Overheard a guy at the trailhead say 'the only real route is off-trail' and I'm still mad about it

I was gearing up at the Mount Hood trailhead last weekend and this dude was loudly telling his group that sticking to marked trails is for tourists. He said, and I quote, 'If you're not making your own path, you're just walking in a line.' That's such a dangerous and stupid take, lmao. I've done my share of cross-country stuff in the Three Sisters Wilderness, but it's a skill you build, not a badge of honor to push on beginners. Pushing people off established routes just trashes fragile areas and gets folks lost. The Timberline Trail is a classic for a reason, it's stunning and it keeps impact in one place. Has anyone else run into this weird trail-shaming attitude, or is it just a Pacific Northwest thing?

3 comments

3 Comments

kevin_bailey16d agoMost Upvoted

Ever think maybe he's just tired of seeing the same exact view as everyone else?

jessicab331mo ago

Maybe he's got a point though. Following a set line does kinda feel like you're just checking a box.

coraperry1mo ago

Hold up, you really think winging it is better? A set line gives you a clear plan so you don't forget the important stuff. Like with a workout, if you just do random exercises you might skip leg day completely. Or following a recipe step by step is the only reason my cookies turn out edible. That structure is what actually gets things done right.