Quote:

What is scary for parents is when you realize you can no longer help. I came to that realization when my daughter asked about a calculus problem.



<Laugh> Isn't that the truth. Mine heads off to college in the fall.

I totally agree with food on this. We tend to inflate the dangers involved in things we don't know about (backpacking) and ignore the very real dangers involved in commonplace events (driving.) I also agree with the suggestion that she might need more training and experience before undertaking a week-long solo trip.

Perhaps she could take a week-long Outward Bound or NOLS course?

I do kinda like the bear spray idea. The canister isn't that heavy, and it can be used quite effectively on two-legged predators. Much better than those tiny "pepper spray" bottles they sell at the hardware store.

Checking in and out and leaving an itinerary should be second nature for every hiker, solo or not.

Good luck to your friend.
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--Ken B