There are a number of factors which influence how difficult a walk is, including terrain, distance and ascent. The five walk categories we use during the festival have the following typical characteristics:
Very strenuous
A true mountain adventure, often with difficult walking underfoot in Galloway’s wildest locations. Distances are typically 20km (12 miles) or more with an ascent of typically over 1,000 metres (but sometimes much more). Suitable only for those with a high level of fitness and hillwalking experience.
Strenuous
Open hillside with some steep sections. Distances typically 15km (9 miles) to 20km (12 miles) with between 500m and 1000m of ascent. Suitable only for those with a good level of fitness.
Moderate plus
Generally on lower land across farmland, through forests or on the coast, usually on paths, but with some difficult sections. Distances vary, but are typically around 15km (9 miles) with several hundred metres of ascent.
Moderate
Generally on lower land across farmland, through forests or on the coast, usually on paths. Distances are around 10km (6 miles) to 14kms (9 miles) with a few hundred metres of ascent. A number of these walks are led by experts with a particular interest and hence are taken at a slower pace to allow for discussion along the route.
Easy
Generally level walks on paths or paved surfaces, with distances typically up to 10km (6 miles).
Please remember these are only a guide and fuller descriptions of each walk are available on this website.