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I was a Boy Scout as well. Remember when they told you to never hike alone, especially at night? They were right. However, shorter, daytime hikes, on well travelled paths, provided you're capable, are absolutely fine.
The last thing you want is to get lost off a trail due to sheer incompetence, night hiking, or a mistake, and have the forest service find your sniveling, unprepared ass out in the bush crying for mommy. Be Prepared - I always carry a Satphone for emergencies, (well worth the investment for peace of mind alone) and bring a friend for the longest of hikes.
