Can solos find hiking buddies?

imported
#1

While I understand it’s pretty easy to find a long- or short-term hiking companion on the AT, what are the odds of that happening on the JMT?

JD

#2

I’m curious about this question too…

and I’m curious as to when you’re going, I’m heading out August 13, and plan to finish August 31.

I think it might be harder on the JMT, because often people are just on a vacation from work, so the timing is a lot less fluid - I couldn’t keep up with someone who wanted to do 20 mile days (compared to my required 12 mile days).

But maybe you can find people to hike with just for a day or two and then part ways?

Sophie

Sophie

#3

I hike solo. I enjoy the company of others, however, on the trail. That is something learned since I am normally reserved. I don’t, for instance, chat with whom I sit on airplanes. The rule is simple, if you want to hike with someone, those people will magically appear. It is a matter of attitude. If you really want to hike with someone, it will happen. Meeting persons is simple, just make eye contact, smile and speak first. Common courtesy prevails, pushy or odd behavior fails.

On the JMT hiking rate enters into the equation. The trick is to think in terms of a hiking cluster. A certain number will by moving over the trail in a given time. Some will be fast, some will be slow. Some will be head down full steam ahead and others will do side trails all the way. If you are moving within a cluster, you will link up with more than one person. You may not settle on just one person but a group of persons.

The most important issue on the JMT is fording. If solo, and the water crossing is forbidding, doubtful or whatever, stop and wait for someone to come along.

Clark Fork in Western Montana “Where Seldom is Heard a Discouraging Word.”

Clark Fork

#4

Hydro Heidi wrote a worthy JMT Trail Journal from 2005. In this journal she mentioned hiking with several. I think you can get the feel for meeting others on the trail from her journal.

Of course, your pack is a fine companion. I finally settled on a Trail Name for my ULA Catalyst. My trail companion is “Matt” as in Matt Drudge. So on the JMT I will trudge with Drudge. I hope he can keep up. So far he is always behind but seems to be gaining.

What trail name have you given your pack?

Clark Fork, on Friday in Western Montana on the eve of leaving for the JMT. Trail Permit July 27.

Clark Fork

#5

:lol Matt Drudge
Seems to be gaining weight now huh?

July to Sept 15 most park rangers report 50 to 60 backpackers a day on the JMT tapers off some a lot in the fall but still used in winter as well.

From reading others journals, your companions come and go…maybe that is a good thing:D

AlohaTink

#6

I hiked solo NOBO last year and liked it. However, I knew that I would see many people hiking SOBO throughout the day. That fact entered into my planning if anything would happen to me while hiking (ie falling). However, I must say that camping with a group of people was nice. I only camped by myself four nights, and the other seven were at very popular locations. These locations had anywhere from one person to twenty people. I think it’s a personal decision, based upon your mental strength, current physical condition, and overall attitude and aptitude.

TRIHIKER

#7

I just got off the JMT and there are plenty of people out there. Maybe not as many as the AT, but I ran into many of the same people throughout the trip.

The advice on fords is well worth noting. The rivers/streams are high and fast right now due to snow melt. Bear Creek was particularly sketchy for me. Take your time to look around for a safer spot, wait for another hiker - or cross in early morning.

Tumblina

#8

Between the pacing resupplies and short distance I think finding a buddy on the trail might be difficult.

As Clarke states it may be a matter of attitude and putting yourself out there a little.

My brother and I will be hiking the trail pretty slowly starting from Reds meadow on August 19th. If you see us on the trail feel free to introduce yourself. We look alot alike and some take us for twins. I peronally don’t mind if people drop by our campsite to say hello or share our fire or whatever however I have always been reluctant to impose on others assuming they might want some solitude. Its a little tricky i guess.
:cheers

jalanjalan