Walking solo

Possibly one of the most controversial topics in bushwalking is whether to walk with a friend/group or brave it on your own.

Honestly some of the best walks I have done have been on my own. Its a greater risk but its also ten times more rewarding. Don't get me wrong I like walking with friends and have done many enjoyable walks with other people, but there's just that element of freedom when you're out there with no backup, no support and no one telling you what to do!

View from Wright's lookout, New England NP, NSW.

There are obvious downfalls to walking solo, here are some barriers I've encountered and my advice on walking safe on your own.

*Please note I'm not a professional and any advice I give is based on my own experiences walking alone.*

The biggest and best advice I can give is be prepared, know your limits and use common sense.

An injury could pose a huge problem if you're out on your own. If you are injured the chances of getting out alive are slim. Ok, its probably not that extreme but it just means you are your only help. A lot if the places I walk I may only see one other person the whole day, if that. So the solution is to be prepared and be cautious.

Don't ever stray off track on your own!! Why people would do this is beyond me, its the reason why you get lost. But also be aware that the track you're on may change quickly. At Point lookout in NSW I went for one of my best walks. It was the middle of winter and pine needles and leaves covered the track. I lost sight of the track a number of times and was lucky to not stray off and end up lost. The solution is to research the area you are walking and always carry a map and compass, and never go off track! Another option in case you do involuntarily stray is to have a personal locator beacon (PLB), it could save you life.

Track sign in New England NP, NSW.

Out in the bush there's usually no phone reception so if you're going on your own you need to let someone know at home your plans. This includes where you'll be walking i.e the exact track, how long it should take and what time to expect you home. And you need to stick to your plans for obvious reasons, you don't need a search party looking in the wrong place because you changed your mind at the last minute, or sent out unnecessarily because you didn't let anyone know you were going to be home late.

Watch the weather, not just on the day you plan to walk but in the lead up. You never know if the weather might take a turn for the worse. Be prepared for all conditions by bringing the right clothing and footwear. Also keep in mind where you will be walking and how the weather could affect the track i.e. a walk alongside a river could be prone to flash flooding or the track could be completely washed away.

Flooding at Turpins Falls, VIC. 

Know your limits. Realize that you may not be able to walk as far as you planned and head back if you need. No one's judging you on how far you walk, its better to head back and be safe than to walk the extra track that adds another 10km to your overall walk and results in you not being able to move for a week. Trust me I've done this and its not pleasant!! Also the further you go the more fatigued you become which could pose a huge risk when out on your own. If you're already tired and then become injured how are you going to make it back!!

Know the dangers in the area. Australia is vast and varying. The dangers vary greatly between states and even regions. Know the local wildlife that could pose a threat e.g wild boars, snakes and the elusive drop bear! Keep informed and stay safe.

Red-Bellied black snake in Victoria.

Basically only walk alone if you're confident of your survival skills and have researched or know the area well. If not walk with a friend or join a bushwalking club to gain experience.

Enjoy the great outdoors on your own with no restrictions and marvel at its beauty. You may even find some inner peace and enlightenment!

Stay safe!