Introduction
Choosing a multi‑day walk should feel exciting — not intimidating. At Park Trek, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Is this walk right for me?”
That’s exactly why we place so much importance on how we grade our walks. We use a clear, objective system based on nationally recognised standards, so you can confidently select a walking holiday that suits your fitness, experience and goals — and enjoy every step of the journey.
In this article, we’ll explain how we grade our walks, what the grades really mean, and how to use that information to choose the perfect walk for you.
Why Walk Grading Matters
No two walkers are the same. Some people love a steady challenge, others prefer a more relaxed pace with time to soak up the scenery. There is no “better” grade — only the right grade for you.
A good walk‑grading system should:
- Be consistent and objective
- Help you understand what a walk actually involves
- Remove uncertainty and build confidence before you book
That’s why Park Trek aligns every walk we offer with the Australian Walking Track Grading System, the national standard used across Australia’s parks and trails.
The Australian Walking Track Grading System
The Australian Walking Track Grading System (AWTGS) provides a consistent way to describe walking tracks across the country. It considers factors such as walking time, distance, terrain, slope and overall difficulty.
If you’d like to explore the system in detail, you can view it on our website here:
👉 Australian Walking Track Grading System
This nationally recognised framework ensures we are assessing walks using the same criteria you’ll see in national parks across Australia — not a subjective or inflated internal scale.
How We Grade Our Walks at Park Trek
When it comes to how we grade our walks, we don’t rely on vague labels like “easy” or “challenging” without context. Instead, every Park Trek walk is carefully assessed and graded in line with the Australian Walking Track Grading System.
For each walk on our website, we clearly provide on the relevant product page and in the detailed Trip Notes:
- Daily walking distances
- Estimated walking times each day
- Overall track grading under the AWTGS
- Clear descriptions of the terrain and conditions you can expect.
This means you can see exactly what’s involved — no guesswork, no surprises.
Our goal is simple: to help you choose a walk where you feel comfortable, capable and confident.
Understanding Walking Track Grades
Below is a guide to the grades you’ll see in the Australian Walking Track Grading System and across Park Trek walks.
Grade 2 – Easy
Grade 2 walks are generally shorter on well‑formed tracks with gentle slopes and minimal obstacles.
These walks are suited to:
- Walkers with a basic level of fitness
- Those new to multi‑day walking
- People who enjoy a relaxed pace and shorter walking days
Many first‑time multi‑day walkers find Grade 2 walks a great introduction.
Grade 3 – Moderate
Grade 3 walks are where many Park Trek guests find their sweet spot. These walks involve longer days, some hills and varied terrain.
These walks are suited to:
- Walkers with reasonable fitness
- Someone comfortable walking for several hours a day
- People who enjoy a rewarding challenge without being pushed to their limits
You don’t need to be an experienced hiker — just comfortable being active and on your feet.
Grade 4 – Challenging
Grade 4 walks involve longer distances, steeper climbs and more uneven terrain. These walks are physically rewarding but require preparation.
These walks are suited to:
- Walkers with good fitness
- Those who enjoy sustained walking over multiple days
- People confident on uneven ground and longer climbs
We provide clear advance information for these walks so you can train appropriately before you arrive.
Beyond the Grade: What Else We Consider
While grading is important, it’s not the only thing that matters — and we make sure to explain the full picture.
Terrain and Conditions
Some tracks are smooth and well‑defined, while others are rocky, sandy or uneven. We tell you what to expect so nothing comes as a surprise.
Daily Distances and Time on Track
Two walks might share the same grade but feel very different depending on daily distances. That’s why we show daily kilometre ranges and estimated walking times for every itinerary.
Carrying Only a Day Pack
All Park Trek walks are day‑pack only. This significantly reduces difficulty and fatigue compared to unsupported walking, making many walks comfortably achievable for a wider range of walkers.
Expert Support
You’ll be guided by experienced Park Trek leaders who manage pacing, breaks and group flow — helping everyone enjoy the walk within their comfort zone.
Choosing the Right Walk for You
If you’re unsure where you fit, here are a few simple questions to ask yourself when reviewing how we grade our walks:
- Can I comfortably walk for several hours a day?
- Do I enjoy hills, or prefer gentler terrain?
- Am I walking regularly now, or just getting started?
- Am I looking for a gentle introduction or a rewarding challenge?
Our website gives you the information you need to answer these questions honestly — without having to guess or compare yourself to others.
And remember, fitness is relative. Many of our guests tell us they were nervous beforehand and surprised by how achievable — and enjoyable — their walk felt.
We Are Here to Help
Even with clear grading and detailed information, sometimes it helps to talk things through.
If you’re ever unsure, our team is happy to help you interpret grades, compare walks and choose one that’s right for you. We believe the best walking experiences happen when expectations match reality.
That’s why we’re so transparent about how we grade our walks — because confidence leads to enjoyment, and enjoyment leads to unforgettable walking holidays.
We Want You to Walk with Confidence
When you choose a Park Trek walk, you’re choosing clarity, honesty and a system you can trust. Our use of the Australian Walking Track Grading System, combined with detailed daily information for every walk, means you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for.
The perfect walk isn’t about being the strongest or fastest. It’s about finding the experience that suits you — and enjoying every step along the way.
Happy Walking,
Charles & The Park Trek Team
Park Trek acknowledges and pays its respects to the Traditional Owners of the lands upon which we wander as a walking company. We recognise the unique place held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the original custodians of the lands and waterways across our continent, with histories of continuous connection dating back more than 60,000 years. We are proud to live on the planet’s oldest continent with the oldest continuous living culture. We support the Uluru Statement from the Heart.