Walk grades

Walking in high mountains is quite different from walking through the English countryside and it can be quite helpful to train yourself if you decide to join up on a week-long high mountain trek.

Some trips involve substantial uphill climb, walking out of frequently used paths or even not on paths at all, so it is really important to choose the grade that suits you so that you enjoy your holiday at its best.

Don’t forget - if you overestimate your abilities, then it’ll firstly spoil your holiday and then that of the people you’ll be trekking with.

  Here’s some information on how I grade my walks and treks to help you choose properly :

Easy : for those who have never done any mountain walking but are ready to give it a go. A day walking with last from 4 to 5 hours (breaks not included), and the average uphill climb will be of about 300 to 500m (900 to 1200 ft).

Moderate : you walk or do some kind of sport quite frequently. A day out can mean from 700 to 1000m uphill climbing (2100 to 3000 ft) in about 6 hours. Some portions can be off paths, walking across grassy slopes or easy ground.

Strenuous : uphill climbs of over 1000m (3000 ft), 7 to 8 hours walking per day with portions off paths on steep slopes, scree, etc. Only for experienced walkers used to mountain hikes. Good physical condition required.