Another Summit uses a 5-level scale when rating a hike's difficulty. There are multiple factors that go into deciding the difficulty of each hike, such as elevation, terrain, and frequency of rests. Below is a general description of each difficulty level.

Blue (easy):

This is a hike that is great for people of all ages and ability levels. Think of this as a casual stroll through your local garden or a public park. These hikes are great for beginners and those with limited mobility.

ex: Pelton Pond, Hessian Lake, Dennings Point.

Green (moderate):

Green hikes are usually on relatively easy trails–not too steep or rough–and usually last between 1 - 3 hours. This is a great option for beginners who aren’t used to hiking but want to get outdoors.

ex: Hawk Rock, Corbin Hill, Sugarloaf Mountain.

Yellow (moderately strenuous):

Yellow hikes can have some of the most variety, as many factors play in the difficulty of a hike. A Yellow hike could be a short crawl up a mountain-side, or a long hike on a moderate trail, but either way, these hikes don't usually require experience or a high level of fitness.

ex: Mount Beacon Fire Tower, Canopus Lake, Perkins Tower.

Red (strenuous):

Red hikes are challenging experiences that get your blood pumping. This could be a fast-paced race, a long hike on a difficult trail, a multi-day hike. This is great for people who are very physically fit, or those who are experienced hikers.

ex: Beacon to Cold Spring, Popolopen Torne Loop, Iron Mine.

Black (very strenuous):

The most difficult hike, Black hikes are guaranteed to leave you feeling worn out. Expect challenges like racing up a mountain-side and backpacking for a week. These hikes are only recommended for those who are very physically fit and experienced hikers.

ex: Breakneck Ridge, Arden to Bear Mountain, Sunrise Scramble.

Activities:
Hiking, Multi-Day Backpacking, Paddling (canoeing/kayaking), Multi-Day Paddling, Snowshoeing, Fly Fishing

Skills/Qualifications:
Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness Risk Management, Sierra Club Outings Leader, WEA Certified Trainer

What to expect on a trip with Aaron:
I typically offer hikes and backpacking trips in the Hudson Highlands, Fahnestock, Bear Mountain, and Harriman State Parks that are easy to moderately difficult. I prefer taking people on loop or point-to-point trails over out-and-back and want to get our hikers away from road noise and other people, so plan on my outings to last 3-4 hours with a good break at the midpoint in a remote place. When you get back from one of my trips you will feel that you have accomplished something with a great group of people and learned about some of the history and/or ecology of the place we were in together.

Fun Fact:
I was a member of the Monterey Jazz Band in 1994 while stationed at Fort Ord, California.

Activities:
Backpacking, Multi-Day Backpacking, Paddling (canoeing/kayaking), Multi-Day Paddling

Skills/Qualifications:
Wilderness EMT, Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team Member, Campton-Thornton Fire Department EMT, Sierra Club Military Outdoors Outing Leader, VA whole health volunteer, Registered Yoga Teacher.

What to expect on a trip with Mark:
I like to get out in nature with people who don't always get to enjoy it, or who are new to getting out and enjoying outdoor activities. It's fun to share the experience of being outside while getting to know each other. I also like to learn and appreciate the plants, animals, and history of the areas that we visit. On one of my trips you can expect a relatively easy going approach to whatever the circumstances of the day and outing bring. We'll share the time, fun, and challenges together, and return better from the experience. My goal is that you come home feeling closer to yourself, nature, and others.

Fun Fact:
I can talk with Red Squirrels. They get me.

Activities:
Hiking, Multi-Day Backpacking, Paddling (canoeing/kayaking), Geocaching

Skills/Qualifications:
Sierra Club Outings Leader, LNT Trainer, avid outdoor enthusiast.

What to expect on a trip with Elena:
On my hikes, you'll have an opportunity to break away from the stresses of modern life and enjoy an educational, peaceful walk in nature. My hikes will be easy to moderate in difficulty and will last between 2 and 4 hours, with occasional lessons on local flora and ecology. At the end of my hikes, you'll go home feeling rejuvenated, and a little more connected with nature.

Fun Fact:
I like to build furniture in my free time.

Activities:
Hiking, Paddling (canoeing/kayaking)

Skills/Qualifications:
Navy SEAL, avid outdoor enthusiast.

What to expect on a trip with Alex:
I typically offer hikes in the Lower Hudson Valley that last no longer than 2 hours. During my hikes you can expect to be challenged with high-intensity activities like steep climbs / scrambles that require technical skill, and on flat trails, I'll set a running pace in order to keep our heart rates up.

Fun Fact:
I have two black Belgian shepherds and I love to play chess.

Activities:
Hiking, Multi-Day Backpacking, Snowshoeing

Skills/Qualifications:
WFA, experienced hiker and backpacker.

What to expect on a trip with Bill:
I will be leading moderate hikes at a comfortable pace that are between three and six miles in Fahnestock and Harriman state parks. Most hikes will be a loop or out-and-back and take two to four hours. After one of my hikes you should feel a sense of accomplishment and hopefully make some new friends.

Fun Fact:
I am section hiking the long trail in Vermont and have completed 167 miles so far with 106 to go.

Activities:
Hiking

Skills/Qualifications:
First Responder, 30 years of hiking experience.

What to expect on a trip with Chuck:
I have been hiking the mountains of the Hudson Highlands my entire life. While I love challenging myself to the trails of Mount Beacon and Breakneck Ridge, I enjoy leading easy hikes that are an hour long in order to introduce Veterans and First Responders to the power of nature in overcoming negative stress on their bodies.

Fun Fact:
I enjoy hiking with my German Shepherd Lab Mix Aubrey Blue.

Activities:
Hiking, Paddling (canoeing/kayaking), Snowshoeing

Skills/Qualifications:
WFA, Rescue Technician, Cold Spring Fire Search & Rescue Member, avid hiker.

What to expect on a trip with Dawn:
I specialize in leading educational hikes in the lower Hudson Valley. Most of these hikes will be easy to moderate and will usually be less than 5 miles. I enjoy the beauty that nature provides and prefer not to rush through a hike so I can take in the sights. Being outside in nature is exhilarating, and I want to share this experience with others. We all need to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and immerse ourselves in nature to help clear our minds.

Fun Fact:
I enjoy Geocaching while hiking. I have over 500 finds from Maine to Arizona to Peru.

Activities:
Hiking, Multi-Day Backpacking, Multi-Day Paddling, Snowshoeing

Skills/Qualifications:
NYS Licensed Outdoors Guide certified in hiking, backpacking, fishing and small boats/canoes

What to expect on a trip with Henri:
I offer hikes and backpacking trips in the Hudson Valley and Catskills regions. Most of my trips range in difficulty from moderate to very strenuous but I also plan on offering occasional slow, easy hikes focused on nature connection. I believe that the outdoors are the ultimate classroom and love to share my knowledge of local plant and wildlife while incorporating skill building into each trip.

Fun Fact:
I have thru hiked the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Florida Trail and am currently section hiking the New York Long Path. I also whittle spoons for fun.