Is it safe to hike alone?

Question

In August I'm going to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and I plan on hiking part of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail but I’m having second thoughts now because I was reading about Shenandoah and there’s been a lot of murders on the trail, including a really nasty one in the late 90’s that got a lot of media attention. It suggest to have a hiking partner on the website but none of my friends can come because they’re working and it’s my only week off this summer. I would feel safer if I could bring a gun, but Department of the Interior doesn’t allow guns in any of the parks … so much for the second amendment *rolls eyes*

I really want to go because I haven't been on a vacation in a long time and I love nature, but I don't want to feel scared. Is it too dangerous to go alone?

Answer 1

The AT is very popular place to hike. I would think that after a day or two of hiking you will meet other people on the trail that you will "buddy up". My advise is go and enjoy yourself. I bet you will have the time of your life and meet some very interesting people.

Because you are hiking on trail - your chances of injury are much less. This is assuming you are in relatively good shape to start out with. Don't forget some good maps and leave a detailed itenary with friends. I would also look into investing in the SPOT locator beacons. It sends an e-mail to friends with you GPS location. However the reciever is not as sensitive as some of the GPS units you can buy - so it may not get a signal out in areas of high tree coverage.

Answer 2

It is not safe to hike alone not just for other predators but for your sake as well.  If you fell and injured your leg or foot and could not walk how would you get help?  Cell phones do not always work in the middle of the wilderness.  I have been pondering the same thing hiking the appalachain trail but I have the same problem with people to go.  I would not recommend hiking by yourself even if you do have protection.  I know it's not what you want to hear but be safe.

Answer 3

only if you have a 12'' KABAR on you there could be bears or people

Answer 4

no,don't go hiking by yourself there's alot of crazys these days.always take a buddy or two.i have done that section of the trail it's pretty views &everything but don't go without a buddy!

Answer 5

I might not run into the same problems as you are concerned with as I am not female, but I do a lot of hiking by myself out here in the Northwest.  One thing I always do is leave the place I'm going and my expected return time with someone I know in case an emergency occurs.  A few years ago I went with a few friends in some poor conditions and ended up dislocating my shoulder on an icy slope.  They were with me at the time for assistance but otherwise I could have been in bad shape as it was 3 miles back to the car in freezing weather with steep slick footing.  If I had done that without knowing where I was going then I hate to think what could have happened.  The other main thing is to bring extra food, clothing, water, and other gear such as a whistle or a signal mirror and map and compass in case you do get hurt or stranded.  Too many people don't bring the necessities and often have to fight out bitter nights if an emergency occurs.  You can never be too prepared.

Answer 6

Perhaps I'm naive but I'm rarely fearful. I live in a relatively large city (300k+) and have no qualms walking around at night alone (unarmed). I don't do it on a regular basis but I have never let fear stop me from getting where I need to go.

We've all heard the stories of girls being targeted while hiking alone but if you let all the "what if's" stop you from living and enjoying a normal life, you'll end up 60 some years old and never leaving the house.

Sucks you can't carry a handgun there but I'm sure they didn't outlaw oleoresin capsicum spray (or pepper spray). While this isn't a lethal weapon, it should give you enough time to book it out of harms' way. Or a carrying a nicely sized rock? lol

Let someone you know where exactly you're going to be like the specific trail or area. Also, keep a cell phone (although I'm not entirely sure you'll get much reception out there) and your ID on you at all times. That way, worst case scenario, authorities can ID you.

Answer 7

well, if there is a bad history behind it, I suggest you don't go. :O