Had to choose between the ridge trail or the creek bed bypass on day 3 of my Smokies trip

So I'm hiking up to Mount LeConte last month and I hit this fork where the main ridge trail was all exposed with no shade but the creek bed bypass looked like it would add 2 extra miles. I went with the creek route because it was like 85 degrees and I was already sweating through my shirt. Big mistake. That bypass turned into a boulder scramble where I had to jump between wet rocks for over an hour. My ankle rolled twice and I slipped into the water up to my knee on the third jump. I made it but it took way longer than expected and I got to the shelter after dark. The ridge trail would've been brutal sun wise but probably faster and safer. Has anyone else picked the wrong fork and regretted it halfway through?

2 comments

2 Comments

shane_fisher3723d ago

Had to choose between the ridge trail or the creek bed bypass" - man, that's basically every decision I make at the grocery store aisle, thinking the longer route with more shade will somehow save me time. It's funny how we always pick the option that looks easier upfront without checking if it's actually doable, then end up paying for it twice as hard on the back end. Next time I'm just taking the ridge trail and bringing a hat.

the_paul23d ago

Notice how @shane_fisher37 we always pick the path that looks easier, then wonder why we're tired.