I'm not at all against riding solo.. but there are dangers that you have to be willing to take. crashing,injury and death are issues you really have to consider. better be well trained in "self" rescue and confident and ride in your riding ability before head out by yourself. I think the solo rider blog showed what it takes to get yourself out of a sticky situation. not saying he's not an idiot but.... He could have used better judgement.

I also think the spot tracking device is a must have riding solo or in a group.
leaving a detailed plan of where you are going and not diverting from that for nothing unless contacting someone before changing is the rule.

and the number 1 rule is not to try to ride something that might be beyond your ability...