We rate each course based on their elevation profile and quality of their surface. Both are on a scale of 1-5.

Elevation

1 Flat or nearly flat

2 Rolling, total climb up to 50 feet per mile (2500 feet in 50 miles)

3 Hilly, total climb between 50 and 150 feet per mile (2500 - 7500 feet in 50 miles)

4 Very hilly, total climb between 150-250 feet per mile (7500-12,500 feet in 50 miles)

5 Mountainous, total climb more than 250 feet per mile

Surface

1 Paved or very smooth surface

2 Mostly groomed trail or dirt roads

3 Trail or dirt road with some rocks, root, and/or ruts

4 Trail or dirt road with substantial rocks, roots and/or ruts

5 Very rough trail