I use to be more of a solo hiker and still would prefer being outdoors alone than anywhere else. Fortunately, my wife has always been a big outdoors lover and in the past decade or so has really taken to backpacking...she's been the perfect hiking partner and we often do 50-100 mile trips together. We both use hammocks, so, it's not your romantic outing, but we get along great and enjoy each other's company. In larger groups, I just end up working too hard...the larger the group the lazier they typically are and I get little to know peace or enjoyment. I do volunteer to help when taking teens out backpacking; I know what I'm getting into and can accept the hassle. What kills me are lazy adults...and yes, most often forget something.
My son is coming along as a good partner, but I can't keep up with him anymore (he's 15); he'll literally run the route with backpack and barefoot. Still, he's been a good hiking buddy and doesn't complain. So, if I can hike with my wife or son, I'll go solo unless I'm volunteering to help with a group.
ROCK6