In today’s episode, I’m taking you back to the solo backpacking trip that shaped me in all the best ways, my very first overnight alone on the trail.
I share what inspired me to go solo in the first place, how I handled the fear, the unexpected snow that changed my plans, and the plot twist at the trailhead that almost stranded me.
This trip wasn’t perfect, but it gave me huge confidence in myself, my decision-making, and my leadership skills.
If you’ve been wondering whether you can really do this solo backpacking thing... this episode is for you.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Why I felt called to go solo—and how that decision changed me
- The exact fears I faced leading up to the trip (and what helped me push through)
- How I rerouted my trip plan on the fly—and felt confident making safety decisions solo
- What I learned from choosing not to summit the peak I had planned
- The mindset shifts that helped me feel safe alone at night
- 4 key takeaways for anyone dreaming of their first solo backpacking adventure
Read on our Blog: Trail Guide to Hiking Mount Langley
🗓️ PS—Don’t forget to save the date for our upcoming Solo Hiker Summit! It’s happening June 3-5, 2026.
This virtual summit is for women who are done waiting for the right person, the right conditions, or the right version of themselves — and are ready to finally hike alone, go confidently, and maybe even spend a night or two in the backcountry. 😉
Registration opens at the end of May. Join our newsletter here (shedreamsofalpine.com/email) to be FIRST to know when registration opens for the Solo Hiker Summit.
Where to learn more about Allison:
🎁 FREE GIFT: Grab the Outdoor Backpacker Starter Kit for FREE here to get started on your journey with backpacking. (shedreamsofalpine.com/adventure)
🥾 BACKPACKING COURSE WAITLIST (shedreamsofalpine.com/waitlist): This is our signature program where women who are done waiting finally get the skills, the plan, the coaching, and the community to make backpacking real. You'll learn everything you need to get out there safely and confidently — and you'll do it surrounded by 2,000+ women who are right there in the trenches with you, cheering you on every step of the way. If you've been circling this goal for a while, this is the place to finally land.
