I used to think the John Muir Trail was the only real way to see the Sierra, but a storm near Evolution Basin changed my mind.

I was about 30 miles in, near Evolution Lake, when a thunderstorm rolled in way faster than forecast. I had to drop off the main trail and take a lower, less-used route for safety. That detour led me past these amazing, quiet meadows and a small lake I'd never heard of. It made me realize sticking rigidly to the famous routes means you miss a lot of the actual place. Anyone else have a trip where getting off the 'perfect' trail was the best part?

4 comments

4 Comments

the_thomas3mo ago

Ever had that happen where getting lost is the whole point? My best trip was when I missed a turn in the White Mountains and ended up on this old logging road. It was totally quiet, just me and some deer, way better than the crowded main path. The planned route is just a suggestion sometimes. Getting off it lets you actually find a place instead of just hiking through it.

sean_green443mo ago

Ever get so lost you find yourself?

gavin3651mo ago

Stumbled onto an abandoned railroad bed in the Poconos once. Followed it for like two hours, ended up at this old stone quarry filled with emerald green water. Totally illegal swimming hole probably, but I sat there eating trail mix watching dragonflies. Way better than the stupid overlook with fifty other people taking selfies.

hayes.casey3mo ago

Missed a turn in the Adirondacks once and ended up on a game trail. It led to a beaver pond at sunset, completely silent, and that beat any view from the marked path. @the_thomas is right, the plan is just a suggestion.