Degree of Difficulty

All the trails profiled in Hiking Trails of Ottawa are assigned a numerical rating from 1-5 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 with a "5" is recommended only for experienced and very fit outdoor people.

These ratings are given 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", a route 10-15-km long will be rated "3", 15-20-km rated "4", and anything longer than 20-km will automatically receive a "5" ranking.

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 National Capital Pathways, the rating may be decreased by one level.

Level 4 and 5 hikes include an indication of what qualifies them for a higher rating. And any route, regardless of distance, where anything more than basic navigation skills are required, will automatically receive a "4" 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 they gain experience.