What they said.
To add something: Take every precaution and be 100% careful. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> Backcountry solo travel with a pack requires a LOT of different skills, <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />not the least of which is navigation. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />BUT by far the number one thing that must occupy your mind is being absolutely 100% careful, <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />like a rock climber climbing <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />- there is no option for failure. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> You may not carry an extremely sharp knife <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" />- you could injure yourself with it - stop at the first rock and run the blade over it to take the extreme edge off it - sharp is good , but you do not want a scalpel and all that it implies. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

You might also be scared Sh******less being alone in backcountry in grizz territory for the first time <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> - something to ponder. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> There IS safety in numbers. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In this group it is mostly the very most experienced people who prefer to travel solo. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> Those people are certain of their ability to deal with ANY situation and have the experience to make wise decisions. They know how to use their gear effectively. Wisdom BTW does not mean knowing the right thing to do, wisdom eans doing the right thing because you know there is a good reason too. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />
Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />