Off-trail backpacking

A wager has been made among some of us old-time backpackers that NO-ONE ever does, or used to do, cross country, off trail backpacking. In an attempt to settle the dispute, I’m inviting any serious backpackers to comment on the practice. For those who would like to know what I’m talking about, visit the following web site: http://www.backpackingofftrail.com/
Look that over for the specific type of trips I mean and let me know what you think. If this is of no interest to you, please pass this message along.