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My mom insists she can do the hike with the rest of the group through the guided Parks Service hike.
She isn't in great shape, is overweight, and has bad knees. She thinks she'll be fine and she read that the hike goes at a calm pace.
If you've been on the hike, can you comment? I don't want to ruin her fun if she can really do it, but I am worried
It's all downhill. They take a boat back to Cruz Bay. Should not be too grueling.
RL
The first 14 mile or so of trail is steep. This might be the only part of the hike that is stressful on reconstructed knees. Other than that, I don't see any of the other maladys being a problem.
I find the bigger issue for elderly is the heat. As Ron mentioned the downhill route is not a problem but her ability to deal with the heat & humidity due to being overweight might be. Of course, she will have todeal with that while on the island anyway. If she has an issue with walking around Cruz Bay, don't push Reef Bay.
If you do go, bring plenty of water.
I agree will all the advice above. Also consider on good walking shoes a priority. The trail can be slippery after a rain. The hike is at a calm pace with lots of stops. Be sure to also take bug repellent. The noseeums and mosquitoes are wicked waiting for the boat back to Cruz Bay.
