My backpacking philosophy in a nutshell: I may not know the names of things...but I can describe things in incredible detail!@ I have backpacked solo (and I prefer it sometimes). I have gotten lost, puked and feared I had guardia (once). I do not fear the paragon of animals. This means rattlesnakes, scorpions and rabid javelina are par for the course. LEAVE NO TRACE.
Peace out and have fun. oh yah, and Don't get lost/.