Itinerary classification


Hiking itinerary classification

Most of the itineraries are suitable for quite capable hikers and they can be classified as level E (hiking itinerary) in the CAI difficulty level chart. Some paths are very easy and they have been classified as level T (touristic itinerary), others are classified as EE (demanding hiking itinerary).

T: touristic itinerary. It is usually an itinerary on easy paths, small roads, mule-drives, with easy and clearly visible routes, which are not awkward or difficult to follow. Knowledge and experience of mountain settings is not required, but you need just to be ready for a good walk.

E: hiking itinerary. It is usually on signalled paths or tracks (pasture, debris, stony ways). The paths are not awkward, usually on clear ways appropriately signalled. As it might be on steep slopes, it requires some sense of direction and some knowledge and experience of mountains. You will also need to be trained to hike and wear suitable shoes.

EE: demanding hiking itinerary for experienced hikers. Although it is usually a signalled itinerary, it requires special skills to walk on difficult paths. Paths are usually inaccessible, very steep and slippery with high grass, rocks and debris. There might be various kinds of ways like stony ways, snowfields (not steep though) and open slopes with no landmarks. You need mountain experience, knowledge of the Alps environment, steady pace and lack of vertigo, as well as appropriate equipment and to be physically fit.
Paths on ice-sheets are not included here because even if they are flat and without crevasses, they require ropes and the ice axe, as well as the knowledge of safety codes and supplies.

EEAdemanding hiking itinerary for experienced hikers fully equipped. This is an EE itinerary but participants will need knowledge of safety equipment, such as karabiners, harness, helmet, cords and screamer.