Hike levels
The surest way to a disastrous first experience with a hiking club is to sign up for a hike beyond your capabilities, especially in our challenging desert environment. Start small and work your way up to the longer and more difficult hikes.
Many hikes in this area have significant elevation gain. If you're not used to hiking in mountainous terrain, start with the easy hikes with little elevation gain. With regular hiking, you'll soon find yourself on the more difficult trails.
What makes a hike harder
Four things set the difficulty of every hike.
Mileage
How far you'll walk, out and back or around the loop.
Terrain
Ranges from good trails, to bushwhacking (crossing country with no trail), to rock scrambling. A short hike is not necessarily an easy hike.
Elevation
How much climbing is involved from the trailhead to the high point.
Pace
From leisurely and social to faster, workout-style hikes.
Club hike levels
Every club hike has a level to help you choose hikes that fit your skill level and physical ability.
Upper Intermediate
Mostly on trailAdvanced
On and off trail, possible bushwhackingWithin each level, a hike may also be rated easy, moderate or strenuous. Watch the calendar for Special Hikes too, one-off outings and trips outside the regular levels.
Social stroll or workout?
Pick the pace that matches why you hike.
Hiking to socialize
Sign up for the leisurely, social paced trips. These are normally led at a pace that leaves room to chat with other hikers and time for photography.
Hiking for a workout
Try the faster paced hikes. Just remember, these hikes don't normally slow down on steep trails.
Be prepared, use common sense and don't overestimate your ability or underestimate the terrain. Weather matters too, a warm day can make any hike more difficult.