I stayed at a campsite close to the road alone because I mistakenly thought some other thru hikers would be joining me. As I was cooking dinner, a male camper (someone just there for the day) came up to me. He asked me if I wanted to come hang out with his group and drink some beer, and, as I was a little lonely, I did.
At his campsite:
Him: So you’re hiking on the Appalachian Trail, eh? And you’re headed into the 100 mile wilderness.
Addy: Yeah.
Him: How long do you think it’ll take you?
Addy: About 10 days. (don’t give out this information, Addy!)
Him: And where will you go after that?
Addy: I’ll be staying in Monson. (don’t give out that information either!)
Him: And you are hiking alone?
Addy: Yes. (don’t tell people that!)
Him: Do you have a boyfriend?
Addy: Yes.
Him: That’s too bad. Hey, it’s pretty dangerous out there. Are you bringing a gun or anything?
Me: (pause) Yes. Yes, I am bringing a gun just to be safe. [Gets up]
Well, I better be getting on to bed now.
[puts down the beer bottle and walks away]
As a solo hiker, never give strangers information about where you are going or that you are hiking alone. At least, if you are stupid enough to do that, be prepared to lie about the gun you have in your pack.
I suggest something like, “I was going to bring my hunting rifle, but I decided it was too heavy, so I’ve settled for something smaller.”
