How do you get to Smileton?

Simply put, this zone is stupid and I can't figure out if there's a way to get to the segment of the map where the entrance to Smileton is.

I neglected to unlock flying if that matters. Is this an Astrologian job quest situation where you need to have flying?

Sounds like you should finish spending the 10min it takes to unlock flying. Or try to wall jump. I don't know.

I eventually found my way around to the quest location... just took a long time to walk through the map due to the odd bridges.

Just flying they would be absurdly quicker. Get a buddy to taxi you to the anther currents, all you have to do is tell them where they need to take you.