LEVELS OF HIKING

TIPS

It is helpful to distinguish between different levels of hiking when planning your next trip. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important to select a route that matches your fitness and experience. You don’t want to start a hike on a level that is too high or a walk that is a bit too easy. The difficulty of a hike is generally determined by three key elements: distance, elevation gain, and terrain type. Based on these factors, we categorize hikes into five levels: Easy, intermediate, challenging, difficult and very difficult.

Easy hike

The most accessible level of hiking is often referred to as a "walk." These routes are suitable for individuals of all ages with a basic level of fitness. This means that you have enough energy to be able to exercise on a non-intense level. Hikes in this category cover no more than 10 kilometers with less than 500 meters of elevation gain. They typically follow well-maintained paths with plenty of opportunities to rest, such as picnic areas or benches. These are usually one-day outings lasting between 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace.

 

Distance: Up to 10 kilometers

Elevation Gain: Under 500 meters

Duration: 3 to 5 hours

Terrain: Smooth, well-marked hiking trails with frequent places to rest.

Intermediate hike

Intermediate hikes require a higher level of physical conditioning. They are ideal for hikers who exercise regularly or hit the trail at least once a month. These routes often cover at least 15 kilometers with approximately 800 meters of elevation gain. While they may lead over unpaved roads or uneven surfaces, no specialized technical skills are required. These one-day hikes generally take 4 to 6 hours to complete.

 

Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers

Elevation Gain: Around 800 meters

Duration: 4 to 6 hours

Terrain: May include unpaved roads and uneven surfaces. No technical skills are required, but steady footwork is helpful.

*Incidentally, this may also concern hikes that cover somewhat longer distances and fewer elevation gain.

Challenging hike

Challenging hikes require previous experience and significant stamina. We recommend these routes for those who are accustomed to full-day excursions and possess good physical endurance. These hikes typically involve more than 1,000 meters of elevation gain and distances exceeding 15 kilometers per day, requiring 5 to 7 hours of active walking.

 

These routes often traverse rugged trails and difficult surfaces. The combination of steep ascents and long distances makes these hikes challenging. When you go for a hike in this category ensure you carry sufficient food and water. Are you going for a multi-day trip you even need to have more to pack. If you are planning a multi-day trip, take a look at my packing list to ensure you have all the essential gear.

 

Distance: 15+ kilometers

Elevation Gain: Over 1,000 meters

Duration: 5 to 7 hours

Terrain: Varied surfaces, including steep sections and difficult-to-walk paths.

Difficult hike

A hike is classified as difficult when it involves technical terrain and sustained physical effort. These routes often traverse rugged mountain paths, scree slopes, and steep ascents. You need to climb when undertaking a difficult hike, spread over the whole hike this needs to be at least 1.000 meters of altitude. Technical necessities are sometimes used during these hikes, but knowledge of these products is not necessary. An optimal physical condition and stamina are essential for practicing these hikes.

 

Experience with mountain hiking is necessary because these hikes can take a full day, anywhere from 6 to 9 hours of walking. At this level, it is important to carefully evaluate your equipment and plan your overnight accommodations in advance.

 

Distance: Variable (Full day)

Elevation Gain: Minimum 1,000 meters

Duration: 6 to 9 hours

Terrain: Rough trails, rocks, and potentially exposed sections.

Requirements: Optimal physical condition and previous experience in mountain environments are essential. While technical climbing gear isn't always required, familiarity with mountain safety is necessary.

Very difficult hike

This category includes expeditions through extremely technical and remote terrain. These routes traverse rugged landscapes that demand peak physical condition and, in some cases, basic mountaineering skills or knowledge of securing techniques. These adventures often span several days, covering long distances with substantial elevation changes. Due to the complexity of the landscape, advanced planning and specialized experience are required.

 

Distance: Usually multiday/Long distance

Elevation Gain: Extreme/Substantial

Terrain: Remote, rugged, and often off-trail.

Requirements: Hikers must be in peak physical condition. In many cases, basic mountaineering skills and knowledge of securing techniques are required. These adventures often involve complex logistics and specialized equipment.