headwerkn wrote:You've misread my point. Skill isn't binary, neither is walk difficulty. No matter what your experience level, walking with someone more experienced - or, if you want, with experience in a particular field eg. snow/winter, canyoning, rock climbing - gives you a chance to learn and 'level up' whilst extending your comfort zone. Some of us are fortunate enough to have such people within our friendship or family groups but many don't, and that's where the true value of walking clubs can be found.
Sorry about misunderstanding your point, but your point seems like a justification for clubs having large groups - which is not minimal impact. I agree about learning from experienced bushwalkers, but this does not justify a group of 10-12, the only possible and practical place for groups that large are boardwalks and hardened tracks.