What does a 'Strenuous' walk actually involve?

It typically means a hike of ten miles or more with 500–1,000 m of ascent, rough or steep terrain, possible scrambling, and the need for good boots, poles and solid navigation skills.

How can I tell if a walk labeled 'Easy' is suitable for my family?

Easy walks are usually under five miles, have less than about 100 m of gain, follow well-maintained, sign-posted paths and require only basic footwear, making them safe for children and casual walkers.

Do I need a map and compass for a Moderate walk?

You don’t strictly need them if the route is clear, but carrying a map and knowing basic navigation is wise in case the weather turns or the path becomes hard to follow.

Planning

Understanding Walking Grades

Walking grades combine distance, ascent, terrain difficulty and navigation complexity into a single rating. Understanding what Easy, Moderate, Strenuous and Challenging actually mean in physical terms helps you choose routes that match your ability.

29 July 20269 min read