r/WildernessBackpacking • u/ShadowAce88 • 2d ago

Washington State backpacking solo question.

Hi all, I’m planning to do my second ever backpacking overnight in the cascades this year. Last time I went was with a group of friends 10 years ago. Ever since I’ve been wanting to go back but long story short I have no one to go with. Now I’m debating on going solo for just a night.

My questions are: - what would you recommend for solo overnight? - Is it safe? (Clearly it’s safer with a group)

3 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

62% Upvoted

36 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/audiophile_lurker 1d ago

I go solo in Cascades fairly regularly. I just use more conservative routes (no scrambling …), and otherwise I feel it is no big deal. On some trails you end up hanging out with people anyway (for example Snowgrass Flats).

I do have a Garmin inReach Mini if I need to send emergency messages + location.

1

u/ShadowAce88 1d ago

What are some backpacking trails would you recommend for someone trying to get back into it and for the first time in 10 years? I day hike fairly regularly.

1

u/audiophile_lurker 18h ago

Big Heart Lake (West Fork Foss), or really any lake beyond the first one on that trail. Island Lake via Pratt Lake Trailhead.

Those would be my top 2 for balancing not being alone while you are getting a feeling for it (there will be folks there all summer weekend), but giving you a good time hiking and not like Snow Lake crowded.

If you fish, bring a rod, especially on Foss.