1 Easy
Easy walking. Well maintained trails with average distance typically around 6 miles or less per day. May involve a few short ascents / descents but generally at a low-level.
2 Easy to Moderate
Easy-to-moderate walking with some ascents / descents but generally not too strenuous. Average daily distance typically between 6 and 10 miles, with the possibility of the occasional longer day. Walks are typically on generally well-maintained and waymarked trails but may occasionally involve mixed / rougher terrain.
3 Moderate
Moderate walking with regular and on occasion some longer and steeper ascents / descents to be expected. Average daily distance typically between 10 and 12 miles, with the possibility of the occasional longer day. Terrain may be rougher and along more rugged paths including rocky areas.
4 Moderate to Challenging
Moderate to Challenging Walking. Long days and plenty of sustained ascents and descents, some steep, to be expected. Average daily distance typically between 12 and 15 miles, with the possibility of the occasional longer day. Mountain and hill walking, often rugged underfoot. Navigation could be more difficult in poorer weather conditions. There may be some exposed sections that require a head for heights.
5 Challenging
Challenging walking. A number of very long days, a number of which may be 15 miles and more. For very experienced hikers with a high level of fitness and stamina. Navigation skills may be required. May include steep ascents and descents over rough and varied terrain and in high mountain regions.
Notes
Walking holidays following a National Trail or long distance path offer wonderful long days following ancient trails and bridleways. Our itineraries generally involve walking between 10-15 miles a day. Many Coastal paths will have more ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ adding up to nearer 500m on some days.
Grading a walk is always subjective. ‘Easy/moderate’ grade for a regular walker may be moderate/demanding to someone used to flat countryside. Importantly, also, poor weather conditions can change the day’s expectation of walking conditions and demand.