Our Adventure Grading Explained
Many factors contribute to the difficulty of the trail, including the daily mileage, terrain type, route profile, technicality and even the typical weather conditions of the area. Our grading scheme offers a general indication of an activity’s difficulty to help you decide which walk or course best matches with your experience, ability and fitness level.
Stile-Free
Walks graded as Stile-Free are our more accessible walks. These activities are designed for people looking for easier, flatter or shorter distance walks without obstacles such as stiles, and therefore are ideal for beginners, less agile walkers or those looking for a more relaxed amble. Our Stile-Free walks mainly involve level walking on good surfaces, however they may include a few short ascents/descents and some varied or uneven terrain.
Easy
Walks or courses graded as Easy may involve a few short ascents/descents and varied terrain. This grade allows for walks of a moderate length of generally between 5-10km and are ideal for novice walkers and for those who enjoy exploring at a more relaxed pace.
Moderate
Walks or courses graded as Moderate may involve some longer or steeper ascents/descents or longer low level walks. The terrain will be varied and paths may be uneven underfoot. These are generally suitable for regular walkers with a good level of fitness.
Demanding
Walks or courses graded as Demanding are typically more challenging, with longer/steeper ascents/descents or longer low level walks. The terrain will be varied and paths could be rough or rocky in places and may include some high-level routes, ridge-walking and short sections of non-technical scrambling. These are suitable for experienced walkers with a strong level of fitness and a good head for heights.
Strenuous
Walks or courses graded as Strenuous involve long, challenging walking days with some prolonged and steep ascents/descents or longer lower level walking. The terrain will be varied but could include rough hill tracks, boggy ground, boulder fields and mountain tops. There may be some ridge-walking or short non-technical scrambling so a good head for heights is helpful. A strong level of fitness and significant mountain walking experience are both essential at this level.
Please note that some activities may sit between two difficulty grades, displaying as Easy/Moderate, for example. This is usually due to the itinerary having a mixture of aspects that do not comfortably fit within one grade. For example, the terrain may be Easy while the daily mileages are more Moderate.
If you require assistance with choosing the right level for you, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you.