I apologize in advance for being blunt.
We have all done it from time to time for one reason or another. Perhaps a partner just wasn't available on that "perfect" day for a hike, or you just desired to make good time and cover lots of ground without a slower partner to hinder your progress.
Perhaps something in your spirit told you it was time for some peace and quiet and a little time alone. Whatever the reason, venturing out alone can come at a great price, with a lot of those costs paid by someone other than you.
Most day hikes start out harmless enough, with lots of anticipation of the sights to be seen and the experiences to be had. But even the simplest of day hikes can turn into tragedies due to a simple sprained ankle, a short fall, or a change in the weather.
Even the most seasoned and experienced can have their lives changed by what would be an insignificant event in a controlled environment but what becomes a catastrophe in the backcountry setting.
Taking along a cell phone is no substitute for a partner. In 1999, Mono County Sheriff Search and Rescue recovered the body of a lone hiker who had taken a cell phone as his "safety net." He was unable to use the phone due to the rapid blood loss he sustained after the rock he pulled down on himself crushed his leg, pelvis, chest and skull.
Even if he had been able to use the phone, help was too far away to do him any good. Things may have been different with a partner.
Having another not only is beneficial when an injury occurs, but two people make better decisions. Perhaps the route would have been different had there been another along to decide the best way to go.
There are some additional costs to look at. The injuries you sustain, and your subsequent suffering or death, does not end the pain. The loved ones you left behind are dealt the most serious blow. They are left with all the questions: "How come he went alone? Why didn't he make a better decision? How could he be so selfish with his life? Did he ever consider the hell that we are being put through now? If only he would have taken a friend things would be different."
All of these things and more are the common reactions. Unfortunately, you can't respond to them if you're dead.
There can be an additional lingering pain for your family and friends if we can't locate your body. Your family needs to find some closure, which is made more difficult if they are unsure of your location and how things ended up.
And if we don't find your remains, the animals surely will. This makes things more unpleasant for both family and those of us recovering your remains.
Once again, I apologize for being so blunt. It is my intent to convey the seriousness of this subject and to instill in you the desire to truly count the costs before venturing out alone.
Do yourself, your friends, your loving family, and your local search and rescue team a great service. Whether you are a beginner or an avid outdoorsman with years and years of experience, count the costs. Don't go alone.