Is it ok to leave someone behind when hiking?

Question

I went with my best friend and her hubby for a hike on a path which I don't know. I was excited for that trip that we will make nice memories together and check out some new places. They hike in a very fast pace and I can't keep up with them. I have an average hiking speed, they hike like hounds like it is a race where your life depends on it on who makes it first to the top. I have a medical condition, and extra 50lbs to carry vs. my friend, she knows that. They went ahead and just left me behind, disappeared on the horizon and left me without a map, reception or idea where I'm going. They said they will wait for me on the trail. It took me 20 minutes to get to them and the moment I did they already rested and went ahead again... I felt it was a bit rude and I didn't feel safe, as there are black bears and not many tourists. I confronted my friend telling her I really felt uncomfortable about this, she responded that everyone wants to enjoy mountains, go in their own pace and their purpose is to get tired and push themselves (talk about fitshaming). She said that nobody should hold anyone back. What do you think?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I think "scout's rules" should apply to people hiking together unless it has been agreed upon before hand that the group isn't going to stay together. The scouts rule is this: The pace for the entire group is the pace that is comfortable for the SLOWEST hiker in the group, because some day YOU will be the slowest hiker in the group and be very glad of this rule.

Your friend is not only selfish but unsafe. Avoid any risky outings where SHE is in charge as she clearly has no concern for the safety of others.

Foofa · Answer

That's not recommended because it can be dangerous to leave someone behind, especially someone with a medical condition. I think I'd stop hiking with this particular group and find another that's more at your skill level. This is a safety issue.

Blue Sky · Answer

I agree, you need to find new hiking partners and she should have had the common sense to know you would be walking at a much slower pace than her and her husband. I love to hike and I am a fast walker too, but what they did was irresponsible and selfish. Don't let one bad experience make you give up hiking.

Anonymous · Answer

Don't hike with her again.

Anonymous · Answer

Basic safety demands that people hiking together stay in sight of each other. That's the only way to know if someone is in any kind of trouble, whether it's an injury, inability to determine what's a trail and what's not, a dangerous animal on the trail, or a hiker who robs or hurts other hikers. (All are more common than you'd think.)

jimmy · Answer

I think you need a new hiking partner.

Jane · Answer

it’s not okay to leave someone behind when hiking for security reasons . Hiking in the mountains it’s a good sport for cardio but it could be dangerous. You could fall or see a dangerous animal. It’s always more safe to be in group in the mountains.

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Is it ok to leave someone behind when hiking?

7 Answers