The descent

The descent was relentless. The unsteady rocky ground below us was relentless. Our path varied from steep scramble to something sometimes more level. We were passing through a dry riverbed, over the debris of a steep canyon. The more difficult part? The constant twisting of your ankles. Not once do you step on flat steady ground. Not once does you foot feel safe. And all the while we are rushing. Why are we rushing? Doug wants to rush.

At times we fall behind and then they stop and wait, we catch up. But always we are behind. It's hard work and makes us miss the ease of the initial climb. But despite the difficulty and the pain on our feet the views around are worth it...just.

On only one occasion did the drop seem dangerous when neither of us, with our short legs, could reach a ledge below. Doug anticipated this and for once held back waiting for us and guided our feet down.