VITAL ADVENTURE LEVELS
LEVEL 1: Active Outdoor Hikes
Open to most fitness levels with some preparation.
Time on Trail: 1-4 Hours
Distance: Up to 8 miles per day
Elevation: Up to 1,500 feet gain
Terrain: Well-marked, cleared, non-technical trails
Gear: Supportive hiking footwear; trekking poles recommended
Training: Recommended. A solid foundation of walking or hiking, working up to 6+ mile days.
Recommended For: Active people with a regular fitness routine who want a scenic, manageable challenge. An ideal first step into VITAL adventures.
Examples: Into the Still & VITAL Hikes
LEVEL 2: Endurance & Strength Hikes
Demands dedicated training. Challenging terrain.
Time on Trail: 4-10 hours per day
Distance: 8-18 miles per day
Elevation: 1,500-4,500 feet of gain per day
Terrain: Varied to technical: rocky, narrow, exposed trails in mountain weather
Gear: Trekking poles required
Training: 3 months, mandatory. Progressive strength and conditioning, with weekly long training hikes building to 10+ mile days with elevation.
Recommended For: Hikers and runners building stamina and strength, ready for climbs, descents and changing conditions.
Examples: Kenai, Alaska and Dolomites, Italy
LEVEL 3: Summit & Endurance Expeditions
Requires focused, consistent training for completion and for the safety of you and your crew.
Time on Trail: 10+ hours in a single day
Distance: 10-25 miles per day
Elevation: 8,000+ feet of total change (up and down) in a single day
Terrain: Rugged and sustained rather than highly technical, often with heat, cold, darkness or altitude
Gear: Trekking poles required
Training: 3–6 months, mandatory. Progressive strength and conditioning, weekly long training hikes building to 16+ miles with major elevation, and back-to-back long training days.
Recommended For: Experienced adventurers ready for a sustained physical challenge, where stamina, strength and focus carry you through many hours.
Examples: Grand Canyon Rim to Rim and Kilimanjaro
Not Sure Which Level Fits?
Book a consult and we’ll help you find your starting point.