In early 2020, right before COVID hit, I got a chance to visit a client site in Utah. I had zero plans for sightseeing, but while casually exploring Google Maps, my eyes stopped at one name — Zion National Park. And then I saw the famous Angels Landing hike.

YouTube was flooded with videos about it, each one making it look both insane and irresistible. Angels Landing is actually one of the most iconic hikes in the U.S., known for its narrow ridge, 1,500-ft drop on both sides, and chain-supported sections. Every year, thousands attempt it — and many turn back.

Until then, I had never done a solo hike, and honestly, this one looked terrifying. My only plan was simple: go as far as I feel safe. No pressure.

And somehow… I ended up making it all the way to the peak.

Looking back now, I realized something important — I actually enjoy having company on trips like this. Solo travel pushes your mind in surprising ways, but it also made me appreciate how good it feels to share a moment with someone. When I reached the peak, I met a bunch of other solo hikers, and we instantly connected. One of them even took the photo below for me.

My approach for this hike was simple: eat the elephant byte by byte — one careful step at a time until I reached Angels Landing.

Let me know what you think, and tell me what adventure I should try next!