German Shepherds and Cliffs

Last week we went on a hike around the perimeter of Ouray, Colorado. The hike lasted about three hours. We passed many cliffs, with Molly off leash, and she stayed with us. Near the end of the hike you cross a rocky field with big drop offs, and she was still okay. (This is all around 9000 foot altitude.)

But near the end of the hike was the big challenge, for us and for Molly.

You have to cross a metal MESH bridge that crosses a deep gorge with a waterfall cascading. AAH VERTIGO! Since I could only go about four steps before rushing backwards, my husband went first. Since Molly doesn't like humans separating, she rushed across the mesh without problem, and I kept my eyes up and my mouth closed and crouch walked across.

On the other side you enter a CAVE, black except light at the end. People were coming the other way and thought she was a WOLF!

Okay, got through that too, but here's where I want advice, in case we ever go back.

After you come out of the cave, you have to go down a narrow and steep trail with big cliff drop off to the side. The footing is so insecure that they have a cable along the side of the hill to hold onto (cling to). I kept Molly on her leash here because just the thought of her looking over makes me dizzy, but it made the descent more difficult for her.

But do dogs have natural cliff/height sense? I've seen her throw herself on a pile of elk [email protected]@p and roll down a little hill as an unintended result.

Here's a sketch of what it was like. Think I should leave her on the leash or is she better off free moving?