Always ignored the difficulty signs on trailheads. Hiked Black Bear last month and it kicked my butt. The steep sections and loose rocks made me respect those ratings. Now I check them before every hike.
My hikes are smoother and less stressful now.
It was so peaceful and quiet, lol.
Now I always check for blazes at junctions.
I believed keeping to myself made hikes more peaceful. Then a woman walking her dog told me about a bear sighting up ahead. I turned back and avoided a risky situation. Now I see how sharing info on the trail keeps everyone safe.