Getting "lost" in an urban, suburban or rural environment is generally not a bad thing, and can be a lot of fun and exciting - especially if you find something cool. I used to do the same thing as the OP when I was young.
Getting lost in a remote wilderness environment; however, is generally not very forgiving if you are not prepared. I go backpacking solo often in very remote wilderness areas and have run into problems twice in the last 50 years. I was prepared both times but it was still a struggle to get back to my car or help.
And remember, if mountain biking into remote wilderness areas and if you have an event on your bike and you are injured and/or your bike is damaged and not ridable, pre-plan the trip accordingly...
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Last edited by drlogik; 03-24-26 at 08:09 PM.