On this week’s episode River shares her love of solo hiking and travel as a tool for self-growth, and answers questions submitted by our Instagram audience! From favorite destinations to the big question “Do you carry bear spray, flatware, or a gun?” this solo cast gives personal experiences on several aspects of solo travel/hiking. 

“Hiking is a bit like life: The journey only requires you to put one foot in front of the other… again and again and again. “The best view comes after the hardest climb.

First off, solo hiking means freedom! It allows you to go whenever and wherever you want, without waiting for friends or partners to be available. It allows you to disconnect from technology and distractions, giving you an increased sense of peace in nature. 

Solo hiking also allows you to set your own pace and itinerary. You can hike as slow or as fast as you want, and there will be no catching up after stopping to take the hundredth photo! 

One of the most rewarding benefits of solo hiking is the sense of personal accomplishment. Hiking alone increases self-reliance and self-sufficiency, in turn, increases my self-esteem. I consider solo hiking an essential to my self-care.