The U.S. Forest Service law enforcement ought to be defending our borders and federal property from illegal growers instead of harrassing citizens. There are too many LEO’s with too little to do other than harrass people.
My wife and I hike regularly in GSMNP, along with several state parks and wilderness areas here in TN, and also in NC and GA. We hike several dozen times a year and have for over 10 years. It is exceedingly rare to see a Ranger out on the trail, despite numerous cases over the past few years where hikers have been assaulted, robbed, raped, and in several incidences, murdered. It was happening so much that the State of Tennessee now allows CC in parks. However, if you happen to park in the wrong spot or momentarily have a pet off the leash in the parking lot of a trail head and a Ranger sees you, expect a ticket.
Too dangerous. /s