Yesterdays hike alongside the Rio Verde was tougher than I thought, but the stunning scenery & cooling waters helped. 1st time in 20+ years I have done this popular hike.
Marked by meeting helpful & caring fellow hikers eager to assist some of our less mobile members over difficult sections. This contrasted with others that only cared about themselves & their own progress at the expense of others. Sometimes I just despair of humanity!
Local Canyoning guides here seem to be the worst. They think they own the place and we are supposed to clear a path for them, the supposed experts. Arrogant and superior.
I've had numerous run-ins with alpine guides too who are, unsurprisingly, traveling faster with 2 on a rope, than me with 3. They frequently crossed and trod over our ropes in their haste for upwards progress. One even celebrated on reaching a belay faster than me, leaving me hanging around on 2 axes. Mountain fellowship goes by the wayside with these people. Speed and making money takes precedence.
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