For almost two decades, I’ve enjoyed regular hikes in the hills and mountains. My favourite country is Scotland, where we have an amazing freedom of access and many opportunities to walk off the beaten track. While I very much like hiking with friends, I have also learned the joys of solo adventures.
But it took me a long time to believe I was capable of hiking solo in the mountains. Here are 13 of the things I wish I'd known before hiking my first solo mountain. For many years, I didn’t believe I was capable of solo hiking.
My lack of confidence came from a decidedly unhelpful former partner who called me “navigationally challenged”. He believed I was incapable of using a map and compass and preferred to lead me on hikes in the hills and mountains. Back then, I was convinced that men were naturally better navigators and that women struggled to learn.
I was also a little frightened of being out in the hills and mountains on my own and this anxiety was increased thanks to many unhelpful male-dominated remarks. It took a relationship change and a beginners’ course in navigation skills – it was an all-female group – to stop listening to the doubters and discover that I am entirely capable of . I spent time with a new partner and friends who were all happy to discuss route finding choices as we hiked and, with time and a bit of effort, I have become a competent navigator.
In addition, spending time in the hills and mountains with other people showed me what an inclu.