Its even later in the year than usual, so that gives you another 6 months to get ready. We wanted to make sure the snow wasn't flying in Colorado yet so we could do the 12,000-13,000 foot passes, but also wanted to make sure we didn't hit the extreme temperatures in Moab. Best of both areas hopfully.
Your hiker issue sounds very similar to alot of hikers and bikers we bump into on the trail. I think they under estimate the heat and dehydration issue and the volume of water they are limited in carrying. They get quite a charge out of my cold water plumbing system I have running right to a tap in my dash. Makes for a great conversation peice.
Anymore chatter and they'll make us take this to PM's or email.