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grades & fitness

There is a wonderful variety of mountain walks to be had, each with their own appearance, character, atmosphere, outlook and uniqueness. The steepest routes are not necessarily the most scenic or desirable nor should be necessarily aspired to. Infact it is far more enjoyable to walk within you capability, an easy relaxing route can be just as rewarding, a healthy challenge at times fits the bill, but avoiding a panic zone!

GRADES of WALKING	DESCRIPTION	LENGTH	FITNESS REQUIRED
LEISURELY	casual walking, low altitude, very gentle slopes or flat, no particular exertion or challenges, generally good paths, tracks or beach	1-3 hours vaired to suit	able to walk min of 3 km
EASY	gentle slopes, easy steps, low levels, no extremes, slight but manageable exertion required	2-4 hours varied to suit	able to walk min of 5 km
MEDIUM	moderate slopes, heights up to 700m	3-5 hours	able to walk over 10 km
MEDIUM +	moderate slopes, heights up to 800m, some loose ground may be encountered, some extremes of temperature	4-6 hours	able to walk, sure-footed, max of 15 km
DIFFICULT	walking stamina requires up Snowdonia's highest mountains, surefootedness required	5-7 hours	may walk more than 15 km
MOST DIFFICULT	Mixed, often uneven terrain, ridges, scree &/or scrambling likely, balance, sure-footedness, stamina and endurane required, extremes of temperatures and winds, challenging	6-8 hours	a long, hard but rewarding day out, may be long distances!