Dangerous act?

I realize that article in Departure Points was writ- ten by a high-school student with good intentions (“Go Ahead, Take That Step,” Jan. 21).

Nevertheless, it encourages a dangerous scenario known to every experienced hiker: hiking alone or with strangers you meet in the wilderness.

Although the author gives lip service to “danger that lurks in the wilderness... and playing it safe,” she encourages leaving your hiking companions (in this case, her parents), going off by yourself and trusting people you do not know.

Believe me, as a life-long hiker all over the world, this is a recipe for disaster, particularly for a young person.

Her naivete is understood, but your publication encourages a dangerous act. Michael Miller Los Angeles