I hope this picture shows up OK when viewed over the Internet. One of the bad characteristics of digital cameras is their poor tolerance for contrasty scenes. This picture had to be lightened considerably in order to even see adventurers.

The trail down to Horseshoe is treacherous. It is narrow, rocky and, in the winter months, covered with snow and ice. At this point the packs are wider than the trail and the rock face tended to interfere with progress, upsetting ones balance. The 'downside' risk is obvious. The careful hiker succeeds is maintaining clean underwear while taking in an absolutely spectacular view.