The Journey Guide

Every GRAB journey is classified using three activity categories: Walking, Hiking, and Trekking. These categories reflect more than mileage. We consider terrain, elevation gain and loss, technical features, route complexity, and the overall level of physical and environmental commitment.A journey may include more than one category. For example, an itinerary might be described as 40% Walking, 50% Hiking, and 10% Trekking, or as having three Walking days and four Hiking days.When a journey includes multiple categories, preparation standards are based on the highest category expected.To know what level trip is right for you, look at both the activity classification and the preparation requirements for the specific journey. Consider whether you are comfortable with the expected distance, elevation, terrain, pace, and technical features—and whether you can meet the recommended preparation benchmarks before departure.If you are between categories, remember that a trip combining Walking and Hiking should be prepared for according to the Hiking requirements.

Walking describes movement on predictable, relatively low-complexity terrain with minimal vertical change. Walking routes may include roads, tracks, maintained paths, and flat or gently rolling natural surfaces. No scrambling, significant exposure, or route-finding is expected. As a general guideline, Walking days involve less than 500 feet (150 m) of total elevation gain or loss.Preparation: We recommend 2–3 days per week of steady aerobic activity and the ability to walk approximately 5 miles (8 km) in 2 hours on mixed surfaces. Walking with a light 5–10 lb pack can also be useful preparation.

Hiking introduces greater elevation change and more varied terrain. Expect natural trails with uneven surfaces, roots, rocks, short steep sections, and potentially creek crossings. Some routes may include short scrambling sections where hands are used for balance, as well as brief exposure. No technical climbing is expected.As a general guideline, Hiking days involve more than 1,500 feet (457 m) of cumulative elevation gain or loss.Preparation: We recommend 3–4 days per week of training, including walks or hikes with a light pack of approximately 10 lbs. Before departure, participants should be able to complete a 10K (6.2 miles) in approximately 3–3.5 hours on two consecutive days, including at least 1,000 feet (305 m) of elevation gain spread across multiple climbs.

Trekking involves more rugged and variable terrain, greater vertical change, and a higher level of physical and environmental commitment.Routes may include loose rock, scree or talus, steep ascents and descents, stream crossings, and sections where hands are needed for balance and upward progress. Route-finding may be required, and weather, footing, and remoteness can meaningfully affect the experience.Trekking days may involve up to 3,000+ feet (900 m) of cumulative elevation gain or loss.Preparation: We recommend 4–5 days per week of training, including walks or hikes with a light pack of approximately 10 lbs. Before departure, participants should be able to hike 8–12 miles (13–19 km) in approximately 5–6 hours for two to three consecutive days, with 1,500–3,000 feet (450–900 m) of elevation gain on rugged, uneven terrain.