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Best Laid Plans
Written By: Deena Bouknight | Issue: October - 2022
A favorite pursuit is hiking, and the more exploratory the better. And, with plenty of traditional printed maps, as well as apps such as AllTrails and Gaia GPS, one would think that the best laid plans would always come to fruition. However, that is sometimes not the case. In fact, outdoor enthusiasts must be a pliable lot.
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A favorite pursuit is hiking, and the more exploratory the better. And, with plenty of traditional printed maps, as well as apps such as AllTrails and Gaia GPS, one would think that the best laid plans would always come to fruition. However, that is sometimes not the case. In fact, outdoor enthusiasts must be a pliable lot. After being told about and then instructed on a somewhat off-the-grid hike in Macon County, I prepared by downloading a map on Gaia GPS as well as carrying inside my Kavu (sling backpack) a printed Appalachian Trail (A.T.) Map, since the trail was supposed to involve the A.T. for a bit. After turning off a major highway and then traversing down a Forest Service road for about five miles, a parking area and an official Forest Service post with the universal hiker symbol determined that I must be in the correct area to begin the recommended hike. All was well – for about three quarters of a mile. Suddenly, the double hiking trail blazes, painted on a tree, suggested two trails instead of one, and the app indicated the route I was on was not going to end at the intended destination. I took the other trail for several yards. Again, the GPS app visually conveyed I was going the wrong way. Somewhat frustrated, I returned to my vehicle and reevaluated. Another, unmarked trail beckoned. I took it for a while, but still was going in the wrong direction. Finally, as a last-ditch effort, I took the trail that led in the exact opposite direction of the first trail. Now and then, the GPS showed that I was close to the intended trail, but then it veered off again. I reminded myself that I was outside, had plenty of hiking trails to choose from, and could enjoy the clear-blue-sky day despite the best laid plans going awry. So, while I was supposed to find the Chunky Gal Trail off Hwy. 64 near Standing Indian in the Nantahala National Forest, I could not. I still encourage readers to hike – everywhere and anywhere. Find a trail, hike a mile, or two, or three out and then retrace steps, and don’t worry about getting to an exact destination each time. I was able to come across beautiful and varied mushrooms, view numerous animal tracks, and even experience some early fall foliage. Just always, no matter if a short or a long hike is planned, take necessities – just in case: water, a snack, a flashlight, bear spray, and a first aid kit.
by Deena Bouknight
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