dug said:
You are correct. Way out of line. Mea culpa.
Cool.
So, I agree that there can be overzealousness by people who wish to protect the alpine zone flora, but as long as there are no laws forbidding off-trail travel in the White Mountains I'll just let it go.
I know that many alpine species can survive being crushed. The leaves, flowers, branches or stems will grow back. But so what?! Right now, it's crushed!!! This is like people who litter or deficate on the trail and say "no permanent damage, someone will eventually come by and clean up after me." Well, in the meantime, the place is trashed. If people litter each day, then the place always has litter. Likewise, if the flora is crushed on a regular basis, then it is always on the mend instead of being healthy and happy.
When I'm off-trail in the alpine zone, I go to whatever length neccessary to avoid stepping on any plant. It doesn't make you an eco-nazi to avoid stepping on alpine plants. In paying close attention to the plants and making a conscious effort to do them no harm, even temporary harm, I feel a sense of belonging.
It sounds like the AMC has changed their tune regarding off-trail travel in the alpine zone. Five years ago, I was severely harrassed by an AMC guide for being off-trail on the summit cone of Mt. Washington. Glad they've lightened up a bit.
Happy Trails