We rate every trip on three simple 1–5 scales — Fitness, Technical and Commitment — so you can judge fit before you book. Here's what each one measures, and the ability levels they add up to.
How much your body is asked for — daily vertical, distance, and hours on the move.
The skills and terrain involved. This is the scale that changes most by discipline — here's what each level looks like across our ski, rock and alpine programs.
| Ski & Splitboard | Rock | Alpine | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Groomed to moderate off-piste, under 30°. | Easy scrambling to low 5th class, top-roped. | Glacier walk-ups; basic crampon and ice-axe use. |
| 2 | Trees and powder, up to about 35°. | Single-pitch 5.6–5.8, following a guide. | Moderate snow and roped glacier travel. |
| 3 | Steeper alpine terrain and variable snow. | Multi-pitch to ~5.8, starting to lead. | Steep snow with short low-5th rock steps. |
| 4 | Couloirs, glacier travel, crampons and axe. | Sustained multi-pitch 5.9–5.10 with exposure. | Alpine ice and mixed ground, sustained exposure. |
| 5 | 40°+ terrain and ski mountaineering. | Long, committing routes 5.10+; self-rescue skills. | Technical alpine ice and rock; big committing routes. |
How far you are from roads, towns and outside help — and the logistics that go with it.
A quick read on where a trip sits overall. The three scales above are the detail; these are the shorthand.
Confident in powder, trees and variable snow. Comfortable skiing several days in a row, lift-served or touring.
Prior backcountry experience, efficient transitions, and strong fitness for long days in remote terrain.
Big-mountain descents, steep couloirs and glaciated terrain. Expect consecutive full days of touring or climbing.
Not sure where you land, or which trip fits? Tell us your experience and goals and we'll point you to the right one — even if it's "build up first."
Talk to a guide