[dicentra]

After I broke up with my boyfriend my dad (who is kinda old-fashioned about some things and loves me very much ) went through a VERY long "you need a man to take care of you..." stage BAH! I've taken to not telling him about solo hikes until I get back. He doesn't freak out that way. He always feels better even if its "just another girl going with me." SHEESH! If I'm talking to him and still walking, everything is okay. (dad's one of my best hiking buddies btw)

[MCaver]

I'm surprised at how few people -- male or female -- are afraid to hike alone, or even drive. When I talk about my frequent hikes and roadtrips at work, the first question I always get is "You went by yourself?!", as if it's completely unfathomable. And this is from 20- and 30-somethings. Damn right I went by myself! It looks like it's contagious, too. My mom's in her mid-50s and up until I moved here from Texas a few years ago she'd never think of doing things like that by herself. Now just a few years later, she's making annual solo roadtrips across the country to visit, each time checking out a different area. This year is Yosemite and the redwoods.

[dicentra]

I decided about a year or so ago that I was going to do the things that I wanted to do (not just hiking), even if that meant that sometimes doing it alone. Know what? I have a lot more fun and get to do a lot more things now! And solo hiking is great! You get your own schedule, see more wildlife, get to stop when you want, no compromises (except with yourself).

[MCaver]

Excellent attitude! I have things I want to do, and if I can get someone to do them with me, then great. But I'm not going to let it stop me if I can't! There are times even when I prefer to go alone, purely because of the freedom to change my plans at the last minute, or do something crazy...like spend sunrise and sunset for 3 days in a row at the Painted Hills in hopes of getting at least one sunbreak for photos. I'd never do that!

[Backpacker Joe]

Hiking alone is certainly better than not going at all! I've done so many solo hikes I couldn't count them. That said, going (read sharing) with someone, or a few people is BETTER! TB

[tasslehouf]

A female friend of mine suggests using a good sports bra and loose fitting tee shirts. That should take away the chafing. However in my opinion I don't know how well that'd do for moisture management but as long as you're not too concerned about that it shouldn't matter. I once had a water bottle on the front strap of my pack and with every step it'd pinch my nipple slightly. I guess this might be ok if I were female however it just made me sleepy. I have weird reactions I suppose.

[McPilchuck]

What can I say...I like seeing women in halter tops. I'd be a liar if I said I didn't... McPil

[Backpacker Joe]

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA men to that one McPil!!! TB