My husband and I are in our 60s. We enjoy high elevation hikes as well as river hikes. Our dog is not fond of water or bridges but she gives it her all to get across what we ask her to. So with these challenges we are still able to get to most of the Middle and North Cascades hikes. We just can't go over 8 miles if the elevation is up there. I hope this helps if this is comparable to you also.