TRAIL RATING AND ETIQUETTE

Rating Symbol	Brief Definition	Surface	Grade	Obstacles/ Steps
easiest	Paved Accessible Trail	Paved or hard and smooth		None
easy	Mostly smooth and wide	Dirt with occasional unevenness		2" or less, rocks and ruts
moderate	Mostly smooth, variable width	Dirt with occasional unevenness		<8" rocks and ruts, loose material
moderate difficult	Mostly uneven surfaces	Dirt and rock		<12" rocks and ruts, loose material
difficult	Long rocky segments with possible drops and exposure	Dirt and loose rock with continual unevenness		12" or taller, loose rocks, exposure to drops
extremely difficult	Long rocky segments with possible drops and exposure	Dirt and loose rock with continual unevenness		12" or taller, loose rocks, exposure to drops and excessive heat >90F

Trail Rating Card / Black and White Trail Rating Card

Know your ability and choose the right trail

Each year, more than 200 people require rescue while hiking in parks and preserves.

Choosing a trail that matches your ability helps you stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.

Essential Safety Tips

ALWAYS:

• Stay on designated trails.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Carry enough water for your entire hike, including water for pets.
• Turn around when your water supply is half gone.
• Bring a charged cellphone.
• Avoid hiking alone.
• Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing.
• Bring a map, know your route, and understand the terrain.

ADDITIONAL OUTDOOR SAFETY REMINDERS:

Carry a Bandana

• A bandana is lightweight and useful for many situations.
• If you begin to feel overheated, wet the bandana and place it on the back of your neck or on your forehead.
• Move to a shaded area, such as under a tree or shrub, to cool down.

Understand Map Miles vs. Effort Miles

• On well-maintained trails, hikers may travel up to 2.5 miles per hour.
• On most trails, expect a pace closer to 1 to 1.5 miles per hour, especially if you stop to rest, take photos, or enjoy the scenery.
• Hiking uphills requires more time and energy. A 1,000-foot climb adds the effort of about one extra mile and may require an additional 10-20 minutes.
• Downhill hiking may not be faster if the trail is rocky or uneven.

Watch for Wildlife

• Be alert for rattlesnakes, especially at night or during cooler temperatures when they be more active.

Carry Signaling tools

Items that can help in an emergency include:

• A whistle.
• A signal mirror.
• A brightly colored panel.
• Matches or another fire-starting tool (where permitted).

Practice Leave No Trace

• Pack out all trash.
• Protect plants and wildlife.
• Help keep trails enjoyable for everyone by minimizing your impact on the natural environment.