What’s Really Holding Women Back from Solo Hiking (And How We Break Through It)
You may start the trail alone, but every step brings you closer to the strongest version of yourself.
I remember my first solo hike as if it were yesterday.
I had my backpack strapped, the AllTrails map downloaded, and pepper spray tucked in the side pocket. Still, my hands were shaking as I stepped onto the trail. Not because I wasn’t ready, but because I had been told, directly or indirectly, that I shouldn’t be doing this alone.
And yet, I kept walking. Because something inside me knew: this trail held a kind of power I hadn’t yet tapped into.
That’s the story for so many women. We want to hike solo—but we’ve also absorbed a lifetime of reasons not to. Let’s talk about what’s holding us back—and how to rise above it with preparation, support, and confidence.
1. Safety Concerns
This is always the first thing I hear. And it’s valid. When you’re alone, your mind can spiral into worst-case scenarios. But the truth is, being smart, alert, and prepared goes a long way in helping you feel empowered rather than anxious.
Here’s what I do before every solo hike:
🗺️ I download my maps in advance using AllTrails and Gaia GPS, especially if I’ll be in areas with little to no service.
📍 I share my plan with my husband and a trusted friend—my location, the trail I’m doing, my estimated return time, and a photo of where I parked.
🧭 I pack smart:
Whistle (3 short blasts = emergency signal)
Pepper spray or bear spray, depending on the area's wildlife or (hu-man😜). *Keep in mind that some National Parks do not allow Bear Spray.
Garmin inReach Mini or other personal locator beacon.
Backup battery and headlamp (always!)
Rain gear and, to be extra cautious, I keep an emergency blanket in my bag (not a real blanket).* Click the link to see what it is.
And last but not least, plenty of water and snacks.
👣 When I first started solo hiking, I started with popular trails. These gave me peace of mind while still allowing moments of solitude. Trust me: once you build that confidence, you’ll naturally seek quieter trails for more profound peace.
2. Limited Outdoor Knowledge
I didn’t grow up with topographic maps in my hands, and I’m guessing you didn’t either. But outdoor knowledge isn’t a one-time download—it’s something we build, little by little.
Learn trail ratings and how to read signs.
Watch YouTube tutorials on gear, navigation, and layering.
Practice using your compass or GPS app before you're deep in the woods.
The more you hike, the more this knowledge becomes second nature. It’s okay not to know everything upfront—none of us did.
3. Lack of Confidence
Confidence doesn’t arrive fully formed—it’s built through doing. And the key is to start small.
Choose short, well-marked hikes. Go during the day. Feel what it’s like to be with yourself in nature.
Each time you finish a hike solo, something inside you shifts. You prove to yourself that you can do hard things. Eventually, that confidence spills into other areas of your life, too.
4. Fear of Judgment
I used to cringe at the comments:
“You’re going alone?”
“Isn’t that dangerous?”
“That’s kind of selfish, don’t you think?”
But I’ve learned this: no one but you knows what you need to heal, grow, or reconnect. Some people need noise to heal, but I needed quiet.
I needed space to breathe, cry, talk to God, and just be. Hiking alone gave me that.
You don’t need to explain your “why” to anyone. It’s yours. Hold it close.
5. Lack of a Support System
When I first started, I only had a few female friends who liked doing this. It can feel lonely—even discouraging—when your circle doesn’t understand.
That’s why finding even one encouraging friend, joining a Facebook group, or following inspiring solo hikers on Instagram can make a difference. You can also create your own tribe, which is what I did. You will be surprised at how many are out there. So trust me, support is out there. And when you find it, the whole journey feels lighter.
6. Cultural Expectations
I was raised in a Hispanic household where girls weren’t encouraged to wander off into the woods, especially not alone.
But even as a kid, I was drawn to exploring. I’d sneak away sometimes without telling my parents (sorry, Mom!) because I felt this deep pull toward nature.
As women, we’re often told to stay small, safe, and close. But what if instead… we listened to that inner beacon, the one calling us to climb, explore, and discover? I followed it—and I haven’t looked back since.
7. Logistical Overwhelm
When you first start, everything from choosing the trail to figuring out what gear to bring can feel overwhelming. But just like everything else, it gets easier with time.
Here’s what helps me:
Use apps like AllTrails and Gaia GPS to find trails, read reviews, and download maps.
You can keep a checklist of what to pack (I have a go-to one for day hikes and another for overnights).
Prep the night before: Lay out your clothes, snacks, and gear so you won’t be rushed in the morning.
Every hike you plan makes the next one easier. Overwhelm shrinks when you take it step by step.
My Final Thoughts
You don’t need to wait until you’re fearless. You just need to be ready to say yes to yourself, your growth, and your wild.
Solo hiking isn’t just about getting to the summit. It’s about becoming someone who trusts her instincts, shows up for herself, and makes space to hear her own voice.
You’ve got this. And if you ever need someone to cheer you on—I’m right here.
Want more solo hiking tips, mindset shifts, and community?
Follow me @grateful4living_lifecoach or share this post with someone who’s ready to take their first step.
Ready to Gear Up?
I’ve curated a list of some of my favorite solo hiking essentials—from safety must-haves to comfort boosters. I personally use or recommend these items for anyone starting their solo hiking journey.
🛒 Check out the full gear list here:
👉 My Solo Hiking Essentials on Amazon
Your safety, comfort, and confidence matter—and the right gear can make all the difference.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost) if you choose to purchase them. I only recommend products I love, use, or believe can support your journey. Thank you for supporting my work and helping me continue to empower more women on the trail!