The writer replies
By disregarding the impacts that we backpackers may have on remote areas, we sully more than just the reputation of one author or magazine, we sully the reputation of all backpackers, most of whom are responsible. Wild places are assailed enough by developers. Shouldn’t the backpacking community — particularly a leading voice like Backpacker — police itself from adding to the stresses on sensitive off-trail locales? If Backpacker is unable to leave a legacy of untrammeled wild places for our future generations, then who will?
Sean Neilson
Gustavus, Alaska