travel and rhum

Hello,

i’m super into the outdoors and hiking and don’t have many people to go with. i’ve often found that this has become a barrier to me exploring one of my favorite hobbies and methods of exercise. i’m pretty nervous to hike alone because of concerns for my safety but would love to be able to enjoy longer hikes. it’s been disappointing to explore the same trails or shorter trails be I feel so weary. is there any tips for being a solo hiker?

There’s a hiking trail I frequent , Lewis Creek falls in Oakhurst California, it has many off shoots from the trail that lead down to the creek. So I’ll often go down one of the trails that lead to the creek and sit on large rock and read for an hour.

Once in a while, a couple or another solo hiker will walk past me and it makes me feel a little awkward, like I’m claiming this particular spot. So it got me wondering if this is considered bad etiquette on a hiking trail. I’d love to hear what y’all have to say so I can either continue doing it or find a new reading spot.

Edit: Thank you all for the replies and encouragement! You’ve helped ease my mind a bit. Happy hiking! And reading, if you’re into that too.