On our trips, I am in front, and my wife behind. That's simply because I hike faster. But I never get more than 100 yards ahead so we keep in contact pretty much.

She tends to look down and seen things on the ground like mushrooms and animal tracks. I tend to look up to see the bigger views in the distance. It's a nice combination.
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Check our our website: http://www.backpackthesierra.com/

Or just read a good mystery novel set in the Sierra; https://www.amazon.com/Danger-Falling-Rocks-Paul-Wagner/dp/0984884963