| Trail Difficulty Rating System |
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The trail difficulty level represents the degree of challenge that a trail presents to an average user's physical ability and skill. Difficulty levels are based on the trail condition and location factor such as trails alignment, steepness of grade, gain or loss of elevation, length of trip and other appropriate criteria. Easy: Rating includes short trips or mostly level terrain, or both. For those who feel comfortable walking 2 to 4 hours a day on mainly level terrain. Leisurely paced with ample time to enjoy the culture and countryside. Moderate: Rating includes longer trips, rougher terrain and some climbing. For those who feel comfortable walking 2 to 5 hours a day. Walking trails can include smooth and/or uneven footpaths and some ascents up 400ft. Difficult: Rating includes prolonged steep climbing or are longer and more remote. For more experienced hikers who feel comfortable walking 3-6 hours a day. Trails may have an uneven terrain with some steeper ascents from 1,000 to 2,400 ft. You will need to be in good condition to fully enjoy the challenges of this classification. |