Trip Ratings

Ski Ratings

The ski ratings are presented in a step fashion, but actual ability is a continuum. Don’t think so much of how long you’ve been skiing to rate yourself as much as how you like to ski. Always “rate down” if unsure and discuss it with the tour leader for any questions or reservations you may have. Please do not attempt a trip that is beyond your ability; you could endanger yourself or others in your party.

Absolute Novice: You have never skied but are eager to learn. Our tours are not designed for you. Please check out some available lessons in our area.

Beginner: You have skied before, recreationally or in a lesson (alpine or Nordic). You feel more comfortable on trails designated as “green”, typically 2–5 miles slow-paced day trips over gentle terrain. This allows you to practice basic techniques under more forgiving conditions. Leaders will not teach skiers how to ski but will help what they can.

Intermediate: You’re comfortable on varied terrain and moderate hills, typical “blue” trails that require better technique and fitness. You can ski at a moderate pace and speed, can stop safely, and make snowplow turns. You know the difference between and can perform some classic techniques (diagonal stride, double poling) and/or skate techniques (1-skate, 2-skate, offset).

Intermediate-Advanced: You have skied for many seasons. You’re confident in your skills. You can handle steeper hills and ski for longer times. You regularly like to venture into the black when conditions feel right.

Advanced : You can handle tours longer than 10 miles with significant elevation changes and steeper pitches at moderate to fast pace. You have strong and solid skiing skills and endurance and advanced techniques, such as telemarking and/or skating.

All Abilities: Any combination of skill levels. The trip is appropriate for all - you're likely to find someone with similar skills and places to ski

Ratings may be abbreviated as Beg, Int, Int-Adv, Adv, or All.

Hiking

Easy: < 8 miles; 200 ft. per mile elevation gain.

Intermediate: 8–10 miles; 200–400 ft. per mile elevation gain.

Advanced: > 10 miles; 400 ft. per mile elevation gain; steady pace and/or difficult terrain (a workout).

Biking

Easy (casual jaunt): Mostly flat terrain; 8–10 m.p.h. pace; frequent regrouping.

Intermediate (recreational cruise): Moderate terrain with rolling hills (some short steep hills); 10–14 m.p.h. pace; regrouping when appropriate.

Advanced (fast): Difficult terrain with one or more major hills/series of longer, steeper hills; 15–18 m.p.h. pace; regrouping when necessary.