Thinking about this a bit more. Chris your posting says Arizona.
That brings to mind all kinds of possibilities.
But ultimately you didn't give us much context. Where will you be? How much experience backpacking do you already have?
And so on. The answers depend on conditions.

If you've never backpacked before, going solo isn't a good idea for many reasons. (most of which having to do with not having developed a "groove" with yourself and your gear.)

If you're going alone and planning your first trip and going out in the Arizona desert in July planning to live off the land just like the Indians.... well, there are more reasons :-)

I second that a small book is a good idea as would be reading one about tracking or other intricate outdoor skills beforehand so that you'll have something else to keep occupied if you need it.