Loddon Tracks and Trails Strategy - Loddon Shire Council

7.7 Classifications of Tracks and Trails
Walkers, cyclists, canoeists and horse riders seek different types of experiences and challenges when choosing whether or not to
use a specific track or trail. Whilst some people prefer short trails with sealed surfaces and a high level of supporting infrastructure,
others prefer a more rugged wilderness type experience which is physically challenging and may take several days (or longer) to
complete. There is a place for a broad range of tracks and trails to exist within Loddon, thereby providing a diversity of experiences
for local residents and visitors to the area.
Various industry accepted classifications already exist for each activity. There are currently Australian Standards for Walking Tracks,
however the Department of Sustainability and Environment is undertaking a project to develop improved national standards that are
used consistently across all tracks and trails in Australia. International Mountain Biking Trail Classifications also exist, based on
international trail marking for ski fields. The trail system used by horse riding in South Australia (and used in other parts of the
country) is also based on the ski trail system. In relation to canoeing and kayaking, there is an internationally recognised
classification of grades of water. The canoeing classification system involves six different levels; walking and mountain biking, five;
and horse riding, three.
Each of the classifications varies somewhat. Both the canoeing and mountain biking classifications for instance, only focus on the
degree of difficulty of the water or the track, rather than the length of time it would take to complete the section, or the distance of the
section. Horse riding classifications focus on both the degree of difficulty and the length, although its most difficult grading can be
any length. The draft walking track guidelines focus on the degree of difficulty and will also provide information about the length and
anticipated time it would take to complete the trail.
Therefore it is suggested for Loddon Shire that in relation to classifications, trail head signage, brochures, internet maps, etc all
contain the following information:
• Degree of difficulty – based on the recognised standard for each activity (refer to Appendix)
• Distance of trail – measured by Loddon Shire
• Time it is likely to take to complete the trail – measured by timing a number of people to complete the trail and determining an
average time, or using the following estimations of time (recognising that the more difficult the track or waterway, the slower
people will travel):
o Walking – approximately 4-5km per hour
o Cycling – approximately 12-16km per hour
o Horse riding – approximately 6km per hour
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