The following guide can help you choose a trek or climb that best suits your fitness level and experience. Please keep n mind that this is a general guide only. A variety of factors, including weather, may add to the challenge. Trekking Grades Easy walking; no special physical preparation required; usually on very good paths or trails; generally at lower altitudes; no previous experience required. Walking up to 7 hours a day; possibility of walking on snow and glaciers; general good fitness and physical preparation preferred (e.g., jogging or hiking both uphill and downhill 6-8 weeks before arrival); increased time at higher altitudes; no previous experience required.
As above, with additional very long days; crossing high altitude passes over difficult terrain in remote areas; excellent physical condition required with a positive attitude and a strong determination; ropes and climbing equipment (e.g., ice axe and crampons) may be used; previous hiking/camping experience preferred. Climbing
Grades Ice axe and crampons may be used; ropes may be fixed if necessary; usually on low angle snow slopes; previous climbing experience preferred.
Ice axe and crampons will be used; ropes
may be fixed and used where necessary; slopes become steeper or route
more exposed; glacier travel with the risk of hidden crevasses; previous
mountaineering experience required. All mountaineering expeditions - Ice axe and crampons will be used extensively; ropes will be fixed where necessary; very steep slopes, exposed ridges, and very long, hard days at high altitude; cramped conditions; glacier travel with hidden crevasses; exposure to serious immediate danger; previous high altitude climbing and expedition experience required. |