Using the Trail Rating System

We want to take a moment to highlight our trail rating system, as it will play an increasingly important role in all our future hikes.

For many hikers in lower Michigan, trails are typically flat, predictable, and relatively easy to navigate. Because of this, completing several “easy” hikes, especially on mostly flat ground, doesn’t always prepare you for the demands of a true “moderate” trail. A moderate hike in our area can feel very different from a moderate hike in regions like the western U.S., where rocky paths, uneven footing, and elevation changes are the norm. Terrain varies greatly from place to place, and unfamiliar landscapes can introduce challenges even for people who have completed multiple easy hikes.

It’s important to remember that the number of hikes you’ve done doesn’t automatically make you ready for tougher trails. Every hike adds to your experience, but moving from flat terrain to steep or technical trails is a transition that requires preparation, awareness, and sometimes training, and that’s okay. Hiking is a journey, not a race.

When hiking with a group, it’s essential to know your limits and understand what the trail demands. If a hike seems beyond your comfort level or physical readiness, choosing to sit it out is not only acceptable, it’s the right call for your safety and the safety of the group.

At Hike & Dine Events, we provide clear trail ratings and detailed expectations for every hike you register for. Our goal is to prepare you thoroughly, help you build confidence, and ensure you enjoy the journey.. from the first step to the final viewpoint, with safety and clarity in mind.