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Hike Challenge Rating System
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OASC hikes are rated in three ways
1) Distance
2) Technical Challenge: Minus (-),
Typical or Plus (+)
3) OASC-relative Exertion / Pace
/ Endurance Expectation: 1 through 5 |
1) DISTANCE
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Each hike description includes the
number of miles,
and whether it is a circuit hike or
an up-and-back hike |
2) TECHNICAL
CHALLENGE
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Minus (-)
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Relatively flat (little elevation
change)
with good footing
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Typical
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A significant amount of elevation
change involving climbs and descents on fairly rocky trails. This is
the default rating.
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Plus (+)
(one plus sign for each type of
challenge)
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More strenuous climbs and descents
than usual, and/or other unusual technical challenges such as scrambling
over rocks / boulders, river crossings, icy or otherwise degraded trail
conditions, off-trail backcountry navigating,
extreme weather conditions, etc.
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3) OASC-RELATIVE EXERTION
/ PACE / ENDURANCE EXPECTATION
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☼ Relative Exertion is how
strenuous the exercise is relative to / compared to the range
of hikes OASC offers. Signs include increased heart rate,
increased respiration / breathing rate, increased sweating and muscle
fatigue. A 1-rating gives these signs to some people but not to
others. A "1" simply is relative to the 1s through 5s offered in the
club.
☼ Pace / Endurance Expectation means
the leaders and fellow hikers expect each participant to maintain the
rated pace -- a walking speed and break frequency rated relative to other
1s through 5s offered in the club.
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Rating |
Description |
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1
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Relative to the range of OASC hikes
offered, this rating is on the lighter side of physical exertion.
There may be numerous breaks (for historical / cultural / flora / fauna
interpretation, etc.) and/or a leisurely, casual walking pace. |
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2 |
 |
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3 |
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4
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5
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Relative to the range of OASC hikes
offered, this rating is on the much harder side of physical exertion, and
participants are expected to be able to maintain pace with few to no
breaks. |
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