In narrative writing, paragraph structure helps to organize dialogue and action clearly. Based on your description and formatting needs, you are on the right track.
When a new character speaks, it’s common practice to start a new paragraph. However, you do not necessarily need to start a new paragraph every time no one is talking, especially if you are still focusing on the same scene or characters.
In your example, the first paragraph describes Sophie’s confidence and the overall scene, culminating in a shift to Mia's dialogue. Since Mia is speaking, it makes sense to start a new paragraph for her line.
Here’s your text slightly adjusted for clarity and structure:
Sophie, striding confidently, glanced back at her friends. "You two worry too much! It's just a little hike. What's a mountain without a few challenges?"
Hours passed, and the sky gradually lost its azure blue clarity. A few clouds drifted in, but the trio remained unfazed. They paused at a rocky outcrop for a snack, silhouetted against the gathering grayness.
"This view is spectacular," Mia sighed.
In this case, you did the right thing by starting a new paragraph when Mia spoke. You can keep the section on the atmospheric changes without starting a new paragraph unless you intend to emphasize a different focus or shift the action significantly.
If a new character speaks or if there is a notable shift in the narrative, that's when you should start a new paragraph. So, in summary: you’re correct in your current approach.
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