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Trip Difficulty Levels

Level 1 of 5

This trip is accessible for all levels and requires little to no preparation for physical activities planned. Potential for daily walking (such as city tours), water activities, or other low intensity physical activities depending on the destination.  Activities are more likely to be flexible and optional.  Accessible to those with limited mobility.

Level 2 of 5

This trip is accessible for all levels and requires little to no preparation for physical activities planned. Potential for leisurely day hikes with possible elevation gain, water activities (such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, etc), or other low intensity physical activities (light biking) depending on the destination.  Activities are more likely to be flexible and optional. Participants must be physically mobile (i.e. able to get in and out of a boat, etc).

Level 3 of 5

No prior hiking/kayaking experience required, however multi-hour sustained physical exertion will be required to reach destinations. Potential elevation gain, up to 6 hours of movement per day.  Ability to carry a day pack with a hydration bladder. Physical activities are not optional. For water trips currents can be unpredictable. 

Level 4 of 5

No prior backpacking experience required, however prior hiking experience strongly recommended with the ability to carry a heavy pack. For backpacking trips, must be able to carry a 35+ lb pack for multiple days on trail for sustained daily time regardless of terrain and weather conditions.. For non backpacking trips, expect significant elevation gain and variable terrain.

Level 5 of 5

Prior hiking and backpacking experience required. For backpacking trips, must be able to carry a 35+ lb pack for multiple days on trail for sustained daily time regardless of terrain and weather conditions. For non backpacking trips, expect significant elevation gain and variable terrain.

Level 5+

Extremely difficult hiking conditions, lengths, terrain, temperature, and altitude.  Prior hiking and trekking experience required.