Walk grading

Grading of walks

At our club we use a grading system common to many bushwalking clubs in NSW. Grading information can assist you to decide if the walk is suitable for your level of fitness and experience. However, grading is subjective and must only be taken as a guide, so always ask the walk leader for advice if you are unsure about whether the walk is suitable for you.

The walk leader has full discretion in determining if members or introductory members are accepted for any walk.

The Club’s ethos seeks to undertake more challenging and remote walking with a preference for Grade 4-6 walks.

Recreational Walks (RW) cover Grades 1-3.

Grades

Grade 1 (Easy) - A walk less than 10km on well-marked, even, man-made tracks that are not steep.

Grade 2 (Easy-medium) - A walk less than 15km on well-marked tracks that are not steep and that are mostly of low gradient.

Grade 3 (Medium) - A walk less than 20km with some hilly sections and/or rougher terrain on distinct tracks that may be steep in places, requiring a moderate level of fitness.

Grade 4 (Medium-hard) - A walk for surefooted walkers on steeper, rougher terrain that may have significant off-track sections and rock scrambling, or a lesser grade walk of more than 20km; unsuitable for most beginners.

Grade 5 (Hard) - A walk for fit off-track walkers over difficult terrain that may have steep and uneven sections, long and steep ascents and descents, thick scrub, rock scrambling, creek walking and crossings, or a lesser grade walk of more than 30km.

Grade 6 (Very hard) - A strenuous walk for fit and skilled off-track walkers over challenging terrain that may have steep and uneven sections, very steep and long ascents and descents, thick scrub, rock scrambling, exposure to heights, creek walking and crossings.