Jeff when I walk in and I have not cleared a path; I sound like a squirrel. Yes it works.
I walk in on 15 deer about 30-40 yds from my stand. Got up in it and they came by. I had just pulled my bow up.

I take 2 or 3 steps then I shuffle my foot in the leaves. Try to mimic the sound of a squirrel looking for a nut.

I will also clear a path in the early season, not in late Oct you have to go out at night and clear it again.