The T-Scale is an official system developed by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) to classify hiking and mountain trails based on their technical difficulty, terrain, and exposure.
It ranges from T1 (easiest) to T6 (most difficult), and it’s widely used across the Alps — including on trail maps, signs, and guidebooks.
Use the search bar to find your trail using the T-scale.
Trail Type: Well-marked, wide paths or gravel roads.
Terrain: Flat or gently rolling.
Requirements: No special footwear or skills needed.
Exposure: Minimal, no risk of falling.
🟢 Ideal for beginners and families.
Trail Type: Narrow mountain paths, possibly with uneven terrain.
Terrain: May include rocks or roots.
Requirements: Good hiking shoes, basic fitness, surefootedness.
Exposure: Some steep sections, but generally safe.
🟢 For hikers with basic mountain experience.
Trail Type: Rocky paths, possibly with some hands needed for balance.
Terrain: Steeper slopes, loose stones, narrow passages.
Requirements: Good balance, strong footwear, stable steps.
Exposure: Moderate – may include short exposed sections.
🟠 Requires confidence and solid mountain experience.
Trail Type: Poorly marked or unmarked paths, often with scree or snowfields.
Terrain: Steep and rough.
Requirements: Very good fitness, surefootedness, orientation skills.
Exposure: Significant – may require the use of hands or fixed cables.
🔴 For experienced mountain hikers only.
Trail Type: Exposed alpine terrain, unmarked, often crossing rocks or glaciers.
Terrain: Very steep, unstable ground.
Requirements: Excellent mountaineering skills, experience in navigation and safety.
Exposure: High – ropes or crampons may be required in some sections.
🔴 For expert alpinists with proper equipment.
Trail Type: Pathless terrain, exposed ridges, loose rock, or snowfields.
Terrain: Technical and dangerous.
Requirements: Full alpine competence, perfect orientation, rope use, climbing experience.
Exposure: Extreme – a fall would likely be fatal.
⚫ Only for professional mountaineers.
