Trail Difficulty Ratings

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How do you know if a trail is the right match for your skill level? On this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we explore the fascinating world of trail difficulty ratings and give you the tools to decode them like a pro.

Join us as we dive into how trail difficulty is determined, breaking down the factors that influence these ratings, such as elevation gain, distance, terrain type, and weather conditions. We'll guide you through the different rating systems used around the world, from beginner-friendly green trails to challenging black diamonds, and discuss why a “moderate” trail might feel easy to some but grueling to others.

Want to find trail difficulty ratings before your hike? We’ll share tips on where to look—whether it's apps, websites, or on-site trailhead signs—and explain what to do when no official rating is ...