Is There Such a Thing as an Expert Hiker?
While many may aspire to be expert hikers, the truth is that the wilderness always has more to teach. Even the most seasoned hikers understand that there is always something new to learn. Claiming to be an “expert” can often lead to overconfidence and dangerous situations. This guide is focused on helping you transition from a novice to an experienced hiker—someone who can confidently handle more challenging terrain and navigate the outdoors with competence and caution.
Understanding the Path to Harder Hikes
All hikers begin as novices. No one sets out for their first hike and immediately tackles Grade 4 or 5 trails without significant risk. To progress safely, it’s essential to understand how trails are graded in Australia.
The Australian Walking Track Grading System (AWTGS) grades trails from 1 to 5 based on distance, gradient, track surface, and the level of navigation required. By understanding these grades, you can set a realistic goal for your hiking journey. It’s important to start slow with Grade 1 and 2 trails to develop foundational skills. Choose well-formed tracks that allow for easy exits in case things don’t go as planned.
Think of hiking like learning to drive: you wouldn’t jump straight onto a freeway but rather start with a quiet parking lot to learn the basics. Hiking requires a similar methodical progression.
Early in my hiking journey, I wanted to join a Grade 4 hike in Lerderderg Gorge, but the leaders wisely said no. They didn’t know if I had the experience for such a challenging trail. It was a tough decision at the time, but looking back, I realize it forced me to create a plan and earn my experience the right way.
A Roadmap for Developing Hiking Skills
To “level up” through the AWTGS grades, I followed a structured approach that any hiker can use:
- Master the Basics (Grades 1-2): Start with trails that are well-marked and easy to follow. I began with the You Yangs (VIC) where I practiced navigation basics, even though the trails were simple. I used maps to correlate the terrain with topographic features and develop my orientation skills.
- Introduce Variables (Grade 3): Once confident, I tackled Werribee Gorge, which offered rock scrambling and river crossings. These more challenging features allowed me to practice navigation in a more isolated environment while still staying within a manageable area.
- Targeted Skill Training (Grade 4): Although I enjoyed rock scrambling, I lacked the technical skills for it. I attended rock climbing sessions and joined a climbing gym to build the balance and confidence needed for Grade 4 and 5 routes.
- Off-Trail Navigation (Grade 5): When my map and compass skills were solid, I began planning short off-trail sections in familiar parks to rely more on terrain reading rather than following marked trails.
Refining Your Level of Competency
It took me twelve months of consistent training and practice before I was ready for that Grade 4 hike. Today, with over ten years of experience, I lead groups in remote areas. However, I continue to approach each hike with a methodical, safety-first mindset. I prefer to understate my abilities to avoid overconfidence.
The key to tackling harder hikes is simple:
Take baby steps, ask for advice, and practice relentlessly.
Although I recommend hiking with others for safety, I spent much of my early skill-building solo. This forced me to be fully self-reliant, removing distractions and challenges that would have come from group dynamics. Whether you hike solo or in a group, self-reliance is key. If you get separated from your group, you must be able to survive and navigate independently.
Decide the level of hiking you want to achieve and work towards it at your own pace. Expertise isn’t a destination; it’s a commitment to continuous learning and safety.
