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Skiløpere på rekke og rad i hvitt vinterlandskap

Grading for DNT Trips and Activities

Are you unsure how demanding a trip is? Most of DNT's guided tours are marked with both the target group and the difficulty level. We recommend reading the descriptions carefully to ensure you choose the trip that is right for you.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the grading. Pay particular attention to any requirements for specific skills or equipment. You should then assess your own ability based on the information provided.

Please note: These are general classifications. Terrain can be highly variable. For example, a summit hike may be short in distance but still be graded as "demanding" due to steep or technical terrain. Contact the organizing association for more detailed information.

Hiking, Skiing, and Summits

gradering turer, merkehåndboka.Easy

Simple day trips on marked trails, or events open to everyone.

Medium

Daily stages of up to 15 km, mostly on marked trails. Suitable for those used to hiking with a backpack and who are in good physical shape.

Demanding

Daily stages of up to approx. 25 km, partly off-trail. Suitable for those in good shape with previous mountain experience.

Extra demanding

Daily stages exceeding 25 km, often outside marked routes. Suitable for those in excellent physical condition with extensive mountain experience.

Backpacks and Pace

Participants carry their own gear (typically up to 8 kg in summer and 15 kg in winter). Groups are out all day, with an average hiking/skiing pace of about 3 km per hour.

Tre skiløpere i vinterfjellet. Foto
Weather and driving conditions change quickly in the winter mountains. The twigs show the way, but no tracks are driven.

Important Information for Winter Tours

The winter mountains are beautiful but unpredictable. Even a "simple" ski trip can become demanding in challenging weather or snow conditions. In the mountains, trails are rarely groomed; you must be prepared to break your own tracks. While "twigs" (waymarkers) show the route, weather and visibility can change rapidly. Packing your backpack correctly and having the right equipment is essential for a safe and memorable experience.

Rowing and Paddling

Havkajakk, vanskelighetsgrader.

Easy

Requires basic knowledge of weather, wind, currents, and boat traffic. Skill level equivalent to a basic sea kayaking course. 

* - ** Highly sheltered - sheltered waters 

Medium

Proficient in interpreting weather, wind, and currents. Skill level equivalent to a technical or activity leader course. 

 Some exposed waters

Demanding

Strong skills in navigating weather, wind, and currents. Skill level equivalent to an advanced or leadership course.

Exposed waters.

Extra demanding

Expert skills in all conditions. Equivalent to advanced supervisor courses. Very experienced. 

Highly exposed waters

Why Join a DNT Tour?

  • Expert Leadership: Hikes led by experienced guides from DNT’s member associations.
  • Prime Locations: Experience Norway’s most iconic mountain areas and beautiful destinations.
  • Hidden Gems: Discover secret spots you might not find on your own.
  • Safety in Challenges: Tackle more demanding hikes with the security of a group and guide.
  • Community: Make new friends and join a unique hiking community.

Join us on a group trip: Activity calendar

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