Going Alone: The Reality of Solo Hiking

What does “solo adventure” really look like?In this episode, Rob speaks with Elise Downing and Kirsty Reade about hiking and running alone — not in remote wilderness for months on end, but in the more familiar, human space of big days out, multi-day trails, and personal challenges.Together they explore:What first pushed them to go aloneThe fears that show up before you set off (yes, including axe murderers)The difference between real risk and mental noiseHow running versus walking changes the experienceUnexpected encounters on the trail — from sea shanties in Scotland to chance friendships in the LakesThe small practical steps that make solo trips safer and more enjoyableAnd perhaps most importantly, the feeling at the end of a long day — when you realise you did it yourself.Find out more about solo adventures at bigtrailadventures.com.