Trail Difficulty Rating Calculator
Analyze trail parameters to suggest appropriate difficulty ratings
Determine the appropriate difficulty rating for your mountain bike trail based on technical features, average grade, exposure, and other key parameters. Get consistent ratings that align with industry standards like IMBA trail difficulty classification system.
Results will appear here
Enter trail characteristics to calculate difficulty rating
Note: This calculator is a guideline only. Results may include a margin of error. Always verify in the field.
Step-by-step guide to determining the appropriate difficulty rating for your mountain bike trail using our calculator.
IMBA Trail Rating System
This calculator uses the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) trail difficulty rating system:
- Green Circle: Beginner-friendly trails with minimal technical challenge
- Blue Square: Intermediate trails with moderate technical features
- Black Diamond: Advanced trails with challenging technical features
- Double Black Diamond: Expert trails with very difficult features
- Pro Line: Extreme trails with high-consequence features
Enter Average Grade
Input the average slope percentage of your trail. This can be measured with a clinometer or calculated from elevation change divided by distance.
Enter Maximum Grade
Input the steepest slope percentage found on your trail. This represents the most challenging climbs or descents riders will encounter.
Enter Trail Width
Input the average width of your trail tread in inches or centimeters. Narrower trails are generally more technically challenging.
Select Trail Surface
Choose the predominant surface type of your trail, ranging from smooth (paved, crushed stone) to very rough (loose rocks, roots).
Select Technical Features
Check all the technical features present on your trail, such as drops, jumps, rock gardens, and tight turns.
Review Results
The calculator will provide a suggested difficulty rating based on the IMBA trail difficulty rating system, along with explanations of why the rating was assigned.
Results Update Automatically
The calculator will instantly provide results as you change the input values. No need to click a calculate button.
Trail difficulty rating systems help riders choose trails appropriate for their skill level. The IMBA system is widely used for mountain bike trails.
Easy (Green Circle)
Characteristics: Relatively flat with wide trail tread, smooth and firm surfaces, gentle climbs, and no obstacles.
Suitable for: Beginners, families, and riders seeking a relaxed experience.
Intermediate (Blue Square)
Characteristics: Moderate grades, narrower tread, some technical features, occasional obstacles, and varied surfaces.
Suitable for: Riders with basic off-road skills and some experience.
Advanced (Black Diamond)
Characteristics: Steeper grades, challenging technical features, narrow tread, unavoidable obstacles, and variable surfaces.
Suitable for: Experienced riders with good technical skills.
Expert (Double Black Diamond)
Characteristics: Very steep grades, highly technical features, very narrow tread, large unavoidable obstacles, and challenging surfaces.
Suitable for: Expert riders with advanced technical skills.
Pro (Red Pro Line)
Characteristics: Extreme grades, extremely technical features, very large mandatory drops or jumps, and high-consequence obstacles.
Suitable for: Professional-level riders with exceptional skills.
Consistent Rating Principles
1. Rate for the average user: Consider the experience of the typical rider, not expert locals.
2. Rate for the whole trail: Consider the most difficult features that cannot be avoided.
3. Be consistent: Apply the same criteria across your entire trail system.
