jessem59•1mo agoProlific Poster

Got turned around in the Smokies near Clingmans Dome last fall

I was about 4 miles into the Forney Ridge Trail when the fog rolled in thick, and I missed a key turn. My map said I should have hit a creek crossing by then, but I was just on a steep slope with no trail markers. I stopped, checked my compass, and realized I'd been following an old game trail for maybe 20 minutes. I backtracked slowly until I found the actual trail junction, which added an extra hour to my day. Has anyone else had the trail just disappear on them in that area? I'd love to know what landmarks you used.

4 comments

4 Comments

simonk981mo ago

That fog near Clingmans Dome is no joke, it can make everything look the same. Following a game trail for twenty minutes is honestly terrifying to think about. Really glad you kept a cool head and checked your compass.

julia_carter611mo ago

Glad you found your way back (my sense of direction is a family joke).

miller.diana18d ago

Read once that fog disrupts your inner ear balance, but @drew_rivera probably knows that firsthand from the AT.

drew_rivera1mo ago

Man, that fog is wild up there! I did the same thing on the Appalachian Trail near there once, and it took forever to find the blazes again.