We evaluate the skill level required for your enjoyment on a Ruby Range Adventure by assessing a combination of different factors. We take into consideration the technical skill level of the route, the tempo of the trip in regards to the length of each day, the isolation and the expected weather conditions. By looking at all these factors we rate our adventures in the following way:
Canoe Skill Level Rating
BEGINNER
Never even sat in a canoe before, no problem! Our open programs always start off with an instructional component designed to teach you the skills necessary for safe wilderness travel. A background in camping and paddling is an asset but not necessary. These programs are open to expert and novice paddlers alike. You will appreciate the experienced teaching skills of our patient guides. You have to be ready to paddle in all weather conditions and spend several hours per day in a canoe.
INTERMEDIATE
Best suited for those with a basic level of wilderness travel. These trip are advised if you have been on a few camping trips before and have played around in a canoe or a kayak You should know how to keep a canoe in a straight line and have the stamina to carry your personal bag and paddle for several hours.
EXPERTS
Not for Novice paddlers. Trips rated as expert are major expeditions. These trips are usually in remote locations where weather is unpredictable. Your paddling skills are at an intermediate level, you can handle your canoe or kayak in most weather conditions and have basic whitewater skills. Above all, you have the right attitude, one of cooperation and flexibility.
Hiking Skill Level Rating
BEGINNER
Moderate hikes with light day pack, courses and activities are suitable for beginners and include necessary equipment and safety gear.
Distance per day: 1-7 km
Hiking Time: 3 hr or less
Pace: 1-3 km/h
Terrain: Easy (Pavement, Packed dirt, Sand)
Class of Terrain: 1-2
Elevation Gain/loss: 0 – 250 m
Altitude: Sea level to 1500 m
No altitude impact
INTERMEDIATE
Best suited for those with a basic level of wilderness travel. You have been on a few camping trips before. All campgrounds during this hiking vacation are accessible by car. Backpacking is not necessary. For the daily hikes, you carry only your lunch, rain gear, camera etc.
Distance per day: 5-15 km
Hiking Time: 4-8 hr
Pace: 2-5 km/h
Terrain: Easy to Difficult
(Inclines with loose rock; narrow trails; poor trails, some snow)
Class of Terrain: 1-3
Elevation Gain/loss: 0 – 1000 m
Less at higher altitudes
Altitude: Sea level to 2500 m
Sea level to high altitude
EXPERTS
Not for Novice hiker. Trips rated as expert are major expeditions. These trips are usually in remote locations where weather is unpredictable. Backpacking is necessary. Gear and equipment will be split between participants. Each backpack will weigh between 10-25kg. Bushwhacking, cross country boulder hopping, easy scrambling, some snow. Above all you need to have the right attitude, one of cooperation and flexibility.
Distance per day: 10-30 km
Hiking Time: 8 h or more
Pace: 3-5 km/h
Terrain: Easy to Extreme
(Inclines with loose rock; narrow trails; poor trails, Some rock hopping, snow, ice)
Class of Terrain: 1-4
Elevation Gain/loss: 0 – 1250 m
Altitude: Sea level to 2500 m
No altitude impact
As a side note; many of our participants on Expert Level adventures are over 50 years in age. If you are confident about your fitness level, age is not a factor that should stop you from booking a trip with us. Families are also welcomed on most of our trips, we are happy to have kids over 8 years old joining their parents on a river or a hiking trip. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns!
