That was a tough hike, but with great views overlooking Cuenca!

There are a lot of hiking opportunities around Cuenca, but we wanted one that gave us a view of the city. So Ruth found a trailhead that began about 7 kms away and we took a taxi there. Taxis are cheap in Cuenca and it cost $3.50 USD ($4.80 CAD).

We may have bitten off more than we chew.

The hike was to the top of Pico de Pescado. It was only 2.2 miles (3.5 kms) one way... but it gained 3000' (900 meters) in altitude over that short distance. And of course we were already at 8,500' when we were starting the hike.

On the trail.

It was wet and muddy in places.

Heading higher.

Things sure are nice and green.

Starting to get a view.

Cuenca.

Pretty Ennealophus foliosus, which is in the Iris family

I took a short video for you...

I'm sure that parts of this trail were used by the Incas!

We were sitting on a rock taking a break when I heard some barking and saw a pack of dogs in the distance running towards us. There was a local guy as well. The dogs arrived and when they saw that we were friendly, they instantly became friendly as well. It was pretty funny.

Ruth, the dog whisperer.

Too funny,

Heading higher.

One of the very few flat sections.

Beautiful scenery.

Cuenca.

Came around the corner to see that the path went straight up this hill.

That's where we called it quits, at 10,770'.

View from where we sat and had lunch.

Zoomed in on the city center.

Cuenca airport is located right in the city.

You can see the runway.

Where we sat and had lunch.

We were a bit disappointed that we didn't make it to the top. But we haven't done much hiking lately, so weren't in the best of hiking condition. Plus, it was going to be a difficult and slippery climb back down. I think we made the right decision not to continue further. Still, for a couple of 64 year olds, we did pretty well on a tough hike.

We only saw two locals, and one expat on the entire hike... a younger guy from Colorado who has been living here for 8 years and does this hike regularly as a training exercise.

Making our way back down.

Pretty flowers.

On the way back, we were lucky to get a taxi going the opposite way. He dropped us at a Supermarket where we picked up some beer and wine.

We saw this rig with Swiss license plates parked at the grocery store.

Roadside food stand.

Roast guinea pig is a popular dish.

This is a common sight in Ecuador as well.

Overall, a great day despite not making it to the top!

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