My Colorado elk trail detour ended with a very confused cow

Last July I was on the Lost Creek Loop near Bailey, Colorado, and a trail closure sent me down this unmarked drainage route. About 2 miles in, I walked straight into a herd of cattle that were not expecting a smelly hiker with a squeaky pack. One big brown cow stared at me, then started following me for almost an hour, like she wanted to be my scout. I finally ducked behind a rock and waited 15 minutes until she lost interest and wandered off. Now I always carry a small whistle and check for grazing allotments on the map before I pick any route. Has anyone else been adopted by livestock on a trail, and how did you shake them off without leading them back to camp?

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noah88022d ago

Funny, I heard cows get curious around hikers a lot in that area.