What is "Degree of Difficulty"

All the trails profiled in Trails of Halifax Regional Municipality are assigned a numerical rating from 1-3 that indicates my evaluation of their degree of difficulty. A trail with a rating of "1" indicates it as being suitable for all fitness and experience levels. A route listed as a "3" is recommended only for more experienced and fit outdoor people.

I assigned ratings based upon considerations of length, elevation change, condition of treadway, and signage. The base rating is founded on distance. Any trail up to 5-km is considered to be level "1", unless other characteristics, such as a steep climb, might increase its rating. Similarly, a trail from 5-10-km will be rated "2". No trail is rated "3" based only upon its length.

If the terrain over which the trail passes is rocky or difficult, or there is significant elevation change, the rating will be increased by one or even two levels. On the other hand, on level, paved or crushed stone covered routes such as rail-trails or municipal parks, the rating may be decreased by one level, even for longer routes.

Any hike rated as a "3" will include an indication of what qualifies them for this higher rating. And any route, regardless of distance, where more than basic navigation skills are required, will automatically receive a "3" rating.

Novices, or those wanting a family walk, should choose level "1" and "2" ranked hikes initially, and work up to higher rated routes as only they gain experience. This should ensure that the hiking experience you select is suitable for everyone.