A Solo Hike on Memorial Day
Memorial Day weekend provided the perfect opportunity to hit the trail and clear my head. I decided to head to Mount Higby in Middlefield, Connecticut, with my Mount Higby hiking guide in hand. The weather was perfect — sunny and mild — making it an ideal day for a mid-morning solo hike.
Reflecting on the Journey
Solo hiking, for me, is a chance to reflect on life and think about what’s next in my adventure. Thanks to the Mount Higby hiking guide, I was well-prepared for the steep ridges and cliff edges that make this trail so exciting. Along the way, I encountered other hikers every five to ten minutes, each enjoying the beautiful blend of forested paths and rocky ledges.
A C-130 Flyover Surprise
However, the most memorable part of the hike came unexpectedly. A C-130 from the National Guard flew low over the trail. Given the holiday, it was no surprise to see them training. Still, the roar of the engines made it a truly special moment that added a sense of adventure to the day.
Trail Challenges and Safety Tips
As I neared the trail’s end, I found that the last quarter-mile was more overgrown than expected. It seemed most hikers turn back at the final peak, which likely explains the lack of foot traffic in that section. Nevertheless, I pushed forward, determined to complete the trail.
For safety, it’s important to note that the trail runs close to some cliff edges. Therefore, hikers with a fear of heights should proceed with caution. Fortunately, the narrowest section is about 15 feet wide, so most hikers should be able to stay safely away from the edge without any trouble.
My Go-To Hiking Gear
As always, I brought my trusty hiking gear, which includes a Salomon Active Skin 8L running vest, Oakley Holbrook sunglasses, Topo Athletic Mountain Racer shoes, and an Alter Ego running hat. This combination has served me well on many New England trails, offering the perfect balance between comfort and performance.
Solomon Vest: https://www.salomon.com/en-us/shop/product/active-skin-8-lc12604.html#color=89355
Topo Athletic Shoes: https://www.topoathletic.com/mens-mtn-racer-3?quantity=1&color=218
Alter Ego Hat: https://alteregorunning.com/collections/alter-ego-hats/products/coaster-splash-white-navy-camo?variant=43890094375160
Post-Hike Plans
After the hike, I had planned to stop at New Guida’s Restaurant for a treat. Unfortunately, it was closed for the holiday. Nevertheless, I’ll be sure to stop there on my next trip — after all, no adventure is truly complete without a satisfying meal at the end.
👉 Get the Mount Higby hiking guide for safety tips, navigation help, and the best spots to relax after your hike. Find it here: https://runhikerelax.gumroad.com/l/Higby
Note: Run Hike Relax is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of the businesses or entities mentioned in this post.