maxm63•7mo ago

I actively avoid trail markers and think more people should try it

Last spring, I hiked the Pine Creek Loop and ignored all the painted blazes on the trees. I ended up bushwhacking through some thick brush and stumbled upon an old logging camp that isn't on any map. It was messy and my legs got scratched up, but discovering something by chance was a real rush. I believe having a perfect, signposted path removes the sense of exploration that makes hiking special. Most of my friends think I'm an idiot for wandering off like this, calling it unsafe. But in ten years of hiking, I've never had a serious scare, just some interesting detours. How do you all feel about sticking strictly to the marked trail?

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3 Comments

kellyw447mo ago

Straying off trails risks safety and the environment, @alexw74.

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alexw747mo ago

I tried that on a hike in the Smokies last fall. Getting lost for a bit led me to a hidden waterfall I'd never have seen otherwise. I totally get why you enjoy going off the beaten path.

4

james_martin937mo ago

Yeah but that's the thing, @alexw74, you gotta know your limits. Found some cool spots myself by wandering, but you can mess up the ground real bad if you're not careful. It's a balance for sure. What did you do to make sure you left that waterfall spot the way you found it?

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