By Mark 
When planning outdoor adventures, understanding trail steepness is crucial for assessing difficulty and preparing adequately. A common metric for measuring trail gradients in North America is feet of elevation gain per mile. But what threshold defines a “steep” hike?
Defining Steepness in Hiking Trails
Most hiking authorities consider trails gaining 1,000+ feet per mile (≈19% average grade) to be steep. This standard aligns with classifications from organizations like the National Park Service, which categorizes trails exceeding 15% grade (≈792 ft/mile) as challenging. However, context matters:
- Moderate trails: 500-800 ft/mile (9-15% grade)
- Steep trails: 1,000-1,500 ft/mile (19-28% grade)
- Extreme trails: 1,500+ ft/mile (>28% grade)
Seasonal Considerations for Spring 2025 Hikes
As of March 2025, hikers should account for lingering winter conditions at higher elevations. Trails that might be manageable in summer become significantly steeper and more hazardous when icy or snow-covered. Always check local weather forecasts and trail reports before attempting steep routes this season.
Calculating Trail Gradient
To determine ft/mile:
Elevation Gain (ft) ÷ Trail Distance (miles) = Gradient
Example: A 2.5-mile trail with 2,800 ft elevation gain = 1,120 ft/mile (21% grade).
For accurate planning, use topographic maps or apps like our recommended GPS devices from OUTDOOR PURSUIT HUB.
Safety Tips for Steep Hikes
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with aggressive tread
- Use trekking poles for stability
- Pack 50% more water than flat trails
- Allow 2x standard hiking time estimates
Remember that perceived difficulty increases exponentially with gradient – a 1,200 ft/mile trail feels more than twice as hard as a 600 ft/mile route. Build fitness gradually using our hiker training guides before attempting extreme grades.
When to Turn Back
If you encounter:
• Sustained sections >1,500 ft/mile without experience
• Loose scree or unstable footing
• Weather deterioration
Prioritize safety over summit goals. Many steep trails in our database offer bailout routes for changing conditions.
By understanding these gradient thresholds and preparing properly, you can confidently tackle challenging trails while respecting your personal limits. Always match trail difficulty to your group’s weakest member, and consider professional guides for particularly steep objectives.