EXPLANATION OF TRIP GRADES

Easy
Suitable for most people in good health. Trips include short hikes of three to four hours or optional longer walks at low altitude. Participants are required to carry only their day packs. On many trips, you can elect to skip a day’s activities. Accommodations may be in hotels, lodges or permanent camps.

Moderate
Suitable for most people in good physical condition capable of sustained activity. Trips involve hiking over variable terrain at elevations up to 12,000 feet for four to six hours and may involve exposure to the elements. Some activities may be optional. Participants may be responsible for carrying their personal gear or hiring a porter. Trips may involve long overland travel, multiple day rafting trips with Class III/IV rapids, sea kayaking, horseback riding or biking. Accommodations may involve local lodges, rustic guesthouses and either fixed or mobile camps.

Strenuous
Physically very challenging, but suitable for hikers who are used to extended days. These trips may involve hiking over steep or more rugged terrain, extended exposure to the elements or where elevations exceed 12,000 feet. Trips may be to remote wilderness areas where vehicle support is unavailable and may require participants to carry full pack for the duration of the trip. Activities may involve extended day rafting trips with Class IV/V rapids, kayaking, horseback riding or biking or Scuba diving in rough or colder water. Accommodations may involve rustic guesthouses or mobile camps.