Do those who fail to complete the Appalachian Trail who begin with the intention of doing it fall into a solo mentality or are they more likely to fall into a companion hike category. IOW does the concept of having a friend who gives assistance help or is the temptation to take a zero more times than necessary come from having a friend drag a hiker away from the trail? Does a solo hiker have more resolve to complete a hike or is the loneliness of the long distance hiker detrimental?
Skylander
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What are you talking about?
People hike to hike, to explore and to be in the woods. We all have to find what it is that we’re looking for or looking to do, and unless we’re unhappy with what we’re doing, other peoples influence is just suggestive.
I’ve now hiked the AT, PCT, and CDT (and other shorter trails) and I’ve always gone it alone. Not that I don’t hike with others, but when you’re alone you only have to keep you happy, with miles, town stops, days off, ect.
A hiking partner will come into your life at times and fall out at others, it just depends on what one wishes of themselves.
A trail like the AT is great for a solo-hiker because of the group of other solo artists around him/her.
As you progress with your personal comfort with the woods you don’t mind being alone for long derations of time. This year on the CDT I’ve travels a month at a time with out seeing anyone on trail, I go to town and meet folks for social stim., and then return to the trek.
Just keep in mind that the woods and trail life molds you into a new person. A more insightful one who wishes to share and finds peace in alone time as well.
And to finish my ramble, having a friend around is always a wonderful thing, alot of us need some one to distract us away from hiking at times to keep a balance between hike time and town/down time. What I mean is temptation is GOOD!:cheers
Goof