WALKING GRADES

EASY Less than 5 hours walking per day at a gentle pace with less than 500m (1650 feet) ascent/descent. Generally good paths on undulating terrain with gentle gradients. Anybody in reasonable health should enjoy this grade of walking. No previous walking experience required.
MODERATE Walks of between 5-7 hours, with the odd longer day and less than 700m (2400 feet) ascent/descent. Generally on good paths although there could be steeper sections with rough conditions underfoot. You should have experience of day walking, and be in reasonable health.
MODERATE/CHALLENGING Walks of between 5-8 hours, with up to 1000m (3300 feet) ascent/descent in the day. Mountainous or rough paths, with some long steep sections. There could be limited back-packing, carrying overnight gear for 1 night. You should have recent experience of day walking with a reasonable level of fitness.
CHALLENGING Walks of between 5-9 hours, with altitude gains of up to 1500m per day involving prolonged ascents/descents. Mountainous paths with sections of rough mountainous terrain and easy scrambling (using hands for stability and assistance). These holidays may be made more difficult by factors such as altitude, limited backpacking or the occasional very long day. You should be a regular walker, with a good level of fitness and have a good head for heights.

Please note: More specific information about the walks are provided with each holiday. Some holidays may be graded at a level intermediate between the above grades, for example Moderate +.