong, someone will be along soon and be able to help. If you seem quite alone on the trail, take extra precautions.
• Stay on the trail . You may be tempted to divert to a waterfall, but stay on the planned route.
• Know how to deal with wildlife . People who hike together make noise. They chat. Hiking solo is a quiet activity. Take a bell or a whistle with you if you have any concern about animals. On some trails, bear spray may be a good idea too.
• Crossing rivers or streams. Take the extra steps to use the bridge. If none is available, go where the water is shallow. A deep, fast-moving stream can easily knock you over.
• Take note of landmarks. Yes, you need to watch your step, but look up. See what's around you. Enjoy the beauty. And, as you do, take note of landmarks that will help guide you back if need be.
• S – Stay calm. Relax, sit down, take a sip of water, breathe slowly.
• T – Think. Get out your map and see what you can learn.
• O – Observe. Look for landmarks, look for footprints.
• P – Plan. If you know the route, go carefully and mark your trail along the way.
• If you're really unsure, stay in one place . It's a rule of the woods. You're easier to find that way. Periodically blow your whistle three times. Three blasts of the whistle is an international distress call.

Looking for more places to hike alone? Here are Hiking Destinations for Solo Travelers: Safe, Easy, Stunning Options . And please don't forget to buy travel insurance. Here's what you need to know about that: Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers: How to Make Sure You’re Protected .

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Solo Hiking Tips – Things to Know about Hiking Alone

Updated: February 18, 2023

Adventure Travel , Hiking , Tips & Tricks

written by: Steph Kloeckener

Whether you are already a passionate solo hiker or are just thinking of hiking alone: Here are 13 solo hiking tips you should know before you hit the (next) trail.

A wide open trail and no sound but the wind, chirping birds and your own footprints – that is why comes to mind when I think about hiking alone. It is the ultimate way to connect with nature and allows you to just be in the moment. Solo hiking allows you to feel the rush of freedom as you are the one that gets to choose where you will go, where you will stop and so much more.

And yet, it is a freedom that does not come without its risks, as the peaceful solitude also comes with a certain danger. Therefore, there are some things to keep in mind when hiking alone. Aside from preparing your hike and packing all essentials, there are things you should do as you are hiking.

You will find a list of all these things to do and some additional solo hiking tips below. These tips apply to newbie solo hikers and solo hiking veterans alike, as mere experience itself does not keep you safe on the trail. So give them a read and ensure that you are safe when you venture out on your own.

Table of Contents

Why hike alone

There are many reasons why people hike alone, ranging from the wish to enjoy the sound of silence to having no hiking buddy, or even just the desire to challenge oneself. I, for one, have gone on solo hikes for all these reasons. Sometimes, on my own with my camera as my only companion and other times with my dog.

I love the freedom solo hiking gives me. It allows me to think and reconnect with nature. It is a small break from working that reminds me why I started this adventure travel blog. And it is the closest I can come to feeling like a solo traveler when I can only explore my own region of Germany .

But while I love it, I am only well aware of the dangers that come with hiking alone. Therefore, I want to make the following thing clear:

It is important that you solo hike because you want to, and not because someone told you it is cool or because it is the ‘thing to do’. Hiking alone is not for everyone and that is perfectly fine. The decision is a personal one and should not be influenced by the perception of others.

Tackling a trail alone can be physically and mentally challenging, and should only be done if it feels right to YOU as an individual.

I might love the freedom it grants me and do encourage others to give it a go, but only if said person feels confident enough in their abilities to do it. So please read these solo hiking tips to learn more about what to keep in mind when hiking alone and then make a decision that is the right one for you.

There is no shame in preferring to hike with friends, and doing so certainly has its benefits too. And if you have no hiking buddy, you can always join a local hiking group. It is one of the best ways to make friends in a new city . Hike in a sustainable and ethical manner that makes you happy, as that is all that matters when you start your adventure.

This post may contain affiliate links(*), which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full disclosure for further information.

Things to do before you hike alone

1. let someone know where you are going.

It is amazing to hike alone, but you should never leave caution at home when you venture out into the wilderness. While not that likely, things could go wrong if you injure yourself or you get lost, so it is always ideal to let someone else know where you are going. This way, someone will know where to send help in case an incident occurs.

It is also a good idea to tell someone when you will be back from your hike and to tell them that you will give them a call or send them a message once you are back at your car or the trailhead. If you do not contact said person on time, they can then inform a ranger station and a search and rescue operation will be organized timely.

Leaving a note with your location and trail information in your car is another solo hiking tip. Especially, if you make any last-minute changes to your route. Just ensure, that you flip the note around so strangers cannot see where you are going if there is not an emergency.

2. Choose a well-known trail that is frequented by others

While off-the-beaten-track adventures are great, they are usually not ideal for a solo hike. At least not, if you are hiking alone for the first time. You might need help at one point or your sense of navigation might be off, so it is ideal to choose a well-marked trail that is frequented by other hikers.

If the trail is well marked, you do not have to stress about accidentally getting lost or ending up on the wrong path, and if there are fellow hikers, you might even make some new friends.

Once you have been hiking alone for a while and are more confident in your navigation skills, you can explore the beauty of more remote areas. Just ensure, that you bring a good navigation GPS device. The Garmin InReach Mini is a good option as it also lets you send your GPS coordinates to others.

3. Research the route in advance

If you want to solo hike, you should familiarize yourself with the route you will be hiking. Doing so ensures that you know what you are in for in terms of elevation gain and total distance, and if there are any particularly difficult passages along the way that might deem the route not ideal for you.

If you study your route in advance, you also know if there are any amenities or scenic detours, so it helps you prepare for a good and safe hike.

4. Know what to look out for in terms of wildlife

There are predators such as bears, wild cats, wolves, and more in many popular hiking areas, so knowing about their existence and how to react if you encounter a wild animal is a crucial step in planning your solo hike. Most regions have very specific behavior recommendations for wildlife encounters, and knowing what to do might just save your life whether you or hiking alone or with friends.

Aside from predators, the forests and national parks that are home to many amazing hikes are also home to a large number of other animals. Therefore, doing some research about the local animal also enables you to know which rare sight you might want to keep an eye out for and if there is a specific area with a greater chance of spotting unique animals.

5. Check the weather & other warnings

It is always crucial to check what the weather will be like before you start your hike. Furthermore, you should check if there are any additional warnings that might impact your hikes like an ongoing bushfire or a flood warning.

If you are hiking on your own this step is crucial, as you cannot rely on anyone else to do it for you.

It is okay if it starts to rain while you are hiking, but if the forecast predicts a thunderstorm, it is best to reschedule your hike.

If you are a photographer like me, you might also want to check out what the cloud cover will be like. After all, the clouds will have a large impact on the light conditions.

To get all relevant information about the weather, I use the Clime app of the NOAA , which is a weather radar app that displays everything from rain showers to thunderstorms and wildfires. There is a free version, but the annual subscription of 20.49€ is well worth it. It’s available for iOS and Android.

Additionally, I usually check the Windy.com data before setting out on a solo hike.

Solo Hiking Tips: Essentials

6. use a navigation aid.

If you want to hike alone, you have to download the route or bring a map. Otherwise, there is a good chance that you will get lost – especially if you have yet to train your navigation skills.

Another crucial thing to do is to ensure that your map is correct. Not doing this was one of my more recent hiking blunders and could have easily been a fatal travel mishap . After all, I nearly ended up in an active military training area where shots were fired with live ammunition. Be sure to use an updated trail map and do not just trust every route you find on popular hiking apps.

If you solo hike a lot, it might be a very good idea to buy a Garmin Inreach Mini , as it allows you to track your location and also send the GPS data to family and friends.

7. Pack enough food and water

Once you have started your hike, there is a good likelihood that you will not get the chance to buy water and snacks until you have reached the end of the trail, Therefore, you have to ensure that you have a sufficient amount of water and snacks on you.

When hiking alone, there is no one that might be able to give you some of their water or food, so think about what you need for your chosen trail and then pack some more as an emergency ratio. I usually take at least 2 liters with me when I am planning a shorter hike but for longer hikes or on warm days 3 liters are better.

If you do not want to carry an insulated bottle , you can also opt for a water bladder that decreases in size as you drink. Should you plan a very long or multi-day hike or explore very remote areas, you should also consider bringing a LifeStraw as it allows you to safely drink from natural water sources.

Buy your hiking essentials now

8. Wear suitable clothes & bring additional layers

Wearing suitable clothes while hiking is always crucial, but even more so when you are hiking alone. After all, you have no hiking buddy that might be able to lend you a spare scarf, hat, or gloves.

Keep in mind, that it is a good idea to bring a scarf, a hat, and gloves even if it is sunny if you will gain altitude while hiking. After all, the air near the top of the mountain is colder and the wind in open areas feels chilly.

The weather could also change while you hike, so it is always a good idea to pack at least a thin rain jacket. I prefer 2-in-1 rain jackets with a softshell layer that can be separated from the waterproof outer jacket.

When I hike, I tend to wear an onion look, as it allows me to take off things if it gets too warm and put them back on as soon as I start feeling cold. I can only advise you to do the same unless you are hiking in tropical climates or exploring Australian national parks like Karijini .

9. Bring an emergency kit

Accidents can happen while solo hiking, so having an emergency first aid kit on you is a necessity. The most commonly used items are blister bandages, so ensure that you have some on you. Other useful items are bandaids, bandages, sterile gauze, something anti-septic, and antihistamines.

In addition to that, I now also put some bigger waterproof bandaids in my solo hiking emergency kit. After all, I do not want a repeat of the aftermath of my trip to the Banya Wana Amertha waterfall .

10. Bring a charged power bank

For some unexplainable reason, phone batteries have the annoying habit that they are always empty when you need your phone the most, and that is the last thing you want while hiking. Especially, if you desperately have to use your phone in an emergency situation. Therefore, bringing a fully charged power bank is a good idea when you are hiking alone.

They do not weigh much and it might even be worth it to pack two just to be on the safe side. If you do, you will not have to worry about using your phone as a navigation device or taking a lot of photos and videos with it.

Depending on your camera model, you might also be able to use the power banks to recharge your camera. Just ensure, that you have the cable of your GoPro or another action cam on you.

Crucial Tips for Hiking Alone

11. stay within your comfort zone & accept your limits.

I believe that this one is the most crucial solo hiking tip or rather rule, as things tend to go wrong when you try to exceed your limits while hiking alone. There is no need to push the limits when you are already doing something that comes with a certain risk.

So know how far you can hike without being exhausted and if there is anything you struggle with, and select a trail based on that. Do not hesitate to walk back or cancel the hike if you do not feel up to it or encounter a part of the hike that you do not feel comfortable tackling.

And under no circumstances hike alone just to prove something to someone. There are many reasons to solo hike, but pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone for this reason is never a good idea.

12. Routinely look back

While you should look at the trail ahead of you, it is also important to routinely look back while hiking alone. After all, the area looks completely different from a different perspective, which means you likely would not recognize landmarks from another angle. By looking back, you will know what the landscape and significant location markers look like when following the trail in the opposite direction.

While it might appear useless at first glance, it can be really helpful and save you a lot of trouble if you have to backtrack for some reason. This simple solo hiking tip drastically reduces the chances of you getting lost. Thanks to looking back, you will know which trail to follow if there is a split in the trail or if a part of the trail is not clearly visible.

Also, consider taking photos of prominent features or waymarkers so you can use them as an orientation aid if you get lost and are in an emergency situation.

13. Do not listen to music

I have to admit that I am somewhat guilty of this myself, as I occasionally like listening to musing when solo hiking, as it can be a great motivation. However, doing so is not without risks, which is why I do not recommend it. When hiking alone, you want to be able to hear what is going on around you as that is the only way to know if there are animals, other hikers, or even a rockslide outside of your field of vision.

If you listen to music, you are isolating yourself from your surroundings, so you will also not hear someone calling for help. And while you might have alone to enjoy the solitude, you should definitely always be prepared to help others that are doing the same thing as you.

Additionally, you will also not hear if another human approaches you from behind. And while this is usually not an issue, it has to potential to be a dangerous situation – especially if you are a woman that is hiking alone. Do yourself a favor and do not risk listing to music with two earplugs in while you hike or at a loud volume.

I personally think that quiet ambient music and one earplug are usually fine as it still allows me to hear what is going on around me.

However, there are plenty of scenarios where I would not do so including while hiking in an area with major predators.

Know, that this is my personal stance and that every single solo hiker should think of the downsides of listening to music before deciding what is best for him or her.

Solo Hiking FAQ

Is it a good idea to hike alone.

Let’s say it like this: As long as you know what you are doing and abide the basic safety rules of hiking alone, it is a good idea to solo hike. Just ensure, that you do it for the right reasons and not because someone else is pushing you to do it. Keep in mind that it is not a good idea if you have no prior hiking experience. It is crucial to know your own limits and have some navigation skills if you want to take a trail alone. So gain some experience before you set out on your own.

How do you protect yourself when hiking alone?

The best way to protect yourself while hiking alone is by knowing what to expect and by being prepared. Always research the trail before you hike and know your own skill level. Do not tackle trails that are too difficult or super remote if you are solo hiking. And of course, you should also bring something you can use to protect yourself against animals or others that could endanger your life and well-being.

Can a woman hike alone?

Yes, a woman can hike alone. As always, there are more things to keep in mind, so it does not hurt if you bring pepper spray and know some basic self-defense. Aside from that, solo hiking for women is no different than for men.

What should I bring on a solo hike?

What you should bring on a solo hike partially depends on where and when you will be hiking, and of course, also how long the hike will be.

However, you should bring the following items: suitable hiking boots or shoes, a first aid kit, a means of navigation, a sufficient amount of water, some snacks, and something to keep you warm.

Additionally, it is a good idea to have a GPS that allows you to send messages in an emergency situation.

Planning a trip?

Check out these useful websites and resources I use to plan my own adventures.

Roundup: The Best Solo Hiking Tips

It is great to hike alone, but it is also a challenge, as you are the sole person responsible for your safety and well-being. The mere idea alone can be daunting. And yet, the freedom it grants you is worth it.

It is a hobby that comes with a certain risks, so it is crucial to abide the safety rules and tips when planning to hike alone. No adventure, no matter how great it might be, is worth your life. So do your research and be prepared for the trail you are tackling. That way, you will also be able to enjoy the hike itself much more, as you will not be struggling due to being unprepared.

At the end of the day, all that matters is that you are safe while out on the trail and have a great time. Hopefully, this list of solo hiking tips will contribute to that.

More about Hiking

If you love hiking, you might also be interested in these hikes:

Preikestolen Hike Roque Nublo Hike

Do you have any other solo hiking tips?

Let me know in the comments down below!

Do you like solo hiking? Pin these solo hiking tips !

about Steph

I am the founder of A Nomad's Passport and a semi-nomadic photographer and writer. Originally from Germany, I have lived in several countries including Australia, Mexico, and Malta.

As an outdoor lover and culture enthusiast, I love writing about all forms of adventure travel ranging from outdoor activities like scuba diving and hiking to cultural experiences, alongside road trips and itineraries that combine these elements.

A Nomad's Passport is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

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The 10 Best Solo Hikes in North America

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Some solo trekkers seek a sense of meditative quietness; others are after the confidence boost that comes from self-reliance. In any case, hiking solo on these safe and tranquil trails throughout North America provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of today's fast-paced, plugged-in world.

The biggest drawback of traveling by oneself is the risk of requiring help—be it medical, navigational, or whatever—when no one's around. Proper planning, knowledge of the trail and its conditions, and general preparations can limit that danger.

Here are 10 trails in the U.S. and Canada whose mild conditions, quietness, and difficulty levels make them ideal for solo hiking.

Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia)

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Cape Breton Highlands National Park, on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, is known for its craggy coastal highlands accessible via the 185-mile Cabot Trail. Technically, a roadway rather than a hiking trail, "the Cabot" is ideal for solo hiking because it provides access to dozens of other scenic paths joined by a heavily trafficked roadway dotted with resource-heavy villages. Hikers can park at the trailhead for the Skyline Trail and walk along the highland path for three hours, for example, then return to their cars to tackle another—say, the 2.5-mile trip up nearby Roberts Mountain.

Cabot visitors can also opt for casual beach walks or short highland loops. The trails offer diverse scenery of old-growth forests and ocean vistas and varying difficulty levels. The drive itself takes five hours and is best tackled from July through September. The fall Hike the Highlands Festival occurs every September.

Highline Trail (Montana)

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The Highline Trail passes along the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park, Montana. It's quite popular (i.e., well-trafficked) due to its location and breathtaking mountain scenery. The entire trail is 37 miles long, but there is a shorter, popular loop that is approximately 11 miles. The trail does have narrow and precarious points, but it has good infrastructure: You can take a shuttle bus to various entry points or follow alternative trails that connect with the Highline for more solitude.

Hikers may actually need a passport if they plan to make the entire trek to Goat Haunt Ranger Station, which is right on the U.S.-Canada border. Those with a valid document will be allowed an end-of-trail bonus, the chance to take a boat tour on Waterton Lake. The Highline Loop is quite accessible, and while the complete Highline Trail is a challenge, it offers serenity and stunning scenery for experienced hikers.

Superior Hiking Trail (Minnesota)

The Superior Hiking Trail starts at the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and runs more than 300 miles along the shoreline of Lake Superior in northern Minnesota. Backcountry campsites are free to use and placed at intervals along the trail, but solo hikers who feel unsafe camping alone can access the trail for day hikes at various points along the lakeside highway.

In addition to great views of the largest Great Lake, the trail passes mountains, spruce and pine forests, rivers, and waterfalls. For most of the journey, the trail follows ridgelines above the lake. It can be heavily trafficked in state parks and other touristy areas and not so on other, more remote sections. It's difficult to get lost, though, because you can always travel downhill to the coast and highway.

Timberline Trail (Oregon)

This 36-mile trail is definitely not for novice solo hikers, as it includes snowfields, stream crossings, and steep changes in elevation. However, a number of campgrounds, each with reliable water sources, are spaced relatively regularly along the route, and the Timberline Lodge offers a comfortable pit stop or starting point, so you'll scarcely be far from other people.

This trail dates back to the Great Depression, when it was constructed by workers of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Because of the high elevations, trail users are rewarded with views not only of the famed Pacific Northwest stratovolcano Mount Hood but also of Portland, the Willamette and Columbia rivers, Mount Rainier, and Mount Saint Helens. It's best to hike the Timberline trail in the summer because the snow at other times of the year poses an additional challenge.

Turtlehead Peak Trail (Nevada)

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The Turtlehead Peak Trail in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a moderately trafficked path with a great location less than 20 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. This five-mile out-and-back path reaches the top of its namesake peak, which offers sprawling views of Nevada’s Mojave Desert . The trail is much less remote than it actually feels, and—despite the harsh, hot environment and strenuous elevation changes—it's a great option for solo hikers who want a desert experience without traveling too far or putting themselves in danger.

Turtlehead hikers get to see a variety of desert scenery, including wildflowers and the rock formations of Red Rock Canyon. They'll also see Sandstone Quarry, Las Vegas, and a series of petroglyphs. It's just a portion of the 30 miles of Red Rock hiking trails, all best explored in spring or fall, when the temperatures are mild.

Primitive Trail (Utah)

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Utah’s Arches National Park is ideal for solo hikers because it's packed with short-ish hikes that range from busy to scarcely traveled. Even the more challenging hikes can be completed in just a few hours. One of the best is the seven-mile Primitive Trail, which passes more than half a dozen sandstone arches as well as the famous 125-foot Dark Angel spire. This trail connects with the Devils Garden trail. Together, they form the longest-maintained hiking route in the park.

The Primitive Trail is challenging because it's poorly marked and requires hikers to carry a lot of water. As with any desert hike, it's best to take on this one in the spring, fall, or early in the morning. Getting lost becomes life-threatening in extreme heat and after you've exhausted your water supply. Solo hikers who want to challenge themselves in a safer way can do so by joining a ranger-led hike in the backcountry.

North Ridge Trail (Maine)

Solo hikers who want some solitude won’t find it on Acadia National Park's most popular trails but rather on the more remote paths that are mostly ignored by the masses. Cadillac Mountain has a short, paved loop trail near its summit, but take the moderately difficult four-mile North Ridge Trail or challenging seven-mile ascent up South Ridge Trail to its peak for a quiet hike away from the crowds.

You may have to work to find solitude in Acadia, but the high traffic and relatively short routes mean that help is never far away if a solo hiker should need it.

Springer Mountain (Georgia)

Avid hikers have soloed the Appalachian Trail in full, but most trekking enthusiasts can’t take six months off work to tackle the 2,200-mile path. Solo hikers can, however, walk part of the AT. The famous trail starts near this Georgia peak, at the same starting point of another, lesser-known and less-crowded path, the Benton MacKaye Trail.

Trekkers in the Southeast can take on the beginning part of the AT on a nine-mile hike from the trailhead to the summit of Springer Mountain and back. Benton MacKaye Trail offers a journey of a similar length in the Springer Mountain area. It is also possible to loop around using one trail for the outbound trip and the other for the return.

Trans-Catalina Trail (California)

Santa Catalina Island, a 90-minute ferry ride from the Los Angeles metro area, is home to the 38-mile Trans-Catalina Trail. Thru-hikers can use campgrounds along the trail, but changes in elevation, wildlife (including rattlesnakes), and unpredictable weather mean solo trekkers need to be both experienced and fit to take on the whole route. Because there are campgrounds, it's possible to do an out-and-back overnight hike on a portion of the trail.

The island has basic services, and the trail is well-kept by the Catalina Island Conservancy. Solo hikers are likely to encounter members of the island’s resident bison herd as well as foxes and eagles on this trek.

Waimea Canyon (Hawaii)

Kauai is one of Hawaii’s least crowded and most natural islands. It's relatively safe, and since it’s a compact island, the chances of getting hopelessly lost are slim. The famous Kalalau Trail that runs along the Nāpali Coast is challenging and often quite precarious, making it especially risky for solo hikers. A safer option is the Waimea Canyon Trail, in Waimea Canyon State Park, which runs a similar distance of 11.5 miles (one way) from the bottom of the canyon to the laidback coastal town of Waimea.

The trail spoils hikers with views of the steep red cliffs dotted with lush Hawaii foliage. There are campgrounds along the way, but those who don't want to make it a multi-day excursion can do a shorter day hike to the Waipo'o waterfall, 3.6 miles in. This path is reasonably popular, so even if you hike solo, there will be other people around to lend a hand if needed.

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The 10 Most Gorgeous Solo Hikes

Because sometimes, you just want to get away from it all..

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Heading out on an adventure and knowing that you are solely in control of where you camp, when you stop, and what you eat can be a thrilling feeling. “Solitude is so rare in this day and age that it can be really powerful if you seek it out purposefully,” says Amy Rathke, Environmental Stewardship Coordinator for the National Outdoor Leadership School. “Gear preferences, food preferences—ultimately, the trip is yours. If you want to sit by an alpine lake and sit in the sun and read your book in the middle of the day, you don’t have to answer to anyone else. ” These ten perfect hikes, from a few miles to a few weeks long, are waiting for you.

Lost Lake Trail, Seward, Alaska

If you’re new to solo backpacking, opt for a one- or two-night stay at Lost Lake. The 14-mile roundtrip hike starts in a spruce forest that opens up into lush meadows, followed by hemlock groves and mountain views. There are off-trail hiking opportunities if you feel like exploring further, but use common sense: there may be no other hikers for miles, and snow can linger until July. [image: Frank Kovalchek / Flickr]

John Muir Trail

Said to be the finest mountain scenery in the US, this 211-mile trail should definitely be on your bucket list. It runs mostly in conjunction with the Pacific Crest Trail, and often has mild, sunny weather. You will need a wilderness permit, but it’s worth it to venture through Yosemite, John Muir Wilderness, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park. [image: Rick McCharles / Flickr]

Fall Canyon, Death Valley, California

Teton crest trail, grand teton national park, wyoming.

If you are ready for a longer solo adventure, the 37-mile, six-day Teton Crest Trail is one of Rathke’s favorites. It’s one of the park’s signature hikes and delivers alpine lakes, views of the famous craggy summits, and a trip over Hurricane Pass where you can see all three Tetons in perfection. This is a moderate backpacking trip, but can easily be done solo—park at the Leigh Lake Trailhead and take the tram to start at the Granite Canyon trailhead. [image: Jeff Gunn / Flickr]

Timberline Trail, Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon

For a multi-day solo backpacking trip, take the 36-mile trek around Mt. Hood. You start and end at Timberline Lodge trailhead, and do need a permit in the summer, though they are free. This is a more strenuous hike that will test your limits, but you’ll get a good variety of solo hiking as well as some populated areas and campsites, if you’re in need of some emergency socialization. [image: Jesus Corrius / Flickr]

Lake Katherine, Pecos Wilderness, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Wilcox pass, jasper national park, alberta, canada.

On some hikes, you just want to take in the beauty without being rushed by co-hikers. Wilcox Pass provides views of the Columbia icefields along with the Athabasca glacier, and the glaciated Mount Andromeda, Snow Dome, and Mount Kitchener. Take your time viewing the glaciers, then continue to the open meadows to spy bighorn sheep. [image: Brendan Bell / Flickr]

Delicate Arch, Arches National Park, Moab, Utah

Not only are all of the hikes in this area highly recommended, the small-town of Moab is friendly and welcome to all adventurers. Canyonlands National Park is nearby, but Arches is easier to navigate with better marked trails. Both are popular with hikers and mountain bikers, but you can still easily get away to appreciate the solitude. The Delicate Arch hike is only 3 miles roundtrip, but can take about two to three hours. There is no shade, so make sure you pack plenty of water and sunscreen. [image: Ronnie McDonald / Flickr]

Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia, Canada

The 185-mile Cabot Trail covers the northern tip of Cape Breton Island, consistently rated one of the top destinations in North America. With more than 25 trails to explore, you can easily do a variety of hikes and spot plenty of wildlife, too. [image: Andrea Schaffer / Flickr]

Springer Mountain to Three Forks, Appalachian Trail, Ellijay, Georgia

How to safely hike alone.

A solo hike can also lead you into dangerous situations, so prepare for the worst. “The top thing when you are considering any trip, but especially when you are going out alone, is to have good first aid training because you are going to be handling any emergency situations by yourself,” says Rathke. Along with first aid, know the area that you are going to. Are there grizzlies? What’s the weather supposed to be like? Have a solid understanding of the place before you embark, Rathke says. Unfortunately, there’s a human factor, too. Rathke warns to be wary of any fellow hikers that are simply creeping you out. If your gut is telling to you to be cautious of someone, play it safe and pitch your tent among other campers or hike alongside new friends.

Before you head out, leave a detailed trip plan of where you are going, and when you will be back. “I like to set a freak out time,” Rathke says, “so if whatever that time is approaches, and whoever you left your plan with haven’t heard from you, they know specially what to do at that point, whether it is to contact search and rescue or drive to the trailhead and retrace your steps.”

Sometimes, getting over the mental hump of being alone for days at a time is a challenge of itself. Rathke recommends bringing a book or an iPod and savoring the uninterrupted hours to read or listen to music. You might also consider taking a few items you might normally take on a group hike, like a GPS device for any challenging situations.

Once you’ve taken appropriate precautions, the benefits of solitude and ultimate freedom will become apparent. In the end, you might like the alone time or you might not, but it’s well worth a try. “To realize that you can execute an adventure like that from start to finish on your own, can be its own reward,” Rathke says.

Click through the slideshow above to see our top picks for solo hikes, from day trips to multi-day backpacking journeys.

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13 Powerful Solo Hiking Tips For Women For A Safe & Enjoyable Trek

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

By Jessie Festa. This guide to hiking alone as a woman contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for solo hiking tips ?

Then you’re in the right place!

For many women (and men), the thought of hiking alone can be terrifying.

In fact, many of us have probably been in the position where we have a trail we really want to do, but have nobody to go with, so we simply choose to stay home instead.

I know I’ve been there.

But, after embarking on a number of solo female hiking trips around the world, I’ve become much more confident. Not only that, but I’ve picked up a number of helpful tips for solo hiking — which I’ll be sharing with you below.

My goal: to help you safely and confidently hit the trails, even when you’re sans partner.

Pro tip: Before going hiking, make sure to download the AllTrails app to have trail guides, maps, photos, and reviews right at your fingertips. You can also sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+ to download offline maps, get alerts for wrong turns, find trails by distance from you, and more!

Table of Contents

What Type Of Hiker Are You? [Personality Quiz]

Now before we dive into our list of hiking alone tips , I want to share a free personality quiz I think you’ll love!

Discover your hiking persona in this fun and short  hiker personality quiz , which also shares trail suggestions based on your results.

Once you’ve grabbed the quiz, keep reading for an in-depth solo female travel guide for hikers.

The Benefits Of Hiking Alone

Let’s kick off this article on hiking by yourself by going over why you might actually want to embark on a solo hiking trip.

If you’ve ever wondered “Is it weird to hike alone?” the answer is not at all! In fact, ask any avid hiker and they’ll tell you they regularly see people hiking alone, as it has many advantages.

First of all, it allows us to get back in touch with our true selves.

Humans are animals with a connection to the natural world; however, due to incessant emails, Instagram notifications, and the typical hustle of daily modern life, we have lost many of our natural instincts.

But, spending time in nature — particularly alone when we can really take it all in and notice our surroundings — can help re-connect us, which is an incredible feeling.

It’s also the perfect time to do a little soul searching and intently listen to our thoughts without distraction.

If you’ve been having trouble making a decision or something has been weighing on you, a little alone time in nature can help bring clarity as you remove distractions.

Which brings me to the next solo hiking benefit: it’s easier to let go.

Let go of the stress. The notifications. The hustle. The to-do lists. The obligations.

Then take a deep breath, inhale the sweet pine and fragrant wildflowers, and hike on.

By the end of the trail, you’ll already be reaping personal benefits as you become a more strong, independent, and confident person — which are actually all general benefits of solo travel , too!

Finally, you can enjoy total control over how you spend your time. If you want to explore the many amazing hiking trails this world has to offer , you can do so when and where it’s convenient for you.

Solo Hiking Tips For Women

Okay, so now that we’ve gone over a few solo hiking benefits, let’s dive into some important pieces of advice when it comes to solo hiking for women .

In my personal opinion, solo hiking is often about striking a balance between having an adventure and feeling comfortable with your trail choice.

As with most things in life, there are risks involved; however, when it comes to how to hike alone, having some proven strategies under your belt can help instill confidence while allowing for a safer experience.

In fact, if you’ve ever asked “Is it safe to hike alone?” the following tips will help you see that it truly can be, as long as you plan and prepare.

1. Be honest about your own hiking abilities

It may be tempting to set off on a crazy high altitude hike or a technical trek offering a stunning view, but by choosing treks that are beyond your ability level, you put yourself in danger — especially when hiking solo.

Now, if it’s a fitness issue, you can work your way up to steeper and more physically demanding trails with practice.

However, when it comes to technical trails that involve things like rock climbing and river crossings, you may want to leave these for when you have someone to go with.

Keep in mind, a hiking trail doesn’t need to be advanced for it to be too technical. It all comes back to your own ability level and comfort. There is absolutely no shame in deciding to forgo a trail until you have someone to hike with.

For instance, I know plenty of women who have successfully completed hiking the Appalachian Trail alone — which is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world at 2,190 miles; however, these ladies were very experienced hikers who felt confident embarking on this active adventure .

2. Consider a popular hiking trail

When it comes to gaining confidence as a solo hiker, this is one of the best hiking tips on the list.

Many of the fears people have about hiking solo and the threats they may encounter are completely wiped away on a trail with high-to-moderate foot traffic.

Nervous about wildlife encounters? Popular trails are noisier, which tends to scare away bears and other large animals.

Worried you’ll have an injury and won’t be able to get help? On popular trails, other hikers will come to your aid relatively quickly.

Scared you’ll get lost? You’ll be able to follow the crowd on more popular trails.

Quite honestly, some of my favorite hikes have been on more populated trails. In fact, hiking Mount Marcy — which takes you up New York’s highest mountain — offers true 360-degree views of the Adirondack Mountains. As it’s one of the best hikes in Upstate New York , it’s also well-trafficked.

3. Stay on designated trails

Adding on to the last solo hiking tip, it’s important to stay on marked trails for a few reasons.

In terms of solo hiking safety , sticking to designated trails makes it less likely you’ll get lost.

Moreover, it’s important for conservation reasons, as going off-trail can damage local eco-system and hurt or kill plant and animal species. Staying on the trail is a vital part of being a more responsible hiker .

4. Know the potential threats before hiking solo

Just as not all trails award the same views, they also don’t all have the same potential threats. A few things to consider:

• What animals might you encounter?
• What are the trail conditions at the time you’ll be hiking?
• Are there any technical sections?
• Are trails well-marked or is there a high potential of getting lost?
• Is the trail prone to rapid weather changes?
• Have there been reports of crime or shady people on the trail? (I hate to mention this, but it is sadly something to be mindful of and I would personally avoid these trails completely)

Once you know the answers, you’ll want to do some research on how to best prepare.

For instance, if there are bears along the trail, consider packing bear spray and having a strategy to make noise along the way. Many solo hikers will actually wear bells to do this.

While typically these questions simply lead to additional preparation, also be prepared to nix a trail if it will truly be unsafe to hike solo.

For example, if a trail is very technical or has lots of steep falls and uneven terrain it may be best to wait until you have a hiking buddy.

5. Let loved ones know where you’ll be solo hiking

Whether you’re hiking solo, traveling solo , or really doing anything on your own, it’s a smart idea to let loved ones know your plan. It’s also one of the most crucial safe hiking tips you can implement.

While this may sometimes feel like a slice of your independence gets taken away when you’re constantly needing to check in, it can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong.

Keep in mind, too, that you can set boundaries with your check-ins.

I know my family would love if I texted every hour when I’m traveling solo, but realistically that is not possible. I do, however, send a text once per day letting them know my plans and then again once I return back to my hotel. Additionally, I let my them know if I’ll be off the grid without service.

6. Bring a hiking map

Just because a trail has a designated name or seems like it will be well-marked doesn’t necessarily mean it’s impossible to get lost.

I also find that when I’m alone and need to navigate a trail 100% myself, I tend to second-guess my intuition.

Yes, your intuition can be a great guide, but when hiking — and especially when hiking alone — a map is a safer bet.

It’s nice to have a paper map in case your phone dies, though I do still always like to pre-plot my trail on a Google Map.

Another handy tool is the AllTrails App . The app has a number of features to help you to safely plan your next hike. Especially when hiking solo, it’s recommended to opt for the paid version, AllTrails+ , for access to offline trail maps as well as alerts when you’ve missed a turn.

7. Download hiking safety apps

Speaking of apps, there are a number of personal safety apps worth downloading before your next solo hiking trip.

One of my favorites is the Cairn App , which automatically helps you implement a number of the safety tips for hiking alone listed in this guide — and more. A few of the app’s features include:

• Downloadable offline hiking maps
• Calculating your estimated time of arrival based on your speed, trail distance, and elevation change
• Automatically alerting loved ones when you’re not back from a hike in time while also sharing your intended destination and return time
• The ability to share real-time location tracking with loved ones
• Crowdsourced cell-service tracking (so you know where there is coverage on a specific trail)

Another great solo hiking safety app is the Emergency App from the Red Cross, which shares emergency alerts and preparation advice for 35 different severe weather and emergency situations.

8. Pack solo safety hiking essentials

Along with apps, there are a number of solo hiking essentials to pack for hiking alone safety. A few of these include:

Personal safety alarm. Like this one . When it comes to these pocket-sized alarms, you’ll simply pull a cord or press a button to have it blare louder than a fire truck. This can scare off potential attackers and wild animals, and is one of my personal favorite travel safety essentials in general.

Personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger. Like the popular Garmin inReach Mini . Having one of these is key if you’ll be solo hiking in a remote area, as both of these tools can help you send SOS messages when in danger. Just make sure to check the coverage map for the device(s) you’re considering to make sure your specific trail is covered. You can check this guide for additional help with choosing a PLB or satellite messenger.

Flash light or headlamp. Like these . Even if you plan to be back before dark, it’s best to be prepared in case you find yourself on the trail after sunset. Note that using your iPhone flashlight is not wise as it’s not rugged and the battery can easily die. Having a powerful backup light source is vital in this situation.

Keep in mind, if you’ll be hiking alone for multiple days or heading out on a remote trail, you’ll want even more solo hiking gear . For instance, packing an SOL Emergency Bivy is one of smartest hiking tricks and tips for overnight treks. This life-saving hiking accessory packs down small and can act as an emergency blanket or sleeping bag. It’s waterproof and windproof, and its bright orange color makes it easy to spot — even in bad weather.

9. Plan for health while hiking alone

Of course, when it comes to solo hiking gear you’ll also want to consider how to stay healthy. This involves packing a first aid kit, sunscreen, any necessary medications, and plenty of food and water.

The importance of hydration cannot be stressed enough. Not only can dehydration lead to life-threatening consequences, but it can make it impossible to continue on once your body has reached the point of no return.

The thing is, it’s not enough to simply drink when you feel thirsty. Instead, here is a general plan of action:

• Pack about one half-liter of water per hour (for easy-to-moderate hikes in moderate temperatures)
• Take small sips about every 20 minutes

If you’ll be going on a long-distance hike with natural water sources along the way, consider a reusable water bottle with built-in filtration system ( like these ).

Keep in mind that trail distance, hike distance, and weather conditions all factor into how much water you should be drinking. Check out this guide for more in-depth tips for staying hydrated on a solo hike.

10. Know what to wear when solo hiking

Staying safe also means staying dry and temperate, so wearing the proper hiking attire is essential.

Of course, if you’re hiking on a short flat and paved trail, your clothing choices will require less thinking; however, if you’re embarking on a moderate or advanced trail, a few important pieces of hiking clothing include:

Comfortable yet sturdy hiking shoes. While the exact shoes you should wear for your solo hike will depend on the trail terrain, there should be treading on the bottom to keep you from slipping. Also, consider if it makes sense to opt for something with solid ankle support, like a mid- or high-cut boot.

Layers. While the exact layers will, again, depend on the trail you choose, at the very least you’ll want two layers — more if you’ll be encountering cold conditions.

Important: your base layers and socks should always be moisture-wicking to help keep you dry and temperate — and to ward off hypothermia! This is true in all weather conditions.

Keep in mind, too, that even if it’s warm at the start of your hike, summits can be much chillier. Moreover, having a lightweight over-shirt with built-in sun protection can keep you from getting sunburned.

Sun-protecting accessories. Sunglasses and hats — particularly those that also cover the nape of your neck — are important trail essentials.

Here is an in-depth guide on what to wear when you go hiking .

11. Keep track of time and check progress frequently

For the safest solo hiking experience, you’ll want to stick with daylight hours. The thing is, while enjoying the beauty of nature it’s easy to lose track of time and find yourself racing back to the trailhead trying to beat the setting sun.

This has happened to me on more than one occasion and, trust me, it’s scary.

One time, it was getting dark and I didn’t realize I’d actually veered off my intended trail, which also added the challenge of needing to re-route myself in record time. Luckily, my intuition led me back toward the correct path, but I would not recommend letting this alone be your guide.

Reminder that maps are your friend whether hiking alone or in a group.

To help ensure you never end up in this sticky situation, it’s wise to research how long your trail is and allot more than enough time to hike it in the daylight. Additionally, set a turnaround time that you’ll stick to regardless of how close to the end you are.

Again, allow yourself extra time. Inevitably, you’ll stop to enjoy a view, have a snack, or snap some photos. Or you might get turned around and will need time-padding to reroute yourself.

12. Take photos as you hike

This is one of those hiking safe tips that has saved my butt many times!

If you’ve read the story of Hansel and Gretel , you may remember they leave a trail of breadcrumbs to guide them back out of the forest. Well, taking photos acts as these breadcrumbs, as you’ll be able to refer to your snapshots if you get lost to help you find your way back.

This piece of advice is especially important at turns and forks in the trail.

For instance, when hiking the Big Trees Trail to the Lost Horse Mine Trail in Joshua Tree , part of the trail was washed out. I continued on anyway and, not surprisingly, I got lost — though luckily I’d been taking photos along the way.

In photos taken before I got turned around, I noticed a discarded pot on the side of the trail, so when I found this pot again I knew I was back where I had been before.

13. Do a walking meditation to maximize solo hiking benefits

Of course, having your camera out the entire time defeats the purpose of this tip, so I recommend doing your walking meditation during a section of the trail that is straight and well-marked so you can put away your camera.

As stated above, one of the biggest benefits of hiking solo is getting back in touch with nature and yourself, and a walking meditation — which combines the physical experience of walking with the focused mindfulness of meditation — is a great way to do this.

According to Jon Kabat-Zinn , a world-renowned meditation teacher and the founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, there are a number of key benefits to doing a walking meditation, including:

• Improves awareness
• Improves sleep quality
• Offers mental clarity
• Facilitates mind-body connection

Okay, so how do you reap all of these incredible benefits while on your solo hike?

Start by walking slowly with rhythmic steps and breathing. While walking, take notice of everything going on in and around you. What do you see? What visual and sensory details do you notice? How do you feel?

As with all meditations, try to stay in the moment. If your mind wanders, bring it back to the present, immersing yourself in the scents, sounds, sights, and sensations right there on the trail.

This may take some practice, but it’s a wonderful way to maximize the benefits of hiking solo.

Solo Hiking Trips & Groups

Now, after reading these solo hiking tips and tricks, you may still be thinking that going completely alone isn’t for you; which is totally fine, as again, the most important thing here is for you to feel comfortable and safe.

If this is the case for you, I’d recommend linking up with a local hiking group or booking a trip through companies and platforms like:

• Meetup.com – Join local hiking groups and attend hiking meetups. Don’t see one you’re interested in? Start one yourself!
• CouchSurfing – I’ve met up with many CouchSurfers while traveling to go hiking.
• REI – They offer guided day hikes and multi-day guides around North America .
• Facebook Groups – Join a local hiking group to connect with others looking to hit the trails.
• Hire a hiking guide – You can use a platform like ToursByLocals or WithLocals to hire a local guide to hike with you.
• Solo hiking vacations – There are tour operators like WHOA Travel and Wildland Trekking that offer small-group hiking trips where you can join on as a solo traveler.

What is great about these types of outings is you can choose to be social or keep to yourself for more of a solo hiking trip (that still includes the safety net of a group).

Solo Hiking Quotes

Before ending this guide, I’d like to share a few of my favorite quotes to help inspire your next solo hiking trip:

“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” – Sir Edmund Hillary

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir

“Traveling alone was like laundry for my thoughts.” – Mark Foster

“Hiking is not escapism; it’s realism. The people who choose to spend time outdoors are not running away from anything; we are returning to where we belong.” – Jennifer Pharr Davis

“It had nothing to do with gear or footwear or the backpacking fads or philosophies of any particular era or even with getting from point A to point B. It had to do with how it felt to be in the wild. With what it was like to walk for miles with no reason other than to witness the accumulation of trees and meadows, mountains and deserts, streams and rocks, rivers and grasses, sunrises and sunsets. The experience was powerful and fundamental. It seemed to me that it had always felt like this to be a human in the wild, and as long as the wild existed it would always feel this way.” – Cheryl Strayed

And of course, if you’re looking for an inspiring book by a solo female hiker, Cheryl Strayed’s Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail is a must-read!

Final Notes On Solo Female Hiking

There are many pros and cons of solo travel — and of solo hiking.

Hiking alone can be an empowering experience that really opens up the world for you. It can help you reconnect with nature, grow your self-confidence, and conquer your hiking bucket list as you no longer need to wait for a partner.

That being said, it isn’t for everyone.

If you find that even after implementing the above tips you still feel uncomfortable hiking solo, consider joining a local Meetup group for hikers or booking a hiking trip instead. These experiences can really offer the best of both worlds, and also mean you never have to miss out on a trail you want to experience!

What solo hiking tips would you add to this list?

Enjoyed these solo safety hiking tips ? Pin the guide for later!

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About Jessie Festa

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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10 Tips & Hacks for Solo Road Trip & Hiking Adventures

July 18, 2021

10 Essential Tips to survive a long solo road trip and hiking adventures. You can download a FREE road trip checklist here.

1) Ahead of your Trip, Check Car Condition: Repair and Maintenance

A couple days before your long road trip, inspect your car to make sure everything is is in good order and well maintained. Check: oil, tire pressure, including your spare tire, assuming you are driving rather than taking public transportation. Pro Trip: Fill up gas the night before the trip.

2) Start Early

How early? Ideally right after sunrise! My hope is that you don’t get lost but just in case you do, you would have enough daylight to find your way back. Or at least see someone who might assist for directions. Another reason to start early is to beat the crowd and enjoy some solitude.

3) Pack lots of food

And I mean LOTS of food. You’ll be surprised how much food you will eat during long hikes or road trips. To be cost effective and avoid stopping to buy groceries at a store, which is often junk food, I prepare all my food and snacks at home. If you are curious, here is my list and of course it changes depending on how long the hike is!

At least 2-4 hardboiled eggs

A peanut butter and jelly sandwich

And lots of fruit! Depending on what’s in season, I bring several oranges, peaches, plums, avocado, grapes and sometimes I will precut a watermelon for the road. Pretty much any kind of fruit. 

4) Bring Lots of Water

Not just an 8oz bottle. Nah, you’ll probably need much more than that. I bring 2L of water (more than 2 quarts) with me on a hike and I also have about 5L in my car just in case. You always want to have a backup plan!

Check out my blog post on THINGS TO DO BEFORE A ROAD TRIP OR HIKING ADVENTURE.

5) Tell Someone Where You Are Going / Share The Plan with a Friend

For safety’s sake, tell someone where you are going. Have a plan and stick to it. Of course, plans might change because you discover other things you want to explore on a long hike or road trip. But at a minimum, I highly suggest having a game plan, including the location of the hike, name of the trail, estimated start time and finish time. After you’ve taken several hikes, you’ll get to know your average speed and how long it takes to complete a certain distance. Of course, elevation is a factor. What I like to do is, have a two-hour allowance time for exploration and driving from the trailhead to a place where there is phone reception. Remember safety is key when on a solo road trip.

So, let’s say I am going to start a hike at 7am and I estimate I will be done by 2pm. 4pm is when I tell my family if they don’t hear from me, they should be concerned.

6) Bring a Map or a Printed Description of Your Hike

Even if you don’t currently know how to read a map, don’t let that stop you from hiking. Eventually, it will start to make sense. Even though I’ve been hiking a long time, I often still struggle with directions. Having a map helps, sometimes you just need to see the layout to be well oriented with an area or to know what to expect.

7) Bring Bug Repellant Spray & Bring Sun Block

Bugs and mosquitos can ruin your hiking experience if you are not prepared. You are better off bringing a bug spray and not use it than need it and not have it. You will likely be exposed to the sun for a long time so make sure you apply and reapply sun block often to avoid sunburn.

8) Bring a Bandana

This can serve as a sweat towel or if you develop a running nose.

9) Bring Trekking Poles

These help with balance and support and can keep you from falling.

 10) Hiking Essentials (I’ve already mentioned several items here but please be sure you bring all 10 hiking essentials .)

Hiking Boots preferably waterproof are best, I use On Running boots .

Check out my solo road trip adventure from Seattle, Washington to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon .

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Solo Vacations: The 29 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Stephanie Granada is a writer and editor focusing on travel, beauty, home, and health. Her bylines have appeared in Sunset , Outside , Southern Living , Woman's Day , Brit + Co. , National Geographic Traveler , and others.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

 Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

dlewis33/E+/Getty Images

If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

Austin, Texas

The quickest way to bond with a stranger? Shared musical taste. Austin has plenty of opportunities to bump into fellow music lovers. Stay on or near South Congress Avenue, where trendy properties like the Hotel Magdalena provide the ideal base for visiting the street's iconic venues. Other ‘hoods you can easily get to include East Austin, booming with hipster bars and food trucks; South Lamar with its great shops; and Rainey Street, beloved among college students. Visit March through November to see the bats flying under the Ann W. Richards bridge — it's one of the best things to do in Austin , as is indulging in the city's incredible food.

Islamorada, Florida

Of all the towns in the Florida Keys , Islamorada has the homiest feel. Locals are happy to regale you with tales of family squabbles and fishing exploits at any of the seaside watering holes. For an elevated dining experience, snag a barstool at Chef Michael’s and order the whole lionfish. It's a big but manageable dish, made from an invasive species that Floridians pride themselves on removing from local waters and serving as a tasty dinner instead. When you're done, rest your head at one of the cozy cottages at Moorings Village.

Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky is known for its hospitality and Louisville for its bourbon , meaning solo travelers can find good friends and good drinks while exploring this Southern city. NuLu is the most happening neighborhood, but Old Louisville is the place to hunker down if you’re a sucker for history and architecture. Downtown offers new hotels and inventive restaurants, while Butchertown and Germantown pair up-and-coming bars and businesses with impressive vintage architecture.

Marfa, Texas

Artists in search of a solitary life have been drawn to Marfa for decades. Today, the population hovers just under 2,000, but there’s enough art, food, and quirk for a city many times that size. El Cosmico offers outstanding glamping and communal spaces, while art houses like the Chinati Foundation keep visitors entertained. Though it's more than three hours from the closest airport, this flatland village offers progressive galleries, mystifying desert skies, and a sparse beauty that makes it one of the best small towns in Texas .

New York, New York

New York City might be full of crowds, but it’s also a welcoming hub for parties of one. There are sleek hotels with bars that draw worldly travelers and locals, some of the best art and shopping in the world, and more food and drink options than you can fit into a month-long trip. If you need help deciding what to do on your visit, take a look at our three-day weekend guide .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is one of the safest states in the country — and solo travelers wanting to enjoy that security will find a great home base in Portsmouth. This waterfront town is one of the state's most pedestrian-friendly communities, and with a colonial heritage that dates back to the 1600s, it's fantastic for history buffs. Portsmouth knows its food, as is perhaps best showcased in the dozen oyster farms active offshore in the Great Bay. Sample their best bivalves at The Franklin, an upscale seafood joint run by James Beard-nominated chef Matt Louis.

San Diego, California

San Diego combines the laid-back vibes of SoCal with the multicultural energy of a city located right on the Mexican border. From mild weather and great surfing to vibrant West Coast sunsets, it has lots to offer, making it a great place to spend a few days. Opportunities for hiking and watersports abound, while coastal areas like La Jolla and Del Mar offer a bevy of chic hotels where a solo traveler can catch some oceanside R&R.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Solo travelers in search of spiritual healing should look no further than Santa Fe . Book a night at Ten Thousand Waves, an upscale lodge inspired by Japanese hot spring resorts and decked out with secluded soaking tubs. Downtown, you’ll find historical landmarks, handmade tchotchkes, and restaurants serving delectable Southwestern food. Beyond the adobe architecture and unique attractions, the best thing you can do in Santa Fe is meet its colorful characters.

Washington, D.C.

Museums are best explored alone, and in Washington, D.C. , you have more than 20 to choose from—many of which are free. The District also has a hot food scene, and as a solo diner, you'll have the best shot at getting into the most highly coveted spots. To get far away from D.C.’s political crowds, head to a hip residential neighborhood like Shaw, where you can imbibe at Maxwell Park Wine Bar or catch a show at the Howard Theatre.

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The 18 best solo trips in the U.S.

Ready to venture out on your own? Our selection of the best solo trips in the U.S. are the perfect way to get started.

Solo travel is booming—for good reason. Sure, sharing experiences with friends, family, or your significant other is fun, but taking a trip alone is a whole other type of adventure. You can build confidence, take in moments without distraction, and, best of all,   get to do exactly what you want to do. No debates about where to eat or what to see, just you and your whims. Being solo also makes it easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger, be it a local or fellow traveler. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fulfilling solo sojourn.  Whether you’ve done this before or are looking to take your first trip alone, we've rounded up the best cities to visit as a party-of-one that will provide plenty of new experiences, whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie or beach lover. From the historic streets of Boston to the mountains of Colorado to the hills of San Francisco , here are some of the best solo trips to take in the US with plenty of itinerary suggestions to boot. 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best solo trips in the U.S.

1.  nashville, tn.

Let your love of music—and hearty Southern cooking—guide your trip through Nashville . For a toe-tapping good time, head to the Basement and possibly catch a 'secret' show from a national headliner in an intimate setting. Before the music, fill up with some finger-licking good Tennessee pork shoulder at Jack’s Bar-B-Cue , where you’ll make friends while waiting in long lines (trust us, it’s totally worth it) or test your limit for spicy food at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s . Celebrate a successful solo sojourn by ordering a cocktail at White Limozeen , the pink-hued, Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar atop the Graduate Nashville .

2.  Marfa, TX

Independent travelers with an artistic side need to visit Marfa, which has quickly become a top destination for artists looking for a productive retreat. Miles away from any other city and hours from the nearest airport, this teeny-tiny small town (population: less than 2,000) in the desert boasts large-scale art installations (including the Instagram-famous Prada Marfa one), the Chinati Foundation art museum, and a historic army fort . Unsurprisingly, there aren’t many hotels here; however, we recommend Hotel Saint George , a minimalist-inspired boutique hotel with a bustling lobby bar and stylish interiors.

3.  New York, NY

While being alone in a city as densely populated as the Big Apple might seem lonely, we guarantee it’ll feel quite freeing in no time. Get in a New York state of mind while heading to the city’s fabulous museums (including the MoMA , The Met , and the Whitney ), gorgeous public spaces and phenomenal performances on Broadway or at the Metropolitan Opera. Don’t forget to get a taste of the world-renowned Brooklyn food scene , and never fear going to a restaurant or bar to dine solo—in New York, that’s standard fare. Make SoHo your home base for exploring by staying at the design-centric Crosby Street Hotel , where guests and locals can mingle throughout the chic public spaces.

4.  Boulder, CO

Hiking boots are a must if you’re visiting Boulder. Skiers and snowboarders take over the city in the winter, and when the weather is good, visitors flock to Eldorado Canyon State Park , Flagstaff , Chautauqua Park , and the Flatirons . Stay in the heart of town at the historic Hotel Boulderado , which puts you within walking distance of the vibrant Pearl Street Mall . Along this four-block-long pedestrian-friendly hotspot, you’ll find a slew of shopping, drinking, and dining options .

5.  Portland, OR

Portland's laid-back vibes and numerous attractions make it ideal for a solo trip. Join fellow foodies as you sample your way through SE Division Street, including a savory breakfast at Pine State Biscuits and a creamy milkshake from Fifty Licks . Then, retreat to nature with a hike through Forest Park ; alternatively, stroll among thousands of flowers in the International Rose Test Garden . Looking to make new friends? Try hitting up a concert at local favorite Mississippi Studios or grab a beer at the city's many breweries. After an action-packed day, retreat to your room at The Nines , conveniently located downtown.

6.  Asheville, NC

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this dynamic North Carolina city is a favorite among artists and outdoor lovers alike. The tranquil waters of the French Broad River, located within the city limits, are perfect for a kayak trip, while the nearby mountains offer plenty of great hikes and look-out spots for photographers and nature enthusiasts. If you want a more refined experience, check out the palatial Biltmore Estate , America's largest privately owned house. You can even spend the night here: Three properties can be found within the 8,000-acre grounds. Beer enthusiasts will also love it here: Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other city in America.

7.  Boston, MA

While Boston might loom large in American history (it is the oldest city in New England, after all), you can walk the narrow winding streets and explore the relatively small center in a day. The nearly 400-year-old town is full of hidden treasures that can be discovered on a self-guided walking tour. Tired of trekking on foot? Try one of the trolley tours—the guides are top-notch, and you might just make some friends while aboard the bright vehicles. Also, history buffs will especially appreciate staying at The Liberty , a 19th-century-era jail-turned-luxury hotel.

8.  Bozeman, MT

Even when you're alone in Bozeman, you're never lonely. The city is beloved not just because it's the perfect home base for solo activities like hiking, skiing, and horseback riding but also because the scene in town boasts interesting museums, distilleries, breweries, and restaurants. When you've had your fill of Palisade Falls, the Gallatin Canyon, or Bridger Bowl , stroll around the laid-back town's historic brewery sector or dig into the heritage of this wild northern landscape at the Museum of the Rockies before heading back to your room at the upscale Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman .

9.  Chicago,IL

With top-notch museums and parks and a public transportation system that rivals any other across the country, Chicago is a winning bet for a vacationer still unsure about the pros of solo traveling. Indulge in some retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile (North Michigan Avenue) and visit an amazing spa for some much-needed R&R. Along the Magnificent Mile, you’ll also find a slew of splurge-worthy stays, including The Peninsula. In terms of entertainment, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Check out the city’s top comedy clubs , including The Second City and the Laugh Factory . Or, if it’s postcard-worthy views you’re after, make your way to one of the city’s many rooftop bars .

10.  Seattle, WA

Make sure to pack a comfy pair of shoes when visiting the city’s top attractions , including the Space Needle , Pike Place Market , Fremont , and Pioneer Square . Art lovers will also appreciate a stay at Hotel Max , followed by visits to Chihuly Garden & Glass , the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), and the Frye Art Museum . Before you skip town, grab a cup of the world-famous coffee from a local café (we recommend Elm Coffee Roasters ) and hop on one of the Puget Sound ferries to take in the scenic landscape, including the skyline, waterfront, and, in the hazy distance, Mount Rainer.

11.  San Francisco, CA

In a city that fully embraces free spirits, your desire to fly through local museums, restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods solo will see you fit right in. Tourist sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island , and hopping aboard one of San Francisco’s historic cable cars. Once you've checked those off your list, explore one of the city's charming neighborhoods, such as Hayes Valley, Noe Valley or Pacific Heights. Try the Proper Hotel, which features a swanky rooftop bar, for accommodations.

12.  Florida Keys, FL

If it’s sunny days, warm temperatures, and turquoise water you’re after, look no further than this laid-back locale. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the Keys, stopping at cafés and shops along the way. In the afternoons, head for the beach with a book and get ready to meet fellow travelers with a colorful cocktail in hand at the beachfront bars. If you want ultimate peace and seclusion, head straight to Little Palm Island , a private island resort about 30 minutes away from Little Torch Key via boat.

13.  Washington, D.C.

Visiting D.C . solo allows you to explore the entire city at your own pace. Many  museums are free and deserve an entire day of exploring—like the National Gallery of Art , the National Museum of African American History & Culture , and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History . In the evening, take in a transformative performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy a play with a side of history at Ford's Theatre , where President Lincoln was assassinated. Prefer to shop and eat your way through vacation? Make sure to visit Dupont Circle and Georgetown , where splurge-worthy stays–including the Four Seasons –abound.

14.  Austin, TX

Young-at-heart solo travelers will find Austin’s lively spirit infectious. The city attracts creative types, many of which regularly flock to local music venues. Visit the Continental Club for fun-filled nights, take a stand-up paddleboard tour of Lady Bird Lake , and stroll down South Congress Avenue , dotted with fantastic shopping. Of course, no trip to Austin is complete without some good ol’ Tex-Mex, and options abound, including Veracruz All Natural , Gabriela’s , and Matt's El Rancho . Once you’ve hit food coma status, head back to your room at the trendy LINE hotel and hop into bed.

15.  Philadelphia, PA

Whether you’re a history buff looking to delve into our nation’s past, you want to eat your way through vacation, or you simply need some time by yourself, Philadelphia is the place for you. Stay near Center City (you can’t go wrong at The Loews ) and the whole shebang will be easily accessible: Gorgeous Rittenhouse Square —and the surrounding shopping area—is a stroll away, as is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell . Art enthusiasts should visit the magnificent Barnes Foundation and the sprawling galleries at the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Foodies, on the other hand, will appreciate the city’s booming culinary scene , including top restaurants like Laser Wolf and Vernick Food and Drink—just be sure to save room for a cheesesteak or two.

16.  Detroit, MI

Formerly down-and-out Detroit has experienced quite the renaissance in recent years. Today, the city is a dynamic canvas for art, music, and thought. Hoof it around the Grand River Creative Corridor , the Dequindre Cut Greenway , and the so-called Guggenheim Ghetto to take in some incredible street art at your own pace, or head to landmarks of Tha D's Motown heritage like the Motown Museum and the homes of hitmakers Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin. When you've worked up an appetite, follow your nose for some Detroit-style pizza at Loui's or Polish dumplings at Pietrzyk Pierogi . Finally, rest your head at the chic, centrally located Detroit Foundation Hotel , so you’re never too far from all the action.

17.  San Diego, CA

San Diego is all about the beach, surf, and California burritos. The 1,200-acre Balboa Park deserves a full day (or two) of your attention. Here, you’ll find gardens, hiking trails, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo . After a day of museum hopping and wildlife spotting, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, make your way over to the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood and take your pick of eclectic eats, including American Junkie for pub grub, the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse for top-notch chops, Asti Ristorante for Italian fare, and Bang Bang for fresh sushi. Stay close to all the action (or, in this case, incredible eats) by booking a room at the Andaz San Diego .

18.  Phoenix, AZ

Excellent eats, stunning desert surroundings, and gorgeous sunny weather: Expect all this and more in Phoenix. While visiting Arizona’s capital city, take advantage of the plentiful hiking opps, including Papago Park, Camelback Mountain  and Phoenix Mountains Preserve . Later, bar-hop your way through downtown Phoenix ( Khla , Barcoa Agaveria  and Baby Boy are a few of our favorites). Finally, catch up on some R&R at the tranquil Royal Palms Resorts & Spa , where you can lounge by the pool, people-watch in lush courtyards, hit the spa, and take cocktail-making classes—all while admiring beautiful flora and Camelback Mountain in the distance.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Things I’ve Learned Road Tripping Solo 

• Destinations
• Solo Travel
• Types of Travel

Many of the things that make road trips so great — the feeling of freedom, the focus on the countryside, the solitude — are magnified when you set out on a solo trip. For a brief interlude, it’s just you, your car, and the road. It’s wonderful, but it can be daunting too.

Looking back, I realize I’ve always had a soft spot for road trips, starting with a magical trip to the Oregon Coast in the family station wagon when I was 7 years old. I remember gazing up at giant redwoods, splashing in the ocean for the first time, and climbing massive sand dunes.

Since then, I’ve taken road trips to virtually every western-U.S. state, and to the Canadian Rockies and Mexico’s Sea of Cortez .

Up until recently, though, my road trips were somewhat sporadic and often taken with family or friends when flying wasn’t practical. That changed in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic severely limited travel options for me and everyone else. All of a sudden, the only reasonable way to travel seemed to be by car. For me, that meant solo road trips.

I’ve since taken road trips to every corner of my home state of Arizona , the California coast , Nevada’s Great Basin National Park , southern Utah’s many state parks and national monuments , New Mexico’s White Sands National Park , Texas’s Big Bend , and the Guadalupe Mountains national parks.

My trips have all been great adventures, but there have been a few lessons as well. Here are 9 things I’ve learned road tripping solo.

1. Pre-Planning Is A Must

Without navigational input from a fellow traveler, I’ve found that it’s imperative to identify my routes and study the details (the main highways, major turns, and interesting points) before I head out.

I usually start by searching point A to point B on my laptop computer, check out the two or three alternative routes, and then program my preferred route into my phone’s mapping app. I use the Apple Maps app, but many people prefer the Google Maps app.

Another obvious reason for having a set itinerary is safety. By letting someone know your route before you go, you have some backup in case you run into trouble along the way. It’s also wise to check in with those people when you arrive at your destination.

2. Booking Hotel Stays In Advance Is Advisable

Central to a solo traveler’s pre-planning should be hotel, campsite, or short-term rental reservations along the way.

These days, especially in the summer, you’re likely to find yourself with no place to stay without proper planning. Road trips are more popular than ever, and many hotels along major highways become booked weeks in advance, while camping at national parks sometimes requires booking months in advance. The stress of looking for accommodations en route is compounded when you’re alone because you don’t have another person to research vacancies while you drive.

Pro Tip: I’m a big fan of my Marriott Bonvoy rewards card and I usually try to find a Marriott brand hotel for my nights on the road. There are plenty of other loyalty and rewards programs to check out as well, along with VRBO for short-term rentals, and Hipcamp for camping sites.

3. Frequent Gas Ups Provide Peace Of Mind

My car gets about 40 miles to the gallon, so I could conceivably drive more than 500 miles before I need to gas up. For my peace of mind, I never wait anywhere that long and usually stop to fill gas every 250 miles or so.

Part of the reason is that gas station stops give me a chance to stretch my legs, get a cold beverage, and take a restroom break. Another part is the uncertainty of when I’ll be able to fill up again. Especially when I’m driving on remote roads in Texas , Arizona , or Nevada . I never take a chance on waiting for the next gas station.

Pro Tip: Cellphone apps like Gas Guru can help you determine where the next gas stop will be, and the lowest prices.

4. Having Complete Control Over Your Trip Is A Blessing And A Curse

Yes, solo road tripping offers a feeling of freedom by giving you complete control over your route, your stops, and the length of your stays. Remember that the tradeoff is that it also means you have total responsibility for all of the driving and little decisions along the way.

There are definitely times when I’d like a second opinion on a route or become bored with the drive. That’s when pre-planning comes in handy.

5. In-Car Entertainment Is Crucial

Whether it’s music, audiobooks, or podcasts, having something to keep my mind occupied as I drive makes all the difference in the world on my solo drives.

For me, nothing beats an audiobook to help pass the hours. Not only do I become immersed in a fascinating story, but I’m able to transport myself to faraway places. Some recent audiobooks I’ve loved for road-tripping are Amor Towles’ The Lincoln Highway , Elin Hilderbrand’s 28 Summers , and Lucy Foley’s The Paris Apartment .

I also like to check out the channels on my SiriusXM subscription. On one memorable summer trip through Arizona and Nevada in 2020, I listened to the entire countdown of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ Top 100 hits on the Tom Petty Channel. I’ve also been known to tune in to Comedy Central Radio’s hilarious sets and The Pulse’s recent hits.

Listening to podcasts is another entertaining option that many travelers swear by. Two fascinating choices to check out are Serial and This American Life .

Pro Tip: Free loans of audiobooks are available with a library card at many public libraries, via the Overdrive or Libby apps. I always keep my Overdrive account stocked with books so that I have plenty of choices on my long drives.

6. A Well-Serviced Car Is A Life Saver

As a road trip approaches, I make a point of getting my car in for service — if possible, by timing my regular oil changes with my trips. Then, I always mention to the service technicians that I have a big road trip coming up and ask them to check out crucial elements like the tires, brakes, windshield wipers, air conditioning, and fluids.

If and when unforeseen emergencies do come up, having a roadside assistance policy is crucial. To cover all my bases, I have towing coverage through my car insurance and also have a membership with AAA (American Automobile Association).

7. It’s Important To Pack Strategically

Although I typically subscribe to the mantra that it’s best to pack light, I believe a solo road trip is an opportunity to overpack a bit in the interest of being well-prepared. After all, you have the whole car to yourself!

I usually pack a jacket or two, along with an assortment of jeans, capris, blouses, sweatpants, a hat, and swimming suits. As a hiker, I like to have plenty of shoe choices, including hiking sandals, hiking boots, sneakers, flip-flops, and a couple of hiking packs.

I don’t like to carry everything into my hotel room each night, so I keep the shoes, jackets, and packs in separate large-size packing cubes that I leave in my car where they’re easy to grab, as needed.

Pro Tip: To deal with issues that come up on the road, I keep a supply of handy gadgets and products in my car, including jumper cables, a solar flashlight, disinfectant wipes, bandages, and duct tape. I also pack camping gear, including a tent, a sleeping bag, a pillow, and an air mattress — just in case.

8. Don’t Forget The Snacks And Drinks

To ensure that I have a supply of cold drinks, fresh fruit, and veggies for snacking, I keep a large 5-day ice retention Igloo Max cooler in the cargo area of my car, and a small cooler in the front seat where I can easily access it while I’m driving. I regularly replenish things from the larger cooler into my small cooler and add ice to both.

I like to stock my coolers with bottled water, sparkling water, soft drinks, and snack-size baggies full of grapes, orange slices, and mini carrots.

9. Finding Your Comfort Zone Enhances Safety

I’ve found that I can comfortably drive 8 to 10 hours in a day, but anything beyond that becomes taxing. As I map my route, I keep that in mind and make my hotel reservations accordingly.

It’s important to find your road-tripping rhythm, personal comfort zone, and never continue driving when you’re tired. Sometimes a quick nap in your car at a rest area can do wonders, but always remember to choose your spots with safety in mind. I carry small window shades that attach using suction cups to the glass to provide some privacy.

Pro Tip: The adage of “it’s more about the journey than the destination” is never truer than on a road trip. For that reason, I remind myself to be present, take it all in, and stop often to smell the roses (or the daisies or sunflowers or lupine). I recommend programming at least two hours of leeway into each day’s schedule to allow time to explore unexpected scenic byways and charming downtowns you encounter along the way.

For more tips on solo travel, check out these articles:

• 13 Inspiring Books Every Solo Female Traveler Should Read
• 16 Reasons House Sitting Is Perfect For Solo Women Travelers
• Lessons Learned On My Journey To Becoming A Solo Traveler

Cindy Barks is an Arizona-based newspaper reporter, freelance travel writer, and travel blogger. Her blog, NearandFarAZ gives readers an insider's view of the wonders of the U.S. Southwest, and a traveler's take on far-off locales from Panama to Hong Kong to the Czech Republic. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. Cindy's articles about outdoor adventures have appeared in numerous regional and national publications.

10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles.

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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Vital Safety List for Hiking Alone as a Woman

Explorer Chick

June 07, 2024

Even the most social of butterflies needs her quiet cocoon time for reflection now and then. Hiking alone isn’t better or worse than hiking with your partner, friends, or family—it’s just a different way to enjoy the outdoors.

When you hike with others , it’s more of a social event. You get to know people in a different setting than usual, and there’s probably a lot of talking and laughing. Plus, let’s face it: you’re relatively safe as part of a group.

When you’re out in the wilderness alone, however, it’s different. There’s this sort of badass “edge” to solo hiking, right? Nobody’s there to help you if you run into trouble. You start thinking about how vulnerable you are and problem-solve quickly-even if it’s only in your head. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to rely solely on your own wits and skills?

It’s an interesting experience, but not a bad one. In fact, it can be incredibly empowering and confidence-boosting. When you successfully navigate a challenging trail or overcome an obstacle on your own, you realize just how capable and resilient you truly are. Isn’t that a fantastic feeling?

Whether you hit your favorite hiking trail solo or you head out for a road trip to your favorite national park alone, here are some safety tips for ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure. Are you ready to embrace the thrill of solo exploration while prioritizing your well-being?

The Benefits of Hiking By Yourself

The best aspect of hiking solo is that it’s all about you (damn straight!). Most of us enjoy being with friends and part of a group. But when we’re with others, our decisions and actions have to be made as part of that group. There is always a little tension involved in balancing all the individual needs.

Consider something as simple as taking a ten-minute breather on the trail. To some hikers it may be a much-needed rest. But to others, it may feel more like an interference in stride and rhythm. However, for the benefit of the group, a decision has to be discussed and made together.

On the other hand, hiking by yourself means total freedom. It’s entirely up to you to decide when you eat or take a break. Want to jump in that alpine lake? Get a closer look at that weird tree fungus? Rip a giant fart? Go for it, sister.

Hiking alone also means peace and quiet. Can we get a hallelujah?! There’s a peacefulness that can’t be replicated when you’re with others. No words have to come between you and the beauty around you. The miles just flow. How often do you get to spend a day without having to communicate another human? Embrace the solitude!

And hey, if you’re not so keen for a solo hiking trip, then join other adventure-seeking women on the hiking trail. Sometimes, the best part of being a solo hiker is finding other women to go hiking with! Here are some of our favorite guided hiking and backpacking trips for women (where you might find your next hiking buddy):

• Moab Hiking
• Smoky Mountain Hiking
• Virginia Hiking
• Red River Gorge Hiking
• Maine and Acadia National Park

>> Check out ALL our Hiking Trips

Tips for Hiking Alone

First, understand that 99.9% of hikers are a friendly bunch who are out to enjoy nature just like you are. Additionally, most of these tips are based on common sense, no-duh advice everyone hiking alone should follow—not just women. But let’s face it: Along with having to deal with boobs and periods, being a woman means we sometimes have to take extra precaution for our safety. Does this suck? Yes. Is it totally unfair? Yes. Is it something we are dealing with so we can have a happy and safe time alone on the trail? Yes.

So how can you make your alone-time hiking trip foolproof and totally safe? You can’t. What you can do though, is make it way safer.

1. Know your hiking abilities and your limits

Yes, we’re putting this first because we see you out there trying to be superwomen! It seems like we’re all constantly trying to push our limits and comfort zones because, “We can do it!” Yes, of course we can! But that doesn’t always mean we should . If this is your first attempt at hiking alone, don’t plan 20 miles on a crazy-hard backcountry trail. Stick to well-traveled trails (where it’s also more likely a fellow hiker will be by at least every hour). When it comes to your body, challenge it but don’t push it. Know what you can handle in the beginning and build from there, working your way up to the longer hike.

The same is true for solo backpacking. Even if you’re a backpacking pro, still start small with solo backpacking until you find a comfortable (and safe) plan.

2. Choose your trail ahead of time and get to know the terrain

“Plan your hike, and hike your plan”. To rush out on a hike alone without proper planning is asking for trouble-and we don’t mean the good kind. Use every resource available to get to know the trail before you set out.

One of the best resources is AllTrails.com . When you’re searching for the perfect solo hike, take the difficulty level into consideration. All Trails does a great job outlining the difficulty level, elevation gain, and type of terrain.

Also, check out the comments and photos posted by others. Are there streams to cross? Any elevation changes? Will it be rocky or smooth? Think about what you’re ready to tackle and what you aren’t.

If you’re heading out into wild places, then it’s a good idea to get an idea of what kind of wild animal you might encounter on the trail (um, no thank you bear attack). The comments and pictures on All Trails will likely mention any obvious threats.

If you’re heading into the Pacific Northwest (like Glacier National Park) in the United States, then you’re flirting with bear country. If you’re heading out to the Grand Canyon or another desert in North America, then the sun and heat will be your greatest threat.

Get to know what to expect from the natural elements ahead of time so that you can be prepared.

3. Check the weather

Make sure you plan for sudden changes in temperature or precipitation. Even if the weatherman is proclaiming, “Bright and balmy all day, bitches!” you should still bring a few extra layers that protect against surprises. Remember, hypothermia is real, dangerous, and misunderstood — it can strike in relatively warm environments. Hypothermia (in case you don’t know) is rapid cooling of the body. This means it can be triggered by cold, wet, or a combination of both. You don’t want to mess with on any of your outdoor adventures, but definitely not alone.

4. Can you navigate like a pro? You should

Time to finally earn that orienteering badge! This is one skill you will be happy to know (and hey, show off a bit). Let’s say you’re two miles off your route and can’t get a signal on your phone, then what? Knowing even the basics of orienteering can help you out of a potentially dangerous situation. Try to get a physical map of the trial that you plan on hiking, or print off a copy and bring it with you. Even if you like to wander, you should be able to know where you are on a map.

5. Let everyone (but not “everyone”) know your hiking plans

There are a number of security measures that you can put in place before leaving for your hiking trip alone. This involves telling your friends and family important information such as:

• your specific plans/routes
• the places exactly where you are going
• what day and what time you expect to return
• the directions you plan to follow and possible alternative routes
• your mobile phone number
• your vehicle description
• your license plate number
• the local authority phone numbers (sheriff’s department, police, fish and game commission) for the country or area that you will be in

If you’re relatively new to hiking by yourself, arrange to contact members of your family or friends within a certain timeframe. Keep them posted of your whereabouts and your safety. And for heaven’s sake, don’t announce on social media you’re planning on hiking alone or share your route.

6. Park your car where it’s easy to spot and leave information inside

It’s important to leave detailed information about your hiking plan in your car before you head out. Make sure it’s findable for rescuers, but not visible through the window. Explorer Chick Senior Guide Lauren shares why it’s important to take the extra time to do this.

“If I’m hiking alone, I leave a folded up note on the seat of my car with the date, my ETA back to my car, and the route I’m hiking. If the police or park service pops my lock to check my car (if it’s been there longer than it should have), they’ll know where to look for me.”

If you experience a serious problem, keep in mind the popular trails are usually well-patrolled and Search & Rescue will take action if called upon. However, DO NOT use this as an excuse to head out on a hike unprepared!

7. Remember your cell phone

Make sure you have your cell phone with you at all times and that it’s fully charged. Trying to “get away from it all”? No problem! You can turn it off and put it in the bottom of your pack. If you want to use it to take photos, at least make sure you turn on airplane mode. That way, it isn’t wasting precious battery life constantly looking for a signal.

8. Bring your dog

If you’ve got a dog, bring that pupper hiking with you! It’s a nice way to enjoy a little extra security. Plus, your bestest buddy will be beyond thrilled with an adventure full of smells and gross stuff to roll around in. Just make sure before you go that the trails you plan to hike are dog-friendly, and keep your furry friend on leash (always follow Leave No Trace).

9. Pack the Essentials

Short or long hikes, these items should be with you no matter what:

• navigation ( topographic map and a compass )
• sun protection — we love the REI Sahara Shade Sun Hoodie
• lightweight jacket
• rain jacket
• illumination ( headlamp or flashlight ; spare batteries if needed)
• first aid kit
• fire-making supplies ( windproof lighter , waterproof matches , fire starter )
• knife and repair tools
• snacks and lunch

Make sure to double-check before you head out to see if anything needs replacing or updating.

10. Pack some extra protection

We’re not talking about that kind of protection. At least not without a cocktail in hand and a good hookup story. No, we’re talking about a few extra personal safety items you may want to think about bringing along as a woman. Both Lauren and Explorer Chick Guide Kirstie carry knives, which have the added benefit of being multipurpose tools for a variety of uses. Lauren also recommends pepper spray.

“Trusting your gut is #1. If your instincts say something is up — it probably is. You should be vigilant.” — Explorer Chick Guide, Kirstie

Another one of our Explorer Chick guides, Erin, recommends carrying a whistle. “They are already attached/built in to some packs but they are sometimes overlooked.” If your pack doesn’t come with a whistle, then this Whistles for LIFE will do the trick. This can come in handy in so many situations, from warding off grubby (read: aggressive) hikers to alerting rescue crews in the event that you are injured or lost.

11. Invest in a Hiking GPS/Satellite Communicator

Our Explorer Chick Guides are true explorers in every sense of the word. They love getting out and hiking solo. They also take hiking safely very seriously. One thing they never leave home without is a personal satellite communicator. Guides Kirstie and Kimberly both rely on the Garmin inReach Mini . So, what’s your go-to device for staying connected and safe on the trails? If you start hiking alone on a regular basis, do some research and find a device that works best for you.

“I have a Garmin inReach Mini [and] it’s perfect for solo traveling. I can use it to track my hikes, camping, and fly fishing trips. It has weather, two way messaging anytime (especially great for backcountry trips with no service), and I can mark waypoints, see where I am with an app on my phone. Basically, it’s like having service when there’s not any. It marks my longitude and latitude and can even send updates to my family, friends, and posts on social media.” — EC Guide Kimberly

You will be more than ready to go on a hike with these tips but most importantly, enjoy yourself and the beautiful views!

Need more inspiration for where to go on your next solo hike? See some of our other posts for the best hiking trails in the Midwest and the best places to travel solo in the USA !

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Home » Budget Travel » Our Top 15 Solo Travel Tips – From 100 Years on The Road!

Our Top 15 Solo Travel Tips – From 100 Years on The Road!

Solo travel is the greatest thing I have ever done. Yep, travelling solo has been the highlight of my life (so far). So much so that almost a year later I am still on the road!

Travelling solo for the first time can be an overwhelming, daunting and challenging experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Here at The Broke Backpacker, we believe that everyone should solo travel at one point in their lives.

Solo travel is a magnificent opportunity for growth, self-discovery and adventure. But, there’s no hiding from the challenges that come with travelling solo. Taking advice from experienced loners is one of the best ways to roll with these emotional and practical punches – that will no doubt hit you at some point on your journey.

I’ve teamed up with the rest of the broke backpacker gang (with over 100 years travel experience between us…) to give you all the tips that we wished we had when we started solo travelling.

So whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned solo traveller who just need a few tips and tricks, we’ve got you covered. Grab yourself a pen and paper, you’ll want to note down some of these solo travel tips!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

What is Solo Travel?

Why you should travel alone, 10 solo travel tips from experienced solo travellers, 5 essential solo travel safety tips, still unsure about solo travel join a group tour, solo travel quotes: inspiration for your adventure, final thoughts on solo travel.

Solo travelling is well, exactly what it says on the tin.  Travelling the world , all on your own!

Well, it doesn’t actually mean you’ll be on your own all of the time. Solo travellers often stay in hostels, hang out with people they’ve met on the road or stay in Airbnbs (or Couchsurf) with friendly locals.

But the best part is, you can do what you want and when you want. You’re not stuck to someone else’s itinerary or likes and dislikes. Not getting along with that new mate? Dump them! Not keen on your next destination? Make new plans. Now that’s freedom, baby!

Solo travel is all about having the space to do things your own way, go on your own personal journey and meet new people along the way – if you so wish. 

We could write for hours and hours about the benefits of travelling . But almost all of the benefits of travelling get quadrupled in their impact when done alone. There is just something about being thrown into challenging situations and having to deal with them all by yourself that can completely transform a person.

The cliche of travelling to find yourself has been used so much it has become a bit lame to say…. but guys, I hate to say that it’s true… you do “find yourself” when you travel.

Travelling teaches you to trust your instincts, to be comfortable and confident on your own and most importantly, you discover what you enjoy, what you don’t, and what YOU want from YOUR life.

On the road, I’ve met countless numbers of solo travellers and many of us choose to travel alone. Whether that’s because they chose to go on a journey of self-discovery or they just couldn’t convince their bestie to join em’.

You’re not getting any younger and there is a lotta world out there to be explored. So, I pose this question to you, fellow globetrotter… because if not now, then when ?

If you’re looking for advice from those who have been there, done it and are still doing it, you’ve come to the right place. Here at the top ten tips our team have to help you to thrive on your solo journey!

1. Just Fucking Start… Take the First Step

If you find the idea of solo travel intimidating, consider starting small – as long as you are stretching yourself out of your comfort zone, you are growing, and continuing to grow becomes easier. Take that first step, hit the road and see what adventures await…

This doesn’t necessarily mean travelling in India for two years without a phone like I did, although fuck – that was an amazing experience! We’re talking weekend trips and short little escapades!

I know this is easier for some than for others, but I’m sure wherever you are in the world there is a bus or a train you can take to a nearby town, or simply throw on a backpack and start walking… some of my best adventures have started out this way!

There is likely a local cafe there where you can sit in, strike up a conversation with an old lady and gain a new perspective on a bygone age!

Solo travel doesn’t need to mean hitchhiking halfway across an entire continent or staying away from your loved ones for months on end.

The concept of adventure is subjective, and whilst I like pushing my own boundaries I’ve already stretched these pretty far over my life – it’s important that you just gather up your courage and take the first plunge.

Will : Founder & Chief Adventurer

Many things are often easier than they seem, and sometimes all you gotta do is just go for it 🙂

2. Stay in Hostels

As a full-time solo traveller, I’ve racked up my fair share of nights in hostels. Trust me, I’m a professional at hostel life . Whilst I will admit that hostels can be a bit of a mixed bag sometimes, the overall experience of staying in hostels is always a positive one.

Staying in hostels is perhaps one of the most challenging mental hurdles for someone who is travelling solo for the first time. But, it’s one of the best pieces of advice that I would give to anyone who is looking to socialise and meet new people. 

Yes, hostels are safe. I’ve stayed in some of the worst and best hostels in the world but I could count my negative experiences on one hand. Plus, they always make for funny stories!

If you are uncomfortable with sharing dorm rooms, which is kind of valid, I would still take a private room in a hostel over a private room in a hotel or Airbnb as a solo traveller any day of the week.

Joe : Content Manager & Serial Side Quester

Hostels are cheaper, more fun, more inclusive and far more memorable than hotels. If you’re a solo traveller on a budget it’s an absolute no-brainer.

3. Get Off Ya Damn Phone

When solo travelling, if you don’t get out of your digital world and into the real one… you may not need to talk to another human for days. Scary thought, right? 

Everything is contained in our little robotic devices and they make our lives ridiculously easy, especially when it comes to travel. They tell us where to go, where to eat and are the perfect escape from having to converse with real human beings. 

Although your phone can provide hugely helpful information (like this incredibly useful article) and some travel apps are super useful, it can also be the downward demise of your solo travel adventures.

Imagine if instead of roaming, head down, as you follow your blue dot on Google Maps, you asked a local person for directions. Or, if instead of scrollin’ TikTok, you went down to the hostel kitchen and met someone new! 

This solo-travel tip is particularly helpful for us young bucks and introverts out there who are often wired to our phones as our comfort pillows. Instead of reaching for your phone – challenge yourself, get out of your comfort zone, be present, and immerse yourself in the real world around you. You can thank me later 🙂

Danielle : Junior Editor & Oceanic Explorer

Solo travel can be scary and often we tuck ourselves away into our digital worlds as protection, but this is time to be brave! Put your phone done and immerse yourself in the real world around you. This is when the true magic of solo travel happens.

4. Use Couchsurfing

A big part of what has made my solo adventures more meaningful is connecting with locals through Couchsurfing .

A big part of is actually “surfing” and staying with people in their own house, but I understand not everyone feels comfortable with that.

And that’s when their “Hangouts” feature comes in handy. I’ve used it in many of the places I’ve travelled to, even if I’m staying at a hostel or guesthouse. I’ve used it even in my hometown!

It allows you to connect with locals and other travellers and make or join existing plans. Go for a walk, explore sights, or join a party crew. The opportunities are endless.

Tomás : Brand Specialist & Whizz-Kid

The opportunity to hang out with people that call a place their own will more often than not lead you to more authentic experiences than any other path you follow.

5. Learn a Bit of the Local Language

One of the best things I did to prepare myself to go travelling solo for the first time was to get serious about learning the local language .

About 6 months before I had hoped to head out, I got connected with an online teacher who was a professional when it came to teaching foreigners Urdu, my target tongue. Becoming bilingual helped me connect with the people I met in ways I truly could never have come close to without Urdu proficiency.

I’ve particularly valued my conversations with other women the most – it’s a totally different experience from my first trip to Pakistan where I only knew a few words. Then, I was more of an observer, but now I can fully participate in so much more.

I eventually learned enough to have full-blown conversations in Urdu, which majorly came in handy when I had to negotiate a taxi from the airport at 3 AM!

Samantha : Travel Writer & Adventure Expert

One of the best things I did to prepare myself to go travelling solo for the first time was to get serious about learning the local language.

6. Don’t Forget to Record Your Experience

Travelling solo can be a life-altering experience that allows you to focus on yourself in a way you’ve probably never been able to before… and that’s not a selfish thing. Sometimes we need the space to explore our own wants, dreams and desires without the safety net of our parents, friends or family. 

With such an opportunity for self-growth, journaling and recording your experience is so important. There are many life lessons to be learnt on the road and there in your humble journal is where they’ll live forever, ready to be enacted with the time comes. After all, aren’t you supposed to be “ Travelling solo to find yourself !” 

Not only should you be sure to record your thoughts, feelings and emotions on your solo travels, but take some bloody pics too! 

Photography when travelling alone is significantly more challenging than when you’re with another person, but with some confidence and planning, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have some kickass photos too. 

Here are some of my tips for solo travel photography:

• Take a tripod and use either the self-timer, a remote or an app on your phone if your camera has one. 
• When you’re using a “proper” camera and want to nail the focus, place your bag on the spot you want to stand in and focus on it. Then when you sprint over stand in the same spot and quickly move your bag out of the frame. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask people: Whether it’s a friendly-looking stranger on the street or some folks from the hostel, as long as they seem trustworthy then go for it! It can often be a great icebreaker. 
• Buy a good travel camera with a flipable screen. I use a Sony RX100 VII as my designated “selfie camera”. You can also use your front-facing camera on your phone but be aware the quality often isn’t as good as your rear cameras. Plus, don’t be afraid to bust out the selfie stick either (as long as you’re not a menace with it!) 

Nic : Editor & Roaming Renegade

Take pictures with the people you meet – it’s the perfect way to remember all those wonderful times together, even if they are short.

7. Try Volunteering Abroad

Volunteering platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers are a great place to start if you are solo travelling. Look I get it, solo travel can be SUPER intimidating. My first ever solo travel, I volunteered at an eco-community, and I felt like it was a great way to ease into the travel world.

It feels nice to arrive in a new country and to know that people are waiting for you. It gives a sense of direction. I still remember what it was like arriving, and immediately getting thrown into a smoothie shack job, serving fruits and smiles at the start of my time volunteering in Costa Rica .

I quickly made friends and found myself comfy at work. Not only does volunteering abroad help with direction in a new country, but it also really helped me find myself.

Amanda : Junior Editor & Senior Dreamer

Travelling solo is a beautiful way to find yourself, and I find meaningful volunteer programs to help with that discovery.

8. Group Chats to The Rescue

As an over-researcher, under-socialiser and lifelong introvert, I was hella nervous about going solo travelling for the first time. Now that it’s no longer my first rodeo, I can’t help but laugh at how worried I was about making friends.

Of course, I’d stress the importance of getting off your phone and being present, but let’s be real – being ultra-connected online has its perks. My biggest tip to avoid feeling like a deer in headlights on your solo trip? Dive into group chats!

Whether it’s on Hostelworld or WhatsApp, these group chats are a godsend. They remind you that everyone else is in the same boat – open to making friends and sharing adventures.

Whether you get stuck in or are a serial stalker, these chats are FILLED with travel tips, dinner invites, and surf trip offers. They make you feel less alone and part of a global community of people eager to explore the same stunning places as you. Isn’t that what we’re all here for?

Taya : Junior Editor & World Explorer

My biggest tip to avoid feeling like a deer in headlights on your solo trip? Dive into group chats!

9. Pack Light

The beauty of packing light (I always travel carry-on only ) is that you can up and leave and deep dive into the adventure. You’re flying in and out of situations and people’s lives and they’re probably never going to remember what you were wearing. 

You don’t need that extra pair of shoes that you really like, or that tenth top that’s really just like the first nine you packed. My top tip for packing light is to travel to warm countries. Yeah, you’ll be a sweaty mess but you can usually (respectfully) strip down to rather minimal clothing and rinse and repeat outfits. 

So pack and pack again amigos, I’ll usually pack, give it a couple of days and then cull my pack by half. Anything that’s “just in case” – ditch it – be ruthless! Use a packing list and you will be sweet.

The beauty of travelling solo is that you’re never really alone (unless you reall y want to be) and in other people’s reflections you find yourself. So forget about your extra baggage and enjoy the trip – more often than not, you’ll be fine, if not better than when you started out. 

Maz : Junior Editor & Soul Searcher

The beauty of travelling solo is that you’re never really alone (unless you reall y want to be) and in other people’s reflections you find yourself.

10. Keep your Plans Flexible and Be Social

I’ve done the majority of my travel solo and I am a huge advocate . While I may not have been the smartest when it came to my travel plans… As in I’ll buy the ticket and organise a ride to the airport… I’ve had a lot of fun and wonderful experiences I could never have planned. 

Travelling solo for the first time, I was terrified – I’m an introverted extrovert and was way out of my comfort zone. My top tip travel tip for introverts travelling solo is to fake it till you make it, baby . 

On my first trip as a solo female traveller , I stayed in a hostel, jumped in the pool and started with my new hostelmates. I tagged along to a festival, bought a bootleg ticket, got in, and then got kicked out. The same guy who sold me the ticket ushered me behind his scooter, fixed up my wristband and sent me back into the party. 

Solo travel will push you out of your comfort zone, you’ll have the opportunity to release control and slip into the flow. You never know who you’ll meet or where you’ll go. Get into it, it’s divine!

My top tip travel tip for introverts travelling solo is to fake it till you make it, baby .

The world is a big place, and everyone is different, so it’s hard to speak for everybody, everything and everywhere. What I can say though is that for the majority of people, in the majority of the world’s places and based on the fact that thousands if not millions of people do it every year: YES, solo travelling is safe.

That being said, whilst solo travel on the whole is safe, it goes without saying that there are of course many rules, precautions and practices you can use to increase your chances of staying safe on the road. 

Our team has come together with some our our top safety tips for solo travellers to feel more at ease. Here they are!

11. Don’t Get Too Drunk on Your Own

When you go out on your own (or with some friends that you just met), you cannot afford to get blackout drunk and unfortunately, I’ve seen it too many times during my time on the road.

The harsh reality in some parts of the world is that you don’t know anyone. There may not be anyone to save you if anything does get sideways. You need to look after yourself, drink responsibly and keep your wits about you.

Now this is an important safety for everyone but it’s especially relevant for solo female travellers. Oh, and I think it goes without saying that this tip also applies to those of you who may consider dabbling in drugs on the road .

Backpackers, please, drink responsibly.

12. Keep Your Vaulable Safe and Outsmart Thieves

When you’re travelling solo, your passport, phone and cards are like your oxygen, so keeping them safe is essential. Whether you’re walking the bustling streets of Bangkok or backpacking through Europe you don’t want to be worrying about having your hard-earned dolla stolen.

Truth is thousands of travellers get robbed every year ( and a whopping 1 in 50 in London … ) BUT my friend, you can take steps to prevent that from being you. To keep your valuables safe, I recommend getting yourself a snazzy little travel belt that has an RFID blocker to prevent electronic thieves from skimming from your cards without you knowing. 

Investing in one of these bad boys isn’t going to break the bank and is far cheaper than having your bank account emptied, trust me.

Harvey : Junior Editor & Double Protein Champion

Don’t let pesky thieves ruin your solo escapades. Trust me, it’s a bit of a downer…

13. Always Travel With Spare USD

In many places in the world cash is king, especially a few crispy Dollar bills. It’s amazing what this bit of green paper can do when you’re in a bind. Bribing Thai police officers? Done! Bribing Vietnamese security guards? Check! Bribing Cambodian border officials? Yep! 

Ok, you get the pattern here. 

But it’s not just for bribing corrupt state employees the world over. USD is a currency that is universally accepted and if you run out of local money or your card goes walkabouts, USD is gonna save your ass. 

I always make sure to hide around $100 across my belongings in various sizes for any and all occasions. 

If you’re feeling fruity, then you can always carry a few bills in your prison pocket.

14. Let People Know Your Whereabouts Before Heading Off

If you’re heading out on a hike or anywhere alone that you feel could have the potential for danger (think, going on a Tinder date with some random dude), then let someone you trust know. 

There are various levels to this. You could just tell the folks at the hostel you’re hiking up that massive hill and you should be back around 5 pm. Or, you can even set up some tracking apps on your phone so your parents back home can track your movements. 

Other cool features on some watches (my Garmin for example) allow me to let someone track me when I have my watch set for a walk or a run. Then some taxi services such as Grab allow you to send your live location to anyone, anywhere in the world. 

All these things, as well as simply just passing on details of your hike/ date/ day trip to other people be that family or new hostel buddies, help keep you safe should anything untoward happen. 

I also like to make a point of having a call home each week just to have a chat with my parents, and fill them in on what I’ve been up to and what my upcoming plans are.

15. Only Use Reputable Taxi Services at Night

As I mentioned in my last tip, many of the big ride-share services have features on your app to keep you safe as well as having well-vetted and reviewed drivers. 

Always make sure you use these services when you’re getting a cab, especially at night. 

Well-known taxi apps such as Uber and Grab have a ton of safety features including sharing your live location with a contact, sound recording, PIN verification from drivers, in-ride check-ins as well as multilevel screening. 

These apps can also detect if a crash has happened and you can dial the emergency services from within the app too. 

Whereas if you flag down a random cab from the street, well, there could be anyone driving (it could even be a fake cab ) and there is no record of your trip either.

Sometimes the old school tips are the best and these ones have gotten me out of a fair few problems, let me tell you!

16. And Finally… Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

One thing that solo travellers should always think about, is getting themselves some good and solid travel insurance . When you have no mates to fall back on, you need something to be your safety net just in case disaster strikes. 

Not all travel insurance policies are the same and not all travel insurers are equal but these days, pretty much all of us at The Broke Backpacker use SafetyWing. They offer a simple and cost-effective monthly subscription model that you can stop and start very easily at any time. While they offer a pretty basic cover level in terms of flight cancellation etc, we find their medical coverage to be absolutely bloody excellent.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Whilst it’s all well and good us a lot going on about solo travel, let’s face it, some people might just need that extra bit of support. 

One of the ways I’ve seen plenty of travellers begin their journey to fully fledged solo explorers is via a group tour. Many people take these tours on their own as a way of easing into life on the road, meeting like-minded people and building confidence. 

A good friend of mine started her six-month solo Southeast Asia backpacking trip with a three-week G-Adventures group tour of Thailand. This meant her first time flying overseas she had someone to meet her at the other end, her first time staying in a hostel was somewhere she knew was safe and she could really grow into backpacking. 

As a very nervous traveller, she never thought she’d be able to go backpacking, let alone on her own. But after her tour, she continued the rest of the trip solo and never looked back, in fact, she extended her trip and carried on to South America! 

Sometimes, it’s that little push we need to see what we’re capable of and a G Adventures Tour is the perfect way. 

In case you are still on the fence about taking a solo adventure, here are our absolute favourite travel quotes to give you that extra boost of inspiration and courage. And yes, I am also somewhat alarmed by how many of our team members decided to quote themselves…

Joe: “Before you play the single-player game that is life, you’ve got to explore the map.” – Joe

Dani: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

Harv: “Growth begins at the edge of your comfort zone” – Harvey Pike

Samantha: “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” – John Muir

Tomás: “I like big butts and I cannot lie” – Sir Mix-a-lot

Aiden:  “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there” – Lewis Carroll

Amanda:  “Travel is never a matter of money, but of courage.” – Paulo Coelho

Taya: “Travel. Money returns. Time does not.” – Taya

Maz : “When the traveller goes alone, they get acquainted with themselves” – Liberty Hyde Bailey

Nic: “I adapt to the unknown,

Under wandering stars I’ve grown,

By myself but not alone,

I ask no one,

And my ties are severed clean,

The less I have, the more I gain,

Off the beaten path I reign.” 

– Metallica. “Wherever I May Road.” 

Alright, folks – so there you have it. You’ve got no excuses now, make it happen and get out there and travel solo. You can doooo it – we believe in you!

As we’ve laid out here, there are heaps of different ways to do that, from plunging in at the deep end to dipping your toe in and gradually getting a feel for it. A bit like swimming in Wales, it’s mega enjoyable after you get over the initial shock! 

Fear not because armed with our extensive list, plucked right from the nipple of experience, you’re gonna have the best time. No more awkward hostel small talk, no more out-of-focus pictures and no more waiting for your flaky mate. 

Get out there, make a shit ton of friends, see a fuck load of epic places and return home a different person.

• Don’t forget the essentials with our in-depth backpacking packing list . 
• Sort your international SIM card out to avoid unnecessary hassle.
• Real adventures begin when you learn how to travel off the beaten track .
• Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
• Get yourself covered with trusty travel insurance before you leave.  
• Investing in the best travel backpack for you will change your life!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

The Broke Backpacker

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18 Tips for a Solo Road Trip Out West

There’s always that one moment. 

You reach the crest of a hill. You round a bend. And suddenly, the landscape laid out before you literally takes your breath away.

You might argue that this is exactly the time when you’d want someone with you to share it. But there’s an extra intensity — a sense of being totally present — when you experience a moment like this alone.

Taking a solo road trip out west is iconic. The vistas are truly expansive, like a landscape painting that breathes. And there’s a sense of being a pioneer all over again, exploring places that you’re sure no one has ever passed — mostly because you’re completely alone. 

I promise I’m not anti-social. In fact, one of my favorite parts of taking a solo road trip out west is meeting people along the way, which happens differently than when you road trip in a more dense part of the country, such as the South or the East. But I find a road trip in wide-open spaces to be a fantastic way to travel solo. That may sound counterintuitive, but it’s easy to feel lonely in a crowd of happy couples and families.

It seems as if the expectation to be alone is more natural out west. Could it be because these areas are often home to rugged individualists who want to escape the grid? Perhaps. Lower population levels in states west of the Mississippi are likely part of it too. 

Whatever the case, a solo road trip out west is ideal for meditation, for healing, for exploring thoughts and feelings. Places where Mother Nature demands your attention but little else does are especially good for someone experiencing a transition in life. Or for someone who simply wants to get away from it all. 

Going it alone in regions where gas stations are few and far between, however, does require you to be super smart about a few things.

1) Before you ever plan a solo road trip out west, be sure to check out my blog on what to pack in a road trip emergency kit . I feel so much more confident knowing that no matter what comes, I can survive for a few days in my car. I also tend to go hiking along the way during a solo road trip out west, so I bring my backpack, which includes gear to help me survive for a few days as well . 

2) For a solo road trip out west, I recommend packing a cooler and a bag of food. Restaurants, even fast food joints can be few and far between. And because of the ongoing staffing shortages, sometimes they’re closed even if they exist at all. A cooler full of drinks, breakfast foods and other favorites can tide you over. 

Be sure that bag of food goes beyond the typical road snacks. In my last solo road trip out west, I packed turkey jerky, some salt-free tortilla chips, some nut and raisin mixes that I made at home and plenty of peanut butter and jelly. In my cooler, I included some mini packs of mashed avocado and a big bag of baby carrots, some yogurt, and some kombucha, sparkling water and Coke Zero. You do you, of course, but think about some healthy additions to your typical road trip snacks that can serve as balanced meals.

And don’t forget the water. Be sure you have plenty of reusable water bottles filled with drinking water. I always have extra in my car emergency kit, but I fill a few Nalgenes every day that I’m on the road — more than I’ll drink in a day — just in case I get stuck somewhere.

(I was really glad that I took a bowl of precooked rice and a can of tuna, too. By the time I arrived at my Microtel in Vernal, Utah, after a long day of driving and hiking, nearby restaurants were closed. but there was a microwave in my room. And that was a great dinner.)

3) Don’t leave that food in your car overnight! Bears have been known to rip doors off of cars and destroy the interior trying to get at food — and they can smell incredibly well. Take your food into the hotel with you. If you’re camping, use a bear canister ; depending on where you’re staying, rangers may ask you to also string up the canister and provide a means to hang it, or place it in a locker at the campground.

4) If you’re taking a solo road trip out west, I highly recommend both travel insurance and a roadside assistance plan. I have the Allianz annual plan as well as AAA. It’s reassuring to know that someone will come fetch you and make it all better if you run into a real problem.

5) When you take a solo road trip out west, gas stations can be sparse. And the last thing you want to do is run out of gas miles from anywhere. Even with roadside assistance, you could end up waiting a long while. If I’m down to half a tank. I’ll stop and top it off, just because I don’t always know how far it is till the next gas station. Of course, you can do a pretty good job of figuring that out by using the plethora of road trip apps listed in this blog that I wrote for Airsteam. 

I make good use of the rest area app, because on my last trip through northwest Colorado I stopped to find a potty six times at various places in one day, and only lucked out twice. One gas station was locked up; another didn’t have working restrooms; a visitor center was closed for Juneteenth…you get the idea. Thank God for rest areas.

6) On that note, another tip for a solo road trip out west is to take along a potty kit. I keep one in my glove box and several in my hiking pack. It’s nothing special — just a compostable sandwich bag with a single-use amount of toilet paper stuffed inside, paired with a small bottle of hand sanitizer. This way if I’m truly desperate I can find some shrubbery and make do without littering — I just toss the baggie when I see a trash can. (Though finding shrubbery can be as difficult out west as finding a restroom.)

7) In my work for Airstream, I recently interviewed several women who are solo female travelers. They had all kinds of ideas for safety and protection, including keeping an air horn handy. One travels with a gun, but I personally abhor guns and would never use or own one, so I carry pepper spray in my purse, and I have bear spray in my hiking backpack. Both will buy me some time in an emergency. 

I have a whistle, though that’s not as effective if you’re in a truly remote space. I also have an app on my phone called UrSafe that lets me push a button and send for help, as well as alert my emergency contacts. But again, that’s not always helpful if you’re in a remote area without cell service. 

So I also carry a sat phone. A satellite phone can be a bit of an investment upfront and does require a monthly service plan, but if you’re going to be hiking, biking or traveling in remote spaces, it’s a fantastic investment in your security. 

8) Sometimes when traveling on a solo road trip out west, you’ll pass through Native American lands. Many of these spaces have unique requirements: Sometimes you’re not permitted to take photos. Sometimes you have to provide identification upon entry and tell tribal representatives when you’re planning to leave the reservation. I know that as a Journey Here traveler, you’ll be respectful of customs and cultures. 

But what you might not know is that these lands often lack services. No restaurants, no gas stations and no cell service, sometimes for hours. Driving through a Native American reservation is a stunning experience, because you’ll get dark skies like no other, and it’s a rare glimpse into what the western part of the United States might have looked like centuries ago. But all of the tips is this blog are truly essential here.

9) Keep your gadgets charged, and consider including a solar charger in your lineup. I keep all of my communications devices topped up when I’m traveling on a solo road trip out west. My phone is always plugged in, because it’s my navigation. But I also top off my spare battery, and I carry a solar charger so that, worst case, I can use the power of the sun to get a few sips of juice. Mine is small and light enough to strap on the back of my backpack so that every time I go hiking, it’s picking up energy.

10) If you’re not from these spaces out west, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. Those used to a more urban or suburban environment might be uncomfortable. I’ve found that if you can overlook some of the obvious differences and be friendly and relatable, people will be friendly and relatable in return. Having grown up out in the country in the Midwest, I learned that sometimes the barrier is a bit of insecurity. Some people in more rural spaces anticipate that a person who looks differently or dresses differently or has different license plates might be condescending. So being open and friendly when it seems appropriate knocks down a lot of those walls. 

Of course, some of these spaces really aren’t friendly to women traveling alone, people of color or people of different races, ethnicities or practices. So listen to your gut. Use all those skills that you use when you’re traveling in any foreign environment. Pay attention, try to assimilate as much as possible and be aware of prevailing practices. 

I find that national and state parks are often friendly environments. It means there’s a better infrastructure for and expectation of tourists and visitors. And the people who visit the park systems come from all over to explore and see new things, so diverse experiences and perspectives are baked in.

11) Stay organized. This is a good tip for any road trip, but when you’re in places with dust, sand and rocks, where opportunities to offload trash and especially recycling are rare, a few extra steps could save your sanity.

• I built a little trash bin for my backseat out of the box that formerly held a case of almond milk from Costco. A small trash bag fit perfectly inside and was sturdy and stable. I put it within arm’s length of my driver’s seat. I tossed trash at gas stations but kept my cans in there until I could recycle them. 
• I chose biodegradable and compostable servingware and dishes to lessen my impact while eating away from home. My sandwich and snack baggies are biodegradable and compostable too. I carry dish soap with me so that I can wash out my reusable water bottle each night.
• I have an old rug over my floor mat so that as I’m getting in and out of my car with filthy shoes or hiking boots, cleanup is a little easier. I can grab the rug and shake it out along the way, then toss it in the washing machine on hot when I get home. 
• I always keep a pretty big bottle of hand sanitizer in my center console. But I also have hand sanitizing wipes there, because sometimes you’re just dirty, and liquid sanitizer is only going to smear it around. I also have some Seventh Generation cleaning wipes handy so that I can wipe up spills like coffee or yogurt or bugs that find their way onto the dashboard and die. My car may be pretty cluttered during a solo road trip out west, but I don’t like it to be really grubby.

12) Stay comfortable. A road trip can be good for the soul, but it can be hard on the body. These are the ways I take care of myself.

• The sun is much stronger in many parts of the west, especially at elevation, so I keep sunscreen in my center console. I always put it on my hands and wrists, as well as on my shoulder if the sun is coming through the side window.
• I tore my hamstring at the connection to my hip this spring, and I’ve always had piriformis syndrome, so I put a custom cushion on my seat. That makes my lumbar support all wonky, however, so I also put a cushion behind my lower back. Yes, I very much feel like an old lady. I suppose maybe I am. But the ache is intolerable otherwise.
• Being in the car puts me right to sleep. Literally, if I’ve been going hard, I can doze off at a stoplight driving across town. So I give myself plenty of time to sleep at night, in case my insomnia kicks in, and I try to avoid driving more than five to seven hours a day.
• I also break up a long drive with a short hike. I use the pro version of the AllTrails app to find hikes along my route. I can think of no better way to restore blood flow while seeing unique gems, and an hour doesn’t put me too far behind. 

13) Prep your entertainment. Speaking of staying awake: You might not have cell service during your solo road trip out west, which means you also might not be able to make phone calls or listen to music. Download a lot of podcasts, audio books or language lessons. You can feed your brain from point A to point B. 

You can also download the Otter app and do some writing while you’re driving. Not literally, of course, but the Otter app allows you to speak into your phone and get a rough transcription of your thoughts, which you can send to email and clean up later. That’s actually how I wrote this blog. It was composed while I was driving from Vernal, Utah, to Salt Lake City amid some of the most gorgeous but remote scenery you’d ever hope to see.

14) Stop at the rest areas. They tend to be a little bit cleaner than gas station bathrooms, and there are often interesting tidbits or brochures about the region inside. Iowa has some of the best rest areas along I-80, with fascinating facts about the wind power turbines that you can see in motion all around you as you drive.

There’s usually some green space, if you need to get out and stretch your legs a little bit. Or If you need to close your eyes for 15 minutes, you can pull off at a rest area, park in one of the spots a little further toward the edge, lock your doors and put your seat back

And I’ve seen some amazing scenery from rest areas. Driving back to Idaho Falls from the Tetons during a solo road trip out west, I stopped at remote rest area along the Snake River. The sunset was so stunning that I went back to my car and grabbed my phone to take photos. The rest area in Glenwood Canyon, in Colorado, is right beside the sparkling Colorado River. And a rest area that I visited in Utah on my way to Salt Lake City had a path to the top of the hill at the edge of the parking lot where you could see a massive lake, plus whole eras of paleontological history in the bluffs behind it. 

So stop at every rest area that you see. You never know when you’re going to get another chance to go potty, and the views can be phenomenal.

15) Stop at the viewing areas. My someday dream is to endlessly road trip with enough time to stop at every scenic pulloff. Getting out of the car is different than seeing the scenery at 65 mph. The air will smell different from place to place, depending on the flora and fauna. It might feel warmer or cooler or drier. You can hear the sounds of native birds and animals. Getting out and appreciating the detail of a place from the viewing area off the highway is a sensory experience. Most highways have signs at least a mile in advance so you can make your way over. 

16) When you set out on a solo road trip out west, you need to understand how to drive up and down big hills … aka mountains. Please don’t freak out when I encourage you to learn how to drive in the mountains. Believe me, I didn’t know how to for a long, long time. I grew up in very flat northeast Indiana. A little bit of time with Google or YouTube can help teach you how to use your gears and your brakes on steep inclines and declines and hairpin curves.

You also need to be aware that wild animals could cross your path, especially at twilight when deer are more active. And in certain parts of the country, you’ll encounter a lot of bicyclists riding on the shoulder. So you should watch not just the road, but also the sides of the road. 

17) Knowing how to handle things like a massive rainstorm, hail or an encounter with an animal is really important too. I didn’t grow up knowing this either. (Except deer. It was an unfortunate and expensive rite of passage to hit a deer driving alongside woods and fields every time you went anywhere, growing up in the rural area where I did.) I lived for three years in Chicago, so I’m comfortable in spaces that are dense, noisy and heavily populated — places without falling rocks or moose. But I promise you that this is something you can learn. 

If you really want to be empowered, try taking a wilderness first responder course — graduates are called “woofers.” While it’s intense, and it’s not necessary for a solo road trip, it will help you prepare for any eventuality and make you aware of things you should avoid or do in the outdoors.

18) And before you embark on a solo road trip out west, you should read our general solo travel safety tips . Among the important considerations here: 

• Don’t tell people that you’re traveling alone.
• Don’t tell them where you’re staying.
• And be hyper-vigilant about the cars around you or the people hiking around you on a trail.

As with hiking, you should always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be there, so that if something happens, people know where to begin the search. I also share my location on my iPhone with a loved one. I may be traveling solo, but I have a whole support team back home.

One of the things that I love about a solo road trip out west is the sense of openness and awe and wild. I feel as if there are endless new vistas around every corner or at the top of every hill, and wide open spaces where I can think and explore forever. 

I also love the challenge that comes with being alone in these wide-open spaces where Mother Nature is in charge and you have to play by her rules. You have to be smart, savvy and aware. You have to have a plan A and plan B and a plan C.

The good news is that just about anyone on a road trip is happy to share their tips and advice. So many people going in the other direction have told me about their favorite spots in the town I’ll be passing through next, or a majestic view on the highway ahead. So many people have been willing to share information or ask questions. They call it trail magic when you’re hiking. I’m sure there must be a similar name for the kindness I’ve found during a road trip.

A solo road trip out west can be an incredibly moving, empowering and stunning experience. You’ve heard of Eat Pray Love , right? For me, it’s Drive, Think, Hike . I don’t always have someone to travel with, but I’d never want to give up those experiences. So pack well. Fuel up often. And get ready to see things that blow your mind and crack your heart wide open.

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Finding myself on an adventurous (and solo) wyoming road trip.

W hen facing tough life decisions, sometimes, having time alone for introspection can be just what you need. And what better way to do that than to hit the road in an inspiring location, with a good playlist, a tank full of gas, and a blank journal? (And limited cell service, in my case.)

When I set out on my solo Wyoming road trip through the picturesque Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming, I was apprehensive, as it was my first road trip alone. However, I was eager for some time away from my usually busy schedule to focus on discovering what’s most important to me at this point in my life. Many of us – myself included – spend much of our time just going through life, getting wrapped up in our day-to-day activities without making time to reflect and plot intentional paths forward toward our goals.

Photo: amadeustx /Shutterstock

When I found myself with few free days to travel, I decided to make space for daydreaming, reminiscing, and setting future goals. And a Wyoming road trip seemed like it would provide plenty of wide-open spaces to support my wandering and wondering.

The Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming have an ever-changing landscape, dotted with roaming wildlife, charming small towns, and friendly residents. It turned out to be an ideal location, away from the crowds of Yellowstone and Jackson Hole, and with just enough activities to challenge me, but not enough to create a schedule of endless distractions.

My Wyoming road trip route

• Total driving distance: +/- 501 miles
• Total driving time:  +/- 9 hours

Day one: Cody to Buffalo

• Driving distance: 220 miles
• Total drive time: 4 hours

I started by flying into the Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming (not to be confused with Yellowstone Airport in West Yellowstone, Montana). In Cody, I picked up a rental car and headed east to beautiful Shell Falls for my first stop in the Bighorn Mountains.

It sits along the Bighorn Scenic Byway and the drive there passes through the 1.1 million-acre Bighorn National Forest. It’s a sprawling landscape of vast open plains, steep canyon walls, dense forests, streams and creeks, green meadows, and stunning red cliffs. To stretch my legs and appreciate the beauty, I stopped at the Shell Falls National Recreational Trail, an easy trail with several lookout points. After breathing the fresh mountain air, listening to the rush of the falls, and taking in the splendor of the scenery, I found a bench facing the 120-foot-tall falls and pulled out my journal to start plotting my dream life. Off to a good start.

Next, I started driving to Tensleep Canyon, where I’d booked my first official activity of the trip: guided rock climbing. On the way, I stopped in the sleepy town of Greybull (population 1,700) for lunch at Lisa’s Western Cuisine & Spirits . Like many of the small towns in the region, the main street is lined with historic brick buildings housing restaurants, motels, and shops. With timber walls, rodeo artwork, and a menu featuring Southwestern and Tex-Mex cuisine, I filled up on pasta primavera and a spinach salad. Reaching Tensleep was a lot of driving, but it gave me the time to alternate between listening to a motivational audio book, and having quiet time to contemplate and appreciate the scenery.

Photo: Kris Wiktor /Shutterstock

At Tensleep Canyon, I met up with Wyoming Mountain Guides owner Zach Lentsch, who belayed me on a challenging (well, challenging for me, at least) 50-foot-tall climbing route across a limestone face. Lentsch grew up climbing in Wyoming and is eager to make climbing accessible to everyone, while educating the next generation on the importance of sustainability. Witnessing him living a life of such passion made me grateful for taking time to ensure the utmost contentment in my own life.

After a successful climb, we ducked behind some overgrown trees and scrambled around towering boulders to a point overlooking a 100-foot-tall face – and the dramatic terrain below. From there, I could see the rugged gray-and-painted-red rocks against the lush green valley, divided by rushing Tensleep Creek. Despite some trepidation, I managed to make it to the top of the much taller route, and came away from the afternoon feeling confident and proud. From the front seat of my car, with the door open, I listened to the soothing sounds of the creek while jotting down some poignant thoughts in my journal.

Photo: Cheri Alguire /Shutterstock

My last drive for the day took me to Buffalo, Wyoming, along the Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway. Feeling good after climbing, I sang out loud to my favorite ’80s tunes playing on the local radio station as I passed ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, cottonwoods, and aspen trees.

By the time I reached Buffalo, I was hungry and tired, and happy to check into The Historic Occidental Hotel . The Victorian hotel dates to 1808 and is a museum as well as a hotel, housing artifacts and antiques from the Old West era, when it hosted guests like “Buffalo” Bill Cody and Butch Cassidy.

While sinking my teeth into a tasty black bean burger (no bison burgers for this vegetarian) at on-site Saloon restaurant, I was treated to vocals by a talented local duo singing “You are My Sunshine,” loud and proud. I called it a night, climbing listlessly into my bed with a brass headboard, cozy quilt, and framed artwork of the Wyoming landscape hanging above.

Day two: Buffalo to Sheridan

• Driving distance: 87 miles
• Total drive time: 1.5 hours

With a belly full of cinnamon roll French toast from Buffalo’s Busy Bee Cafe, I started day two of my Wyoming road trip bound for the town of Sheridan. But on the way, I planned to stop for a long hike in the stunning Tongue River Canyon, about an hour from Buffalo.

Driving down the dirt road to the trailhead, I was in awe of the jagged cliffs towering above me. The sky was a brilliant blue shining above the dark green forest. Donning my hydration backpack and bear bell — though I wished I’d brought bear spray —  I grabbed my hiking poles and set off on my first solo hike in the remote wilderness.

The trail paralleled the Tongue River, providing a calming soundtrack for my hike. My mind flip-flopped between focusing on the sense of grandeur the landscape provoked, and a tinge of fear. “What the hell would I do if I encountered a bear? Or some weirdo hiding in the woods?” I wondered. “There’s no one out here to save me.” I reminded myself to breathe, and even with my “fight-or-flight” reflexes in a constant battle, the beauty of nature inspired me to trot on, finishing the four-mile hike with a sense of accomplishment – and only a tinge of disappointment that I had no one to share it with.

Before I left, I sat at a picnic table overlooking the river and scribbled in my journal some ideas about how to live more mindfully.

Downtown Sheridan, Wyoming. Photo: Sandra Foyt /Shutterstock

After hiking, I drove on to Sheridan, where I’d booked a fly-fishing class. Wyoming is the least populated state in the US, but Sheridan is used to seeing its fair share of tourists as it’s the midpoint between Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park. After a quick lunch, I headed to the Fly Shop of the Bighorns to meet my fishing guide from Rock Creek Anglers, who outfitted me with waders, a pole and some synthetic flies.

We headed to nearby Piney Creek, where I learned how to find the perfect fly-fishing spot: not too deep or too shallow, with water that isn’t running too fast or slow. As a first-time fly fisher, the intricacies of the flies impressed me. My guide’s tackle box overflowed with colorful creatures mimicking bugs the fish would normally eat.

After learning the basics and watching my guide (and sixth-grade teacher) Scott Schroder whip the line, I waded in and tried the same thing. No luck. Schroder kept urging me, suggesting “Use your elbow, not your wrist.” Though I didn’t catch “the big one” (or even a little one, for that matter), I did enjoy the beauty of the area, getting to chat with Schroder, and learning the subtleties of fly fishing. We even saw a mink in the wild.

My bed for that night was at the Historic Sheridan Inn , a registered National Historic Landmark with the National Park Service, founded in 1893 to service those traveling west by train. My room was named after Queen Victoria, a known fan of Buffalo Bill’s “Wild West Show.”

Day three: Sheridan to Lovell

• Driving distance: 148 miles
• Total drive time: 3 hours

On day three, I headed to what ended up being my favorite part of my Wyoming road trip: the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Byway . This steep, two-lane road is one of the steepest in the country , passing through the Bighorn National Forest in the Bighorn Mountains, and moose and pronghorns moseyed across the road in front of me several times. The highest point (9,430 feet in elevation) was still covered in snow in early June, and overlooked the stunning Big Horn Basin below, like a painting with muted hues of green, red, yellow, blue and gray.

My next stop was Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Center in Lovell to search for wild mustangs in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. I went out with the center’s Executive Director Nancy Cerroni, putting her Jeep to the test on the red, rugged, and rocky road through the Martianesque landscape of the wild horse range. Thanks to Ceronni’s knowledge, we encountered more than a dozen of the nearly 200 majestic mustangs who live in the area. Along the way, I learned about the history, markings, coloring, behaviors, plight, and politics around the horses.

Photo: Christy berry /Shutterstock

With a population of about 2,405, Lovell does not have many options for dining or accommodations. But there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities in the area, including lots of hiking trails in Bighorn Canyon. I spent the afternoon searching for trailheads off Highway 37 – the Sykes Mountain Trail is one of the more popular — but I struggled on my own to find the trailheads. Instead, I drove to Devil Canyon Overlook in Montana, which blew me away.

From the top of the 1,000-foot-tall cliffs, I peered down into the horseshoe bend of the canyon where the Bighorn River flowed silently below. I took my time meandering quietly on the short loop trail, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the landscape, which I had all to myself. It was the perfect place to pull up a seat on a bench and jot some thoughts in my journal.

Photo: Alberto Loyo /Shutterstock

After hiking, I returned to Lovell and checked into my last stay of my Wyoming road trip, at the boutique Horseshoe Bend Motel . Owner Bobbi McJunkin took over the hotel from her father and gave it a modern facelift.

As a solo female traveler, I was a bit unnerved to notice the group of men staying in the room next to me hanging out and drinking beers in the parking lot. In my room, I hurriedly pulled the blinds closed and locked the door. But around 9 PM, I was startled by a knock on my door from McJunkin. It turns out I had left my key on the outside of my door, and the guys next door had kindly asked McJunkin to let me know.

Day four: Lovell to Cody

• Driving distance: 46 miles
• Total drive time: 50 minutes

After a few days of solitude, surrounded by the beauty of nature and wildlife, I started the journey back to Cody to head home and stopped at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. I was out of time, but if I’d been able to squeeze in another hike, I would have hired a hiking guide to show me some of the local trails around Cody. They’re a good option for solo travelers who don’t want to hike alone.

On the drive back, I reminisced about the stunning scenery and interesting people I met along the way. The trip gave me insight into a cowboy-focused, outdoor culture I hadn’t experienced, and let me peek into what small town life is like – quite different from my home in LA. The experience made me realize that many people pass through these small towns on the way to do or see something else, but don’t realize that the towns, and the history and experiences in them, are worth stopping in their own right.

While initially hesitant to take the Wyoming road trip alone, it gave me the time and bandwidth not only for self-reflection, but for seeing the state on my own terms. I stopped when and where I wanted, and got to have one-on-one conversations with guides and small-business owners. It gave me a few days to focus just on myself – and the courage to hit the open road solo again next time.

What to pack for a solo road trip

If you’re planning on setting off on a solo, contemplative journey in an off-the-beaten-path location, you’ll want to do some pre-planning. Here’s what I found came in handy while spending long hours on the road in remote locations.

• An inspirational audio book
• A sing-along playlist (downloaded)
• A journal and pen; maybe even colored pencils for sketching
• Lots of water and snacks
• Map and printed directions
• First-aid kit
• Charged portable power bank
• Health insurance card
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat

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Solo Road Trip: Hiking in South Florida

South Florida is certainly known for bustling beaches and water activities, but there are also great trails for hiking in South Florida.

With international travel slowed down, the great outdoors is having its moment in the sun to remind us of the natural beauty that lies right in our own backyards.

I’m so happy to partner with Campspot , the largest online marketplace for RV resorts, family campgrounds, cabins, glamping options, to celebrate National Take a Hike Day, November 17, 2020! Accommodations were provided in exchange for my honest review of the property. Full disclosures

While many places in the U.S. are lamenting the coming of winter because it means less agreeable weather for outdoor activities, as a Florida resident I’m rejoicing for milder temperatures, less humidity, and the ability to take a hike without feeling like I’m walking inside a toaster oven.

For my Take a Hike getaway I decided I would finally take this chance to explore Everglades National Park.

Campspot was the perfect resource to help me find a home base for my adventure that would provide comfort and accessibility to some of the best trails for hiking in South Florida .

My Campspot Accommodations

For this trip, location was key. Everglades National Park is a far trek to the southernmost part of mainland Florida so I needed to be in the Naples or Miami area. I typed in Everglades National Park in my search on the Campspot site and found an adorable deluxe cottage in Club Naples RV Resort.

This a departure from the type of accommodations I would have normally searched for. It’s not a traditional campground or a rental home or a hotel. This property was in an RV park which I would have normally never even looked at since I’m not an RV user. I had no idea many RV resorts also have rental homes.

The cottage is a manufactured home, so this was a first for me. It was such a pleasant experience. The home itself was adorable inside. I loved the front porch to sit out in the early morning breeze and listen to the woodpecker in the distance.

It was fully furnished with flat-screen televisions with cable in the living room and bedroom, dining table, spacious bathroom, air conditioning, plenty of storage space, and a good amount of countertop space in the kitchen area.

The kitchen had a toaster, modern appliances, blender, cutlery, dishes and dish soap. There was everything one could need for their stay.

As for COVID-19 procedures, the office and community require masks in all indoor areas and outdoor areas that are close proximity to people. They also use EPA-registered disinfectant products   to sanitize the home before your arrival. To my great pleasure, they also left disinfectant in the home for you. Of course I brought my own, per usual to do my wipe down of all touch surfaces and spray the vents.

The resort had a pool and hot tub and other outdoor recreation games that cater to the older crowd.

The neighborhood was quiet and seemed to be mostly long term residents or extended stay travelers. Everyone was extremely friendly and waved but not overtly nosy which is my kind of place.

I also often have to consider how I will be perceived in a space like this as a solo Black female traveler. At Club Naples RV Resort, I felt like I was just another traveler. I never got a look or a question that I sometimes get of “what are you doing here”. I must say that it was refreshing.

Hiking in South Florida Itinerary

The proximity to the Everglades and other nearby South Florida hiking trails is why I chose this location. It was 2 and half hours from my cottage to the Everglades NP Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. I chose to make my first full day my long day.

Because Hurricane Eta had just passed through a few days prior to my trip, some of the areas of the park had not reopened yet due to lingering high water but there was still plenty that I was able to do. The Mahogany Hammock Trail was a nice shaded hike along a boardwalk and I also did the Guy Bradley Trail along Flamingo Bay. I couldn’t get to the famed Ahinga Trail but it is one that is popular in this section of the park.

The highlight was seeing saltwater American crocodiles for the first time and really being able to see up close how they differ from the American alligators that I see all the time elsewhere in Florida.

I also took a private pontoon boat tour through the backwaters of the mangroves and out to the 2nd largest body of water in Florida, Whitewater Bay.

In the late afternoon, I realized when I was routing myself back to the cottage that I was only 20 minutes from another national park!! Biscayne National Park was literally up the road so I decided to extend my day and go check it out.

I’m so glad I did! While most of the activities for this park are boating activities, they do have a nice trail along the water behind the visitor center. It took me along the shores and then over a footbridge to the most wondrous and magical trail along a jetty. This is exactly the kind of trail that makes hiking in South Florida so different from anywhere else in the country.

On my 3rd day after checking out in mid-morning, I headed to Collier-Seminole State Park which was just 16 miles from the resort. This is a loop trail that really shows the variety of Florida nature. This trail was shaded most of the way with gumbo-limbo trees all along the path. It was a little muddy and wet before getting to the boardwalk portion but I didn’t let that stop me. This area is known for Florida panthers but I didn’t see any or any paw prints, thankfully.

Next, I headed 3 miles down the road to Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge. This is also part of the Everglades. This was another easy trail with a footbridge and an observation tower with awe-inspiring views. If you’re a bird lover, this is a hike to add to your list.

For my last stop of the day I headed to Everglades City to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center entrance. The most popular activity here is a boat tour through Ten Thousand Islands. There isn’t a hiking trail here persay, but you can walk along past the dock to the edge of the marsh and take in scenic views of the pelicans feasting in the bay.

Plan Your Next Adventure

So are you inspired to plan your next outdoor adventure getaway to celebrate National Take a Hike Day?

With pet-friendly options, cabins, glamping, treehouses, tent camp locations, and RV parks, Campspot can help you find just the right accommodations you need to fit the needs of your next great outdoor getaway.

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Single mom who loves outdoor adventure, unique travel, foodie adventures, and theme parks in Florida and beyond.

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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

(Getty Images) |

From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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• Travel recommendations
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• Travel experiences

The 15 best solo trips in the US according to KAYAK data

Throughout my years of experience as a travel journalist – more often than not relying on myself to navigate the world of airports, hotels and new cities – I’ve found that some destinations are better suited for solo travel than others. 

My evidence certainly veers more qualitative, but it’s also mirrored by a recent solo travel and dining research from KAYAK and OpenTable . Below, learn more about the 15 best solo trips in the US, ranked based on data from KAYAK and OpenTable.

Best places to travel alone in the US

• Washington, D.C
• Salt Lake City
• Philadelphia
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco

1. Washington, D.C

According to KAYAK’s Solo Travel and Dining Guide, the best place to vacation by yourself in the US is Washington, D.C. With highly walkable neighborhoods and easily navigable public transportation, D.C. is the best East Coast city for those traveling on their own. Before your trip, I recommend thoughtfully mapping out all of the sights, museums, restaurants, and areas you’re hoping to see.

If you plan your route efficiently, you can check off most of the top cultural destinations and iconic D.C. experiences within a short weekend. The National Mall, for example, is home to several must-see attractions, like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Plus, it’s completely free to explore. 

When you’re in a place as dynamic as Boston, it’s often easier to explore solo than with someone by your side. You can visit all of the top tourist attractions – including the Freedom Trail, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Public Garden and Boston Common – without slowing down for a fellow traveler or discussing what to do next.

If taking in all of Beantown’s historical sights solo gets old after a day or two, consider booking a guided tour of the Freedom Trail , a seat on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour , or a whale-watching cruise . The Seaport District and Harvard’s campus are also two of my favorite areas to leisurely wander on a nice day . 

City escapes are inherently solo traveler-friendly, and Chicago is no different. The Windy City features more than its fair share of amazing architecture, world-class museums, green parks and award-winning restaurants – and none of it requires a travel partner. If you’re hoping to plan your adventure around Chicago’s notorious snowstorms and less-than-perfect weather, book your trip during the summer.

This will allow for ample opportunity to explore some of the gorgeous lakefront neighborhoods, including Lincoln Park, Hyde Park and The Loop. The summer also gives way to can’t-miss outdoor events like the Millennium Park Summer Music Series, boat cruises on Lake Michigan and watching fireworks from Navy Pier. 

Given the fact that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the US , flights to A-Town typically fall on the more affordable side – depending on where you’re flying from, of course. Consider this permission to spend a little more on your accommodations.

There’s nothing as luxurious as a solo night in a five-star hotel – with room service, a hot shower and a cozy bathrobe – and Atlanta has some of the most glamorous guest experiences in the South. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, you can’t go wrong with either the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta or The St. Regis Atlanta .  

5. Salt Lake City

A magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and snow chasers, the capital of Utah places visitors directly in the foothills of the Wasatch mountain range. If you’re planning to take advantage of the surrounding hiking trails and ski slopes, follow best solo travel practices, like ensuring someone you trust has your location. Salt Lake City also has a bunch of other cultural attractions that cater to individual travelers, including the Natural History Museum of Utah , the Clark Planetarium and The Leonardo Museum .

Solo travelers who consider themselves extroverts and night owls should add Tampa to their bucket list. Located in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Cigar City is a colorful metropolis where celebration, creativity and cultural diversity thrive.

During the day, explore Busch Gardens Tampa Bay , Lowry Park Zoo or Cypress Point Park . After the sun goes down, make your way to the Tampa Riverwalk . Controlled by security, this is a great, safe option for solo travelers who want to participate in Tampa’s nightlife or sip a few cocktails while taking in the city skyline and water views. 

7. Philadelphia

There’s a certain sense of freedom that comes with solo travel, so where better to experience that feeling than in the birthplace of American Independence? As someone who lived in Philadelphia for several years, I can say that the City of Brotherly Love is filled with endless activities and delicious meals that can be thoroughly enjoyed on your own.

Don’t miss a meander through Reading Terminal Market , and save a few hours in your day for the Mütter Museum , the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum . Just be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as many of Philly’s top tourist neighborhoods – Center City, Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West and Old City – are best explored on foot. 

Best for those who can swing an extended visit, the Emerald City has an impressive list of cultural, culinary, and outdoor recreation opportunities. To narrow down the options, spend at least a day museum hopping; don’t miss the Museum of Pop Culture , the Seattle Art Museum or the Museum of Flight .

The next morning, focus on finding all the most delectable bites in Seattle (Pike Place Market is the best place to start). And before you leave town, paddle a kayak on Lake Union or hike some of the trails in Discovery Park. With a schedule as packed as this one, you’ll hardly notice the lack of a travel companion. 

9. Los Angeles

For many travelers, Los Angeles is high on their list of best vacation spots , thanks to its warm weather and beach access. It’s also ideal for solo travel – whether you plan to spend your alone time soaking up the sun by a pool, shopping in The Grove or hiking in Runyon Canyon Park.

Remember, though, Los Angeles is a spread-out city, and your exact experience will vary based on which neighborhood you’re staying in and what you plan on doing. In my experience, Downtown (DTLA) and Santa Monica are both extremely walkable and your best bet if you’re traveling alone.

10. New York City

When I moved to New York City for my first job after college, I spent every free moment I had exploring the boroughs – most of the time, on my own and with affordability in mind. During those years, I discovered that, while NYC rent and real estate prices are high, this is also a destination with top-tier public transportation and a host of affordable cultural activities .

Budget-conscious solo travelers can walk around Central Park, ride the Staten Island ferry (passing the Statue of Liberty) and visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where admission is granted on a “pay what you want” basis. If museums strike your fancy, check out all of NYC’s best museums , many of which are free on certain days. 

Similarly to Salt Lake City, Denver calls to solo travelers who crave adventure – but you don’t necessarily need to head out on the trail alone. There are a variety of groups, tours and events that serve as a way for travelers to connect with fellow visitors and the local community. I suggest checking out BIPOC Mountain Collective on Facebook and Meetup .

Another thing to be aware of is Denver’s general size. When I first visited the Mile-High City on my own, I was a bit intimidated by how spread out it is. You can avoid that sense of overwhelmingness , by booking a hotel downtown, an area that is more compact and incredibly walkable. 

Austin may not have a reputation for affordability – its cost of living is relatively high – but there are many ways for solo travelers to visit without breaking the bank. To save a few dollars, avoid traveling to Austin during major events and festivals (like SXSW and Austin City Limits) when hotel prices will skyrocket.

You can also keep yourself busy with Austin’s impressive roster of free or affordable things to do. Take a free tour of the Texas State Capitol, lounge in Zilker Park, or pay the small entrance fee (around $9) to take a dip in the refreshing Barton Springs Pool.

13. San Francisco

San Francisco is a mecca for foodies – even those who are traveling solo. In fact, when you’re by yourself, you never have to compromise on what you want to eat. If you’re craving a sweet treat, help yourself to the Ghirardelli’s Hot Fudge Sundae .

If you’re in the mood for James Beard award-winning delicacies – and you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation – the team at State Bird Provisions will leave you dreaming of their creations long after you’ve returned home. And if you’d like to pair a glass of wine with a good book? Head to Cultivar . 

Dallas has one of the most underrated art scenes in the US, and the city has a range of museums and galleries to add to a solo itinerary. Many are also easy to find and relatively close to one another. If you can, book a hotel near the Dallas Art District (DAD), the largest contiguous urban arts district in the US.

Here, you’ll be able to pop into the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, the Crow Museum of Asian Art and the Meyerson Symphony Center. You can also check out DAD’s website to see which exciting events and programs align with your trip dates.

15. Houston

Houston, Texas rounds out KAYAK and Open Table’s list of best solo trips in the US. As in most larger cities, safety can be a concern at night but, for the most part, solo travelers can feel at ease visiting Space City’s tourist attractions and downtown areas.

These include kayaking along the Buffalo Bayou Waterway, checking out the Houston Graffiti Building , watching a performance at the Miller Outdoor Theatre and hiking around the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center . Houston’s food scene also comes heavily recommended. Stop by Villa Arcos for the breakfast tacos and Henderson & Kane General Store for Texas barbecue and a curated selection of groceries.  

Looking for more solo trips and tips? Check out the KAYAK and OpenTable’s solo travel and dining guide.

A total of 15 cities have been selected based on the largest share of solo travel searches made on KAYAK.com and the share of solo dining at OpenTable restaurants. 

The solo travel share has been identified based on the hotel searches for one person conducted from the 1st January 2024 to 30th June 2024 for the travel period between the 7th January 2024 and 30th November 2024.

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