WALK GRADINGS
IN A NUTSHELL
AUSTRALIAN GRADING SYSTEM
“The grading system assesses a walk’s difficulty based on several criteria, including: experience required, steps, gradient, path quality and signage. The walk’s final grade is based on the most difficult of these 5 criteria, rather than an average.So some walks will have criteria that meet an easier grade.“
Source: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Grade 1: no experience needed. Flat, well-formed track, up to 5 km. Suitable for wheelchairs.
Examples: Three Sisters walk in Katoomba, Fairfax Heritage track in Blackheath.
Grade 2: Formed track, gentle hills and up to 10 km. Suitable for families with young children.
Example: Wind Eroded Cave in Blackheath.
Grade 3: A little experience is necessary. Formed track, some obstacles, short steep hills and many steps, rough surfaces and up to 20 km.
Examples: Prince Henry Cliff track in Katoomba; Grand Canyon track in Blackheath.
Grade 4: Experience needed. Rough track, longer, steep hills and not always well-signposted or a clear track.
Examples: Ruined Castle walking track, Dardanelles Pass loop in Katoomba; Wentworth Pass in Wentworth Falls; Lockleys Pylon track in Leura.
Grade 5: Navigation and first aid skills required. Rough unformed track, difficult, steep and unmarked terrain.
Examples: Rodriguez Pass in Blackheath; Hippocrene and Vera Falls in Wentworth Falls.
REFERENCES
TIME
The time it takes to do a walk does not affect the grading: it depends on your fitness and your pace and whether you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The walking times listed on this website are indicative: you might go faster or slower!
DISTANCE AND TRACK ROUTE TYPE
DISTANCE
The walks are measured in total round trip distance. For instance, if it takes 2 km to get somewhere and 2 km to come back the distance is 4 km.
TRACK ROUTE TYPE
Loop: the track starts and ends at the same location and follows one or more tracks to form a loop.
Out and Back (or Return): the track starts and finishes at the same location. When you arrive at your destination, you return on the same track.
Point to Point: the track starts at one location and finishes at another location.
ASCENT
Some tracks can have many up and down section. Total ascent or elevation gain is the sum of all increases in elevation.
You can find some information on elevation difference and elevation gain here.
ICONS USED IN THE WEBSITE
uneven and/or slippery surface
Wear shoes with ankle support and a good grip
Carry a map of the area
Carry a compass
Carry water with you
Carry a basic first-aid kit with you
Carry a PLB or satellite messaging device
No or poor mobile reception
No pets allowed
Pets allowed – must be on a lead.
