I have given up on making miles count when I'm Bpacking. Well most of the time. I'm out there to enjoy the sights,sounds and smells of the woods. Certain times of the year you can find Morell mushrooms and I will definatly take the time to pick enough for dinner. If I section hike, I will try to maintain my pace but if something interesting catches my eye, I will spend the time to check it out. Sometimes just stop and take a mid day nap. If I'm with a group and they leave me behind it's o.k. we can meet up at a certain destination. I can't see myself trying to live off the land. The time I get to spend in the woods is precious to me and I like to carry decent food to eat. At the cost of slower travel. Especially first night meals.