Utah Travel Answers

May I ask what is the nature of the potential danger you're wondering about? During the time I spent there I didn't encounter anything that seemed remotely threatening, quite the contrary, but then I'm not female.

The only real issue would be a vehicle breakdown but barring that very slight possibility I can't think of any safety issues you should worry about. So enjoy.

Having been there, I think it's a valid fear. Trouble can strike anywhere, anytime. Unfortunately, being a single - solo female traveler in remote areas is indeed slightly more dangerous as you never know where or when someone is going to take advantage of that situation. Although chances are you will be alright, def. yes, keep yourself on high alert and be aware of your surroundings. The good thing is that you will be able to see/hear people coming from miles away depending on where you are and just how remote you want to go. Homer

We've spent quite a lot of time in the southwest and I wouldn't have even the tiniest hesitation to going it alone. The attractions in these areas are not nearly as remote or deserted at you would think: in fact, the National Parks will be VERY busy during the high season, and moderately so during other times of the year. Yes, your biggest risk would be a car breakdown (and I wouldn't worry about that if you stay on major or secondary roads) or breaking a leg or something hiking solo but again, the major trails in the National Parks will be anything but deserted so if you don't wander off the grid... The southern Utah/Colorado and northern New Mexico/Arizona regions are my very favorite areas of the United States - go have fun and take LOTS of memory chips for the camera!

Oh, forgot to mention.... The parks are all very safe at night but great care needs to be taken to watch for wildlife. Depending on the park, deer and other large critters (like free-range cattle and sheep) are not uncommon in these areas - day AND night - so keep your foot lightly on the gas and your eyes wide open!

I have driven all through Utah alone. I have also driven some fairly deserted roads with only my daughter who is mildly intellectually handicapped and unable to drive or be much help in bad situations. I have hiked alone thought knowing someone was there waiting for me as my hubby hasn't been able to join me on many of the hikes I take. I have never felt unsafe or nervous. I crave the quiet. Yes there are always risks, but for the most part people are good, helpful and interesting. And as goodfish / kate says, if you are in the main parks you most certainly will not be alone.

HehHeh, I KNEW you'd jump in here, Segolily! Kaitlyn, if it's possible to be a bigger fan of the Southwest than I am, it's our Lily - and she's full of great advice as she lives not far (in the big picture) from the area you describe, and has done so much solo. Honestly, I'd even recommend taking some of the paths less traveled as not all of them are difficult, just outside of the parks where there are likely to be fewer bodies to contend with. Doing some homework first so you know you're not getting into anything you can't handle, and leaving the a sheet on your dash with the time you set out, trail you're taking, and expected time of return is a must-do safeguard in more remote areas. And if you find you may be biting off more than you can chew, you can always turn around and go back the way you came! Do come back to us with some of the places you're specifically looking at, and for ideas, if you wish?

Always a good idea to let someone know where you are at- especially if hiking alone

Sta travel, gap yr have group travel going to places you may be interested in. i'm going to do best if the west in September. Have fun

Thanks Kate ! :-) I was out again this weekend on a couple shorter trails with hubby in the car waiting. This was mostly a driving trip since he couldn't do too much. Didn't see anyone on the first hike, and only saw a couple people just as I was returning on the second. I do love Utah. I was able to fill in a few holes and see a few things that I haven't been able to get to before and see some old favorites. Couldn't do the drive we really wanted though since it was snowing!! and the road would have been impassable.

Ah, I predict some new tips coming soon??

Haha, yes, I expect a few more added to my Utah page, and maybe a new page I'll see how ambitious I am. I took pictures with that idea in mind :-)