To help hikers and walkers know what to expect and find hikes that match their ability, Norway uses a standardized system to grade marked hikes.
This system categorizes hikes into four different difficulty levels:
• Easy (green)
• Medium (blue)
• Demanding (red)
• Expert (black)
Each color represents a specific level of difficulty, ensuring that hikers can choose hikes that are suitable for their skill and fitness levels.
By following this system, hikers can better plan their trips and enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience on the trails.
Here’s a guide to what these trail colors mean in Norway.
Easy (Green)
Suitable for
• Beginners.
• Requires no special skills.
• Routes suitable for wheelchair / pushchair / stroller are marked with own symbol.
Ascent & distance
• Ascent under 300m.
• Distance under 5 km.
Path type
• Tarmac, gravel, forest roads or good quality paths.
• Prepared paths and tracks giving good accessibility.
• Mostly shorter routes.
• Firm, even surface with no significant obstacles or stream crossings.
Gradient & exposure
• Moderate ascents.
• No steep sections.
Medium (Blue)
Suitable for
• People with some experience walking in terrain.
• Average fitness level.
• Basic outdoor skills.
Ascent & distance
• Ascent under 600m.
• Distance under 10 km.
Path type
• May have some more demanding sections than ‘green’ easy paths.
• Possibility of easy stream crossings.
Gradient & exposure
• Mostly moderate ascents with some steeper sections.
• Some sections may be challenging for people with fear of heights.
Demanding (Red)
Suitable for
• Experienced hikers.
• Reasonable stamina.
• Good equipment and suitable footwear required.
• Navigation skills.
Ascent & distance
• Ascent under 1000m.
• Distance under 20 km.
Path type
• Narrow paths, rocky and/or open (mountain) terrain.
• Steep slopes and longer sections with loose rock or marsh possible.
• Potential for stream crossings.
Gradient & exposure
• Varying degrees of ascent.
• Some exposed sections.
• Potentially technically demanding sections requiring scrambling and use of hands for support.
Expert (Black)
Suitable for
• Experienced mountain hikers.
• Some endurance required.
• Good equipment and suitable footwear required.
• Navigation skills.
Ascent & distance
No maximum ascent or distance.
Path type
• Longer, more technical trips than ‘red’ demanding routes.
• Demanding stream / river crossings possible.
Gradient & exposure
• Typically summit trips with steep ascents on uneven ground.
• Can have exposed sections requiring scrambling.
• Narrow ridges, bare rock etc.
Source: http://merkehandboka.no