Walking Alone: The Reality of Being a Solo Female Walker

There’s something deeply freeing about setting out on a long walk alone. The rhythm of your steps, the quiet of nature, the chance to be fully present with your thoughts, it’s an experience many like me cherish. As a solo female walker however, this freedom often comes with an undercurrent of caution, a sprinkle of paranoia, and the occasional “pretend I’m on a phone call” moment.

The Joy (and Occasional Awkwardness) of Walking Alone

Solo walking is such an important aspect of my own self-care. It’s a time to disconnect from the noise of daily life and to observe the world without distraction. Solo walks also give me time to listen to some great music, catch up on podcasts, or just absorb the natural sounds around me. Last summer, I walked the South West Coastal Path, and it was absolutely liberating. There’s something about the endless horizon of the sea, the dramatic cliffs, and the untamed beauty of the South West that has captivated me since childhood, when I spent family holidays in Devon.

This time, I craved not just solitude but also the thrill of navigating a path on your own terms and setting your own pace and direction. Solo walking also allows me to make as many stops and eat as many snacks as I like with nobody to judge me! There is no need to have to adapt to someone else’s schedule. Want to wake up early for a sunrise hike? Go for it. Feel like stopping to take photos or to swim in the sea? No one is rushing you. The trail is yours to experience exactly how you want – whether that means setting yourself a goal to achieve your personal best, or taking breaks to greet every adorable dog that crosses your path.

Every solo journey build’s confidence, resilience, and a sense of self-sufficiency that’s hard to find elsewhere – until you trip on an invisible crack on the path and hope no one saw.

The Hidden Considerations (a.k.a. The Art of Looking Busy and Alert)

Yet, walking alone as a woman often means managing risks that others might not think twice about. From checking our surroundings more consistently, getting the occasional unsettling glance or comment from strangers, and trusting instincts when something doesn’t feel quite right. That heightened awareness becomes part of the journey, a quiet companion alongside the landscape and the miles ahead. Many women develop their own personal safety strategies—like perfecting the “don’t talk to me” face or one of my personal favourites of pretending to have a phone call with your super intimidating imaginary friend, Brenda.

Balancing Caution with Confidence

Despite these challenges, walking alone doesn’t have to be a fearful experience, of course it’s important to take precautions, but the narrative that women are constantly at risk when alone in nature is often exaggerated. Statistically, cities pose far greater dangers than a quiet mountain trail or coastal path. Most people you’ll encounter on the trail are fellow walkers, nature lovers, or locals who are more likely to help you than harm you. Trust in the kindness of strangers while still listening to your intuition.

Sticking to national walking routes is a great idea for solo female walkers not only for the easy to follow, well-marked paths, but also for the added sense of security. These routes are well-maintained, frequently travelled and a great place to meet other walkers. In addition, the added comfort of villages with locals and tourists, multiple accommodation options and more frequent access to public restrooms is a bonus. Some of the most iconic routes in the UK are national trails, The West Highland Way, South West Coast Path and Offa’s Dyke are my personal favourites.

Many women like me find strength in reclaiming their right to public spaces, refusing to let fear dictate their experiences. Walking alone is an act of independence, a declaration that the world is ours to explore too.

by: Holly Robertson – Celtic Trails