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Level 1: applies to trips in which we carry only day packs and stay on maintained trails. Distances range from 3-6 miles, and elevation gain can be as much as 2000 feet. You should be comfortable hiking 3-6 miles in a day with considerable elevation gain/loss on good trails.

Level 2: primarily applies to trips in which we carry only day packs. In one day we can cover up to 9 miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 7 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged, less-maintained trails. If a backpacking trip has a Level 2 rating, it means the distances are 2-4 miles with little elevation gain/loss. For a Level 2 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a light day pack.

Level 3: applies to backpacking trips in which we hike with 25-35 pound backpacks. In one day we can cover up to 7 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain on maintained trails, or up to 5 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain on more rugged trails. For a Level 3 trip you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack.

Level 4: denotes trips on established but rugged, unmaintained trails with multi-day backpacks (30-40 pounds). The hiking can be steep and sustained with long daily distances (up to 9 miles) and significant elevation change (up to 4,000 feet). You should be comfortable running/biking/hiking for several hours without many breaks.

Level 5: applies to trips on very rugged trails or off-trail with multi-day backpacks (35-45 pounds). Expect prolonged, rugged hiking with very strenuous, difficult sections. Terrain can be steep, loose, rocky and/or exposed. You must be able to exercise vigorously at home (extended runs, swims, bike rides, etc.) to join a hike with a "5" rating.