Be prepared for wilderness disasters
@blackhikingqueen
HIKING SOLO TIPS (save and share this). Hiking solo can be daunting especially when it’s your first time. These are some things that work for me while hiking solo… 1.Check the trail conditions. I use the AllTrails App (@alltrails ) I check it before I get out there to make sure I know where I’m going exactly, trail conditions and to download the trail map to help me navigate when necessary. I also read reviews about the trail especially if it’s a new one so I can have an idea of what to expect ✨Know before you go. Know everything you can about where you are going, the trail conditions and the weather as much as possible so you are best prepared 2. Let someone know where you’re hiking 3. Carry the essentials including water, a first aid kit and some form of protection – I like carrying pepper spray and a whistle. I also consider what items I have that could serve as a safety tool as well. 4. Trust your instincts. There have been times I just wasn’t feeling the trail and decided to turn around. If I’m not feeling it, I just leave. Better safe than sorry, the trails will still be there. 5. Start small and build as you go; consider starting at a familiar place so that you’re more comfortable Have you been on a solo hike before? Drop a comment below with your hiking solo tip. #solohiker #hikingsolo #hikingchick #hikerchick #blackpeoplewhohike #hiking101 #hikingisfun #traveladventures #hikinglessons #hikingtips #womenwhohike #womenwhotravel #femalehikers #hikingsafety #safetyontrails #hikingalone #solotravel #blackpeoplewhohike #melaninbasecamp #optoutside #hikingcolorado #colorado #rockymountainnationalpark #rockymountainpark #coloradorockies #hikingcolorado #hikingadventures #blackpeoplewhohike #ouzelfalls #foryou #foryourpage #hikingtiktok #hikingtiktokadventures #traveltiktok
♬ original sound – Tank the GSD
A sudden storm, a wrong turn on a trail, an ankle sprain — accidents and unfortunate surprises are a very real part of hiking, and while you can’t predict every possible mishap, you can at least prepare yourself with a few basic safety tips. First, a TikToker who goes by Black Hiking Queen suggests checking trail conditions and local weather forecasts thoroughly before heading out. If, for instance, your planned trail is flooded, choose an alternate path or postpone your hike until another day.
Black Hiking Queen also says to always pack the essentials, including food and water (bring enough for at least two days, in case you get stranded) and a hiking first aid kit. Kits can be assembled from scratch, as creator Anna Explores did. Be sure to pack gauze, alcohol pads, wrap, antibiotic ointments, pain relievers, and treatments for any insects or plants (such as poison ivy) that are pervasive in your area.
Finally, remember that many trails are shared with wildlife, including bears and other predators. A TikToker and hiking guide with the handle @groundupadventures suggests making noise while walking to deter nearby animals.
Know how to defend yourself
@madeleinewilsonphoto
How do you protect yourself when hiking and camping alone? Here are my self-defense gear alternatives to a firearm that can help keep you safe outdoors alone. 🌶️ Pepper gel ⚡️ Taser (check local laws on this one) 🔪 Pocket kn!fe 🐻 Bear spray 📡 GPS device However, gear can only do so much. Here are a few other pieces of advice for women and non-binary folk adventuring alone outdoors: 1. TRUST YOUR GUT! If your gut is telling you something is unsafe or sketchy, listen to it. Even if it means your plans are ruined. Most likely, your gut is correct. Trust it. 2. Stay alert. Don’t be looking at your phone or your map for too long. Keep your music low and only use one headphone if you have them. 3. Make your presence know. Make eye contact with people when you pass them on the trial. Let them know that YOU see THEM. And can identify them later if needed. 4. Let someone know where you are and where you plan on being back at all times. Even if it’s just a short walk. Someone you trust should know when to expect you home safely and what to do if you don’t. I could make a whole video series on this honestly, so let me know if you have more questions. It’s a scary world out there. Know that whatever happens to you, it’s not your fault. These tips just help you feel a little more prepared and give you more of a fighting chance should something happen. #solocamping #solohiking #hikingtips #campingtips Keywords: hiking advice, hiking tips, camping advice, camping tips, self defense, self defense gear, personal protecting, solo female camping, solo female hiker, outdoor safety
♬ Little Girl Gone – CHINCHILLA
If you scroll through TikTok’s solo hiking content, you’ll likely notice that the majority of creators are women offering advice on how to protect yourself against other hikers. Regardless of your gender, being alone on the trails could make you a target for unsavory characters who might have sinister motives. Therefore, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and know how to defend yourself if needed.
In her video, Abby Joselyn notes that she never wears headphones while hiking so she can remain fully aware of her surroundings. Eliminating music and other distractions could help you act quickly if you sense something unusual in your environment.
Another creator who goes by @madeleinewilsonphoto shares the self-defense gear she keeps on hand in case she runs into a potential threat. Her items include a small canister of pepper gel, a taser (which she notes may not be legal to carry in all places), a pocket knife, and bear spray. While you may not need to pack every tool she does, having one or two items that you’re comfortable using in an emergency could make all the difference.
