Difficulty Trail / Path Rating System
EASY
The hike is mostly level with easy hills mixed in and the walking is relatively smooth. You can certainly expect tree roots, small rocks, and things of that sort during your walk.
EASY/MODERATE
For an easy/moderate hike, you should be prepared for a some uphill walking. Overall the uphills will be on the gentle side but there may be some short steeper sections.
MODERATE
Hikes rated moderate are generally on established trails that can be rocky, have exposed tree roots, small rocks, and things of that sort and can be a little steep in places.
DIFFICULT
This level is used for challenging hikes. This category is for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Because of poorly defined trails or off-trail situations, it is important that hikers on hard hikes stay together for safety reasons, so those attending must be capable of keeping up with the group and going the whole distance.