Trail Ratings according to Michael Haynes
A designation from 1 to 5, with 1 indicating suitability for all fitness and experience levels and 5 indicating suitability only for experienced and very fit outdoor people. These ratings are based on considerations of length, elevation change, condition of treadway and signage.
Novices should choose level 1 and 2 hikes initially, and work up with experience. Level 4 and 5 hikes include an indication of what qualifies them for their higher rating.
Trail Ratings from the American Volkssport Association
| Part 1 – Incline | Part 2 – Terrain |
| 1. Very small hills or very little stair climbing. Probably suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Elevation gain from starting point: up to 500 feet | A. Almost entirely on pavement. Probably suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. |
| 2. Some moderate hills and stair climbing. Probably suitable for strollers. May not be suitable for wheelchairs. Elevation gain from starting point: 500-1500 feet | B. A significant part of the route is on well-groomed trails with very few obstacles. Probably suited for strollers but may not be suitable for wheelchairs. |
| 3. Some significant hill or stair climbing. Not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Elevation gain from starting point: 1500-2500 feet | C. A significant part of the route is on somewhat difficult terrain (rocky/rooted paths or soft sand). Not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. |
| 4. Lots of significant hills or stair climbing. Elevation gain from starting point: 2500-3500 feet | D. A significant part of the route is on very difficult terrain. |
| 5. Many steep hills. Elevation gain from starting point: more than 3500 feet | E. The majority of the route is on very difficult terrain. |
Examples:
A route that is mostly on flat pavement would be rated 1A.
A beach walk would be rated 1C.
A route with moderate hills on well groomed trails would be rated 2B.
From http://www.aztrekkers.org/AVA_STUFF.htm
A simplified table:
| Part 1 – Incline | Part 2 – Terrain |
1. Very small hills   |
A. Almost entirely on pavement. |
| 2. Some moderate hills. |
B. Well-groomed trails. |
| 3. Some significant hills. | C. Somewhat difficult terrain. |
| 4. Lots of significant hills. | D. Difficult terrain. |
| 5. Many steep hills. | E. Very difficult terrain throughout. |
