Navigating Trails: Trail Difficulty Ratings

Written By Falls Area SingleTrack (FAST)

FAST utilizes the IMBA Trail Difficulty Rating System. A basic method used to categorize the relative technical difficulty of recreation trails.

The IMBA Trail Difficulty Rating System can:

  • Help trail users make informed decisions

  • Encourage visitors to use trails that match their skill level

  • Manage risk and minimize injuries

  • Improve the outdoor experience for a wide variety of visitors

  • Aid in the planning of trails and trail systems

This system was adapted from the International Trail Marking System used at ski areas throughout the world. Many trail networks use this type of system, most notably resort-based mountain biking trail networks. The system applies to mountain bikers best, but also is applicable to other visitors such as hikers and trail runners.

Source: International Mountain Biking Association - https://www.imba.com/resource/trail-difficulty-rating-system

Falls Area SingleTrack (FAST)

Falls Area SingleTrack’s (FAST) mission is to protect, create, and enhance quality trail experiences for mountain bikers in cooperation with other trail users in the Sioux Falls area. FAST actively promotes responsible trail use, supports volunteer trail work, assists land managers with trail management issues, and improves relations among all trail user groups.

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