Solo backpackers ???

[KSB209]

Yeah my wife and my dad tell me all the time it's not safe to go out by myself but with my schedule I don't always have a hunting partner so I go by myself. Usually I make it back to my truck and sleep inside or in the bed of the truck. How many of you go on backpack trips by yourself?
I sort of find it peaceful by myself in the woods even if it isn't "safe" but that's me. Some might find it boring but one thing I like is watching the sunrise and sun set over the mountains

 

[Stammster]

Your family will worry less if you tell them you're with your 2 buddies:
1.) Garmin InReach
2.) Smith & Wesson

 

[catamountsierra]

Seconded... InReach seems more reliable than even the full satphones I have used for work. Battery life is pretty decent too, and easily recharged. Yes, there are additional risks going alone, but most can be mitigated, and even going with a bunch of others is no absolute guarantee of safety.

 

[KSB209]

Yup I have a SPOT device that I can use in case an emergency and typically carry a 10mm along with rifle or bow. Always have extra food, water, supplies when I head out but if I'm planning on making it back to the truck at night I don't carry shelter or bag with me all day.

 

[Quintus]

I love hunting with the kids (all adults now) and friends but my solo back pack hunts are the highlight of my year. I don't agree that it's not safe, but the fact that it's not AS safe is part of the excitement. It causes you to think things out a little more. Watch what your doing a little closer. Life is no longer dangerous and I think solo hunts especially from a backpack out for multiples days helps satisfy my inner cave man.

 

[GW Hunter]

I do solo back pack hunts all the time. I make sure my friends know where I will be and I don't stray from that area. I take great care with literally every step. I broken ankle is not a good thing in the backcountry. I also use EXTREME caution when using a knife to gut and bone out any game. A knife wound would definitely be worse than a broken ankle...

 

[Deleted member 107796]

I won't trade the solo adventures I've had, for anything. EXTREME CAUTION is the key phrase as well as don't get yourself too deep in any situation, which requires more awareness. I am not a natural at directions so knowing where I am is critical also.

 

[Argon Glen]

Solo. Always solo. Satellite communications.

 

[KSB209]

Well I'm heading into the Sierras next week and looks like a solo trip. Hopefully I can post something with a dead animal in it.

 

[GW Hunter]

Well I'm heading into the Sierras next week and looks like a solo trip. Hopefully I can post something with a dead animal in it.

Good luck. Pretty dry out there right now. Send pictures

 

[bachekermooni]

I once bear hunted in northern MN, sleeping in the back of my explorer in the middle of the woods. I will not do it again. It was scary and self-assuring at the same time. This was before smart phones - only analog cell phones.

 

[27 Gap]

I'm going to second the InReach. Wife can ping you any time to see where you are and you can trade messages. (IIRC)

 

[Skimbleshanks]

To be completely honest going solo into a back country situation is kinda sketchy. That being said I go out solo and don't plan to stop now. Be prepared, slow down, think about what you're doing, and have fun. My quiet alone time in the woods is always precious. Getting back home is as well. This was my view for the evening.

 

[P7M13]

>50x solo, including ~10x in the snow.
Maybe 5 times with someone else.
When I climb, also solo.
90% off trail
Still on the razor's edge of winning at "playing stupid games."