Solo tripping is a great experience. I had a chance to do a weekend solo on the Churchill River this past August, and throroughly enjoyed myself. Just wish it would have been longer.
There are a few caveats, however. There is no call to 911 if something "bad" happens. When I got the chance to do my trip (thanks to my job and a loving family), I promised my wife:
1). I wouldn't run any fast water unless there were people at the bottom of the run (didn't see another soul - rats).
2). I wouldn't try anything I wasn't absolutely sure I could do.
3. I'd leave camp if a bear decided we had to share (didn't see one).
4. I wouldn't go out if the weather was bad (great weather, except for the usual wind in the face).

Loneliness is something that must be anticipated and managed. I missed my usual partners very badly, especially the first night under the aurora.

Would I do it again? Absolutely, but I'd still miss my friends.

Posted by Skip Guyer on October 22, 1999 at 10:47