Routes, Terrain, and Conditioning Tips
Details
Route & Terrain Notes
Most of our hiking routes are moderately strenuous with steep sections that occasionally involve climbing or descending natural and groomed paths with loose rock and gravel. The terrain is often uneven and trail width and conditions can also vary widely. Please use extra caution when navigating this terrain. (Backroads provides walking sticks, which are very helpful.) Keep in mind that we'll be hiking at high elevation, which can make the routes feel more challenging than the mileage may suggest.
Remember, take your time and go at your own pace— you're on vacation! Your Backroads Trip Leaders will be available at intersecting routes when you're ready for a snack, a cool drink, or a lift back if you're done for the day. Most days you'll have a choice of mileage options, so you can decide how active you want to be—it's always up to you.
Conditioning Tips
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions' may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
Before your trip, we suggest walking and hiking regularly and hitting a few hills whenever you can. Review the route options in the daily itinerary for the range of mileages offered on this trip. But mostly, just show up and have fun!