These are very good posts! I have hiked with others and since I'm a slow hiker, I don't do well with others. I used to hike in the Sierra's a lot and always went with my ex and well, we never seemed to have any problems. I now go solo and I'm lovin' it. I, too get to a place mentally or spiritually either one, that I am so focused on my journey and I am not really fit company for anyone. I like my solitude and actually I'd rather take my dog than anyone else. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />