Walking grades

Walking grades are based on the Australian Walking Track Grading System. https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety/australian-walking-track-grading-system

Grade 1. Opportunity for larger numbers of walkers, including newcomers with no previous experience, to walk on well-marked and even tracks or footpaths. Tracks are man-made and not steep. Distance less than 10 km total. Example: Town to Telegraph Station and return along Todd River bank path.

Grade 2. Walks on well-marked tracks of low gradient, total distance less than 15 km. Suitable for beginners. Examples:  Bradshaw Walk at Telegraph Station.

Grade 3. Walks with some hilly sections and/or rougher terrain, on defined and distinct tracks. Total distance up to 20 km. Suitable for beginners with medium or higher level of fitness and some previous experience. Examples: Section 10, Section 2 to Bond Gap and return, Section 1 from Moss Bridge to Euro Ridge and return, Woodland Trail to Rock Creek and return

Grade 4. Walks on steeper and rougher terrain, possibly including some off track sections (< 25% of total distance), on defined tracks. May involve steep sections and short rock scrambles. Distances dependent on circumstances. Leaders will have map-reading and navigational experience. Not suitable for most beginners. Examples: Section 4 to Brinkley Bluff and return, Counts Point from Serpentine gorge and return, Trephina High Ridge-Chain of Ponds, Section 3 high and low routes.

Grade 5. Off-track walks in difficult terrain. Opportunity for experienced and fit walkers to visit remote locations. May involve rock scrambling and steep surfaces. Distances variable, not more than 25 km. Leaders will have advanced map-reading and navigational skills. Not suitable for beginners and inexperienced walkers. Walkers must have appropriate equipment for walking in remote areas, including boots, gaiters or long pants, food and water. Examples: N’Dhala Gorge circuit, Waterhouse Range from Mueller Creek, Finke Gorge circuit, Mt Lloyd, Flynn’s Grave to Honeymoon Gap, Ormiston high ridge to Bowman’s Gap.

Grade 6. Strenuous off-track walks in remote and difficult terrain, usually exploratory. Suitable only for highly experienced walkers. Examples: Conway Gorge circuit, Goat Camp Creek Gorge