since this isn't really a debate by old_rookie (Login rookieVoyager)

I see where you are coming pghportager and agree with most of what you say including that PMAs, as they exist now, are only for the experienced traveler.

If what pk and bogs are guessing as to why the PMAs were formed to begin with (to save money) then I think the SF should let volunteers do minimal portage clearing. By minimal, I would say downed tree removal. No gravel highways. I would also keep the other rules the same: requiring permit endorsement, one party per segment, etc.

How does the SF police the current policy on PMA use? Has anyone ever seen a ranger bushwhacking or met one in a PMA? How many people enter PMAs improperly?

Wouldn't it be better to open up, even slightly, some more acreage in the park by making the PMAs at least a little more accessible? Wouldn't that help the overcrowding and campsite abuse a little?

pghportage, as to your comment about traveling from Lake A to Lake B by taking the shortest route and crashing through: is that really "leave no trace"?

I'd also like to "throw another log on to the fire": I think some PMA boundaries should be expanded to include some lakes that are in "no-man's-land" like Yodeler. It's somewhat hard to get to (requires bogwalking) but there are no legal campsites on it. Why not? Either add an official campsite to it or include it in a PMA.

Just some thoughts. No argument. No debate.