Elevation on a Hike

Elevation (or how much you go upwards, in technical terms) is a key part of deciding which walk to go on.

I could give you numbers, like metres climbed, or steepest gradient. But frankly, I think it overcomplicates it, and most of them don't give you the real story unless you know what to look for.

To make it simple, I've separated my walks into the following 5 categories:

Flat

Almost entirely level terrain, such as canal towpaths or old railway lines, where any incline is barely noticeable.

Gradual

A route featuring a consistent, gentle incline that is easy to manage for most walkers.

Rolling

A path with small, short hills that offers a moderate challenge, perfect for those looking to advance their hiking skills.

Steep

Terrain with moderately steep inclines that may leave even well-conditioned hikers feeling fatigued at times, featuring both uphill and downhill sections.

Intense

Strenuous trails with steep inclines and challenging terrain that often require scrambling, promising a demanding workout.