⛰️ Our Trail Grading System: Find Your Perfect Edge

At Pure Trails Adventure, we believe the best running happens when you feel challenged but supported. Our grading system is designed to help you confidently select the trip that perfectly matches your fitness, experience, and aspiration.

We grade all our trips into one of three tiers based on technical difficulty, altitude, and sustained effort.

There is no required pace on any of our adventures. We cater for all speeds of runners! We ensure this flexibility by always maintaining a high ratio of guides to runners on every trip, meaning everyone can run at their own unique speed and still receive full support.

1. Moderate

This grade is ideal for runners looking for a relaxed pace, stunning views, without the high-altitude or technical demands. This is a perfect introduction to multi-day trail running. Previous experience is not essential.

What to Expect:

• Mileage: Comfortable running/hiking for 2–4 hours per day.

• Terrain: Mostly well-defined, rolling trails, paths, or roads. Minimal technical exposure or scrambling.

• Logistics: All logistics are straightforward. Lower altitudes (typically under 1,000m).

• Example Trips: Cotswolds, Isle of Man, The Lake District

2. Adventurous

This is our most popular tier, suitable for runners who can comfortably be on their feet for up to 3-6 hours per day (including walking). You need to have a good level of running fitness and be able to run up to distances of 20km+ in one push. These adventures feature a level of back-to-back (consecutive) days. Previous trail running experience is recommended.

What to Expect:

• Mileage: Comfortable running/hiking for 3–6 hours per day, with some longer 'push' days.

• Terrain: Varied, including steep ascents/descents, rocky paths, and sometimes mud or snow. Some technical footing is expected.

• Logistics: Trips may include multi-day transfers, higher altitude sections (up to 2,500m), and exposure to varied weather.

• Example Trips: Lofoten Islands, Georgia, Uzbekistan

3. Challenging

These adventures are best enjoyed by runners who have some experience in the mountains or road runners ready to test themselves on the trails. The days demand a bit more confidence, with more technical trails, and is suitable for guests who are comfortable operating in remote, high-altitude, or exposed environments. You will need to have a good base level of fitness.

What to Expect:

• Mileage: Comfortable running/hiking for 6+ hours per day over sustained periods.

• Terrain: Technical trails, with travel at higher altitudes, exposure to mountain weather, and remote locations where support is less immediate.

• Logistics: Higher altitudes (3,000m+), basic or rustic remote accommodation (e.g., teahouses), and long transfers/travel days.

• Example Trips: Picos de Europa, Lavaredo, Manaslu (The Great Himalayan Route)