Our Hike/Walk Ratings

We have our own Escaping Your Comfort Zone hike/walk ratings.  The reason for this is that we frequently find that hike ratings published by other organisations are not specific enough for participants to truly know what to expect, and know whether a hike is suitable with them.  The other issue we find with external hike descriptions is that the definition of "beginner" is not clear.  Many times "beginner" assumes a certain level of general fitness or stamina, without allowing for participants who are starting from absolute scratch.

First Steps (FS) – Max Distance 3km

MUST BE WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY.  These walks are specifically intended for those who want to get out into nature, but have physical or health matters that may limit movement (chronic pain, return from injury, people who might be exercising for the first time, people who may need to be close to bathrooms and/or people who may have vulnerabilities that require emotional support). All of our hikes are body positive, but these walks have an even stronger emphasis on this. Open only to hikers who specifically need trails like this. 

Australian Walking Track Grading* – 1

Slow & Steady (S&S) – Max Distance 7kms

These walks/hikes are beginner friendly, for those without specific mobility concerns, and always paced at the slowest in the group, to ensure no one is left behind. These usually take between 1.5-2.5hrs to complete, and are usually 3.5-5kms (max 7kms). The trails may be compacted gravel, or dirt, with some stairs, short hills, or small obstacles.

Australian Walking Track Grading* – 1/2

More Challenging (MC) – Max Distance 15km

These hikes are designed to present more of a challenge than the Slow & Steady, but with the same body positive message, and the same “walk at the pace of the slowest person” approach. Some bush walking experience is recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections a rough surface and many steps. There may be more than 200m of ascent. More Challenging (MC) hikes will specifically list the distance and terrain in the description.  This may also include overnight hikes.

Australian Walking Track Grading* – 3

More Challenging Plus (MC+) - Max distance – 20km

Previous bushwalking experience is required for these hikes. Participants must have joined us on another hike before attempting these hikes, or should contact the leader, so we can be sure the hike is right for the participant. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, and trails may be remote, or in alpine areas.  This also includes overnight hikes.  

Australian Walking Track Grading* – 3-4

 *For reference, we have also listed the Australian Walking Track Grading values for each hike as a guide.  We have added more detail to our own ratings above, but some of our hikers may find it helpful to see the AWT grades as well.   In March 2011 the Council of Bushwalking Australia endorsed the Australian Walking Track Grading System, a voluntary walking track standard.  The Australian Walking Track Grading System is a nationally consistent system to grade the level of difficulty of the track walking experience and then to clearly communicate that information to walkers.