Why I Choose to Enjoy Solo Hiking Despite the Potential Danger
What are you willing to risk in order to live your fullest life?
It was a cloudy day in October. I walked out onto the platform overlooking Sahalie Falls. It was just as beautiful as you would expect, but that’s not why I had driven into the mountains of Oregon. I was there to visit Tamolitch Pool, also known as Blue Pool.
I’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for 30 years and somehow, I’ve still never visited this famous location, beloved by outdoor enthusiasts. For some reason, I decided this was the year to do it — right after wildfire season ripped through the area, closing off the main trailhead, where the hike comes in just under 4 miles, round trip.
Because of the closure, I had to start from the other end, which means about double the distance: at least 8 miles.
I wasn’t concerned about that, however. I had other worries on my mind. Like the fact that I was in the mountains, with no cell phone service, all by myself on an unfamiliar trail.
I’d just spent the summer reaching out of my comfort zone by enjoying solo hikes. I often struggled to coordinate outings with my friends — it turns out middle age brings much more responsibilities, rather than less — so I taught myself how to hit the…
