Hiking in Big Sky Country is a wonderful way to enjoy nature. Most tourists never go further than 100 yards from a road. Trekking further requires some pre-planning, especially if you plan to hike alone!
Solo anything in Nature has its risks. There is always an issue with weather, insects, bears, snakes, Mountain Lions, terrain, injury, getting lost, losing track of time, and so much more. Usually, one thing leads to another and before you know it your solo adventure turns into a risky venture.
No hike, bike, float, or trek is worth dying over. Solo hiking is liberating and empowering, but it can also become a problem if there is no one to watch your six. Accidents can and will happen.
Here are some things to take and remember when hiking alone in Big Sky Country. These items can also be used on a wheeler, mountain bike, boat, or on your person.
Carry Pack You don’t need much but a pack is helpful. A small lightweight back pack or fanny pack can carry what you need. It needs to fit and be comfortable. Less is more. A Bear Bell will announce your presence when hiking. The ringy Dingy will help prevent a surprise critter encounter.
Hiking footwear A broken in pair of boots is essential. They will support your foot and ankle. Traction cleats will help prevent slipping. No sandals, crocs, or barefooting unless you are asking for an accidental injury. A small pair of dry socks won’t hurt.
Walking Staff This stick needs to be sturdy and fit your size. The handle can contain a compass or have a hollow space for small need storage. Not only will a staff help you keep upright, but it can also serve as a weapon. My hiking staff has a chamber loaded with fishing line, hooks, and matches. A compass is embedded in the handle.
Weapons I am always packin! A knife or two are in my pocket or on my belt. A revolver with a few speed loaders is a good idea. Revolvers always go boom when you pull the trigger. No jamming. Carry it where you can quickly draw the weapon. Don’t put it in your pack. Bear spray will work on more than bears and needs to be handy.
Hand pruners. These can also be carried in a belt sheath. They have so many uses from clearing a trail to scavenging for food, of=r building an emergency shelter.
Space Blanket or survival sleeping bag These pocket-sized cloths could save the day. You can wrap up in them to stay warm, stay dry. Or signal for help. They can also be used to collect rainwater. A large contractor’s trash bag can also serve as a survival tool.
Navigation Tools Know where you are going. Have a map, GPS, cell phone, or compass. Cell signals are not everywhere so know how to use a compass.
Mr. Larry Gloves An old fishing buddy, Larry, always carried a cheapo pair of cloth gloves from the local hardware store. They came in a 12 pack, and he shared them with us all. They always had a use.
OPTICS Seeing Is Believing. A small pair of binoculars can help you see danger before it’s a problem. You can also see landmarks and trails, as well as observing wildlife.
Fire Starter At least some weatherproof matches or a lighter will do. If you have some toilet tissue for hygiene, save a little to start a fire.
First Aid Kit A few Tylenols, band aids, a bandage or … may be needed.
Nutrient pack Snacks like protein bars or trail mix can take the edge off while giving you more energy.
Water Filtering Straw A water bottle or canteen is always important to have. If you run out of water these filtering straws allow you to sip from puddles, ponds, and streams.
This may seem like a lot of gear, but all these items can be compact and have a balanced place to carry and store them. It is also important to let others know about your hiking plan. Leave a note at the car or use the hiker sign in box.
Plan a reasonable excursion based on time, distance, and terrain. You want to be able to be back before dark.
There is a place and time for solo hiking. You can set your own pace, distance, trails, and rest/do what you want. No noise, talking, or arguing. Solo trekking can be liberating. Mentoring some friends can make the trek safer and more fun.
Trek safely!
Montana Grant
