Is it safe to do the GR 11 route alone?

ByEnrique López Mondragón
Trans-Pyrenees solo

Yes, many people complete the GR11 on their own.But it's always safer to be accompanied and inform someone of your itinerary. A satellite communication and GPS tracking device such as Garmin's inReach can save your life and give your loved ones peace of mind.

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Doing the GR-11 or any of the Trans-Pyrenees solo is possible. Obviously, in many stages we will move in high mountain areas, where we are in more or less unsafe terrain and changing weather. Being alone increases the risk, but if the preparation is adequate, our experience is in accordance with the route, and we follow certain tips that I will detail below, we can have more or less control over it. 

Some time ago, we gave advice to a person who was going to do the GR-11, in 30 days and alone. Our advice was aimed at analysing whether he had the experience to face the challenge and help him with the preparation, the design of the stages (always trying to reach a place with services on each day) and also to offer him technological alternatives that would allow him to communicate at any given moment and minimise any risk, either in the event of an accident or any mishap. From GPS alternatives that also have satellite communication, as we recommend, to other options, with which the risk can be minimised.

On the other hand, there are many examples that we have been telling you here of solo Trans-Pyrenees in record times. 

Year after year, if you go on the route, you will see that many people go alone. So, if you are at a time in your life when your body is asking for the solitude of walking day after day with your thoughts, I encourage you to do it, but to prepare yourself properly and not to take unnecessary risks.

Informing someone of your itinerary, carrying communication equipment and being prepared for terrain conditions are key to a route that minimises unnecessary risks. 

Here are some quick tips to help you if you want to do the GR 11 alone(If you are thinking about another Trans-Pyrenees route I advise you to take a look at this article in which you will see that some of the routes are more isolated than others, and have more complicated logistics: GR11 vs GR10 vs ARP).

  • Flexibility: You can set your own pace and schedule, changing the itinerary according to your preferences and needs.
  • Self-discovery: Walking alone allows a deeper connection with yourself and nature. You alone with your thoughts, there are moments in life that may call you to this option of trekking.
  • Fewer distractions: You can concentrate on the environment and the experience without the distractions of the company.
  • Disadvantages (many, sometimes the advantages themselves can become problems, and as I said it depends on the vital moment in which you find yourself and what it means for you to do a route of this type alone). 
  1. Detailed itinerary:
    • Planning: Design a detailed itinerary, including refuelling stops, rest points and overnight stays. (Here we talked about the days you may need and how to design the stages). 
    • Inform someone: Leave a copy of the itinerary with a friend or family member and report any changes.
  2. Communication equipment:
    • Mobile phone: Carry a mobile phone with extra battery and portable chargers.
    • GPS device: A GPS device with messaging capability, such as the Garmin inReachcan be crucial in areas without mobile coverage.
    • Useful apps: You can also use hiking apps such as Wikiloc, Oruxmap, AllTrails, etc., to have offline maps and routes.
  3. Knowledge of the terrain:
    • Maps and guides: Carry detailed topographical maps and specific guides to the GR11. Digital options may be useful. 
    • Weather conditions: Check the weather forecast regularly and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. If the day is "tricky" assess where you will pass and whether a tactical stop is advisable. Bear in mind that you are going alone. 
  4. Security equipment:
    • First aid kit: Includes bandages, disinfectants, painkillers and any personal medication.
    • Whistle: Useful to call attention in case of emergency.
    • Communication equipment (as mentioned above).
    • Appropriate clothing: Wear layers of clothing to adapt to the changing conditions in the Pyrenees.
  1. Regular communication:
    • Check-ins: Set regular times to communicate with someone and update them on your location and status. This may seem like overkill, but it can be vitally important, especially on days when you'll be traversing difficult terrain. 
    • Emergencies: Know the local emergency numbers (in addition to 112) and the location of shelters and medical services along the route.
  2. Precautions on the road:
    • Don't risk: Avoid taking unnecessary risks in dangerous terrain or adverse weather conditions. 
    • Self-awareness: Know your physical and mental limits and take breaks when necessary.
  3. Support network:
    • Hiking community: Connect with other hikers in the forums and social networks to share information and tips. Here is the link to the Crossing forumwhich serves as a meeting place.
    • Encounters on the route: Take the opportunity to meet other hikers at huts and rest points. This network can be of great help in case of emergency. They will get to know your stage plan.

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GR 11

with everything you need to know before undertaking the Pyrenean Path