>What does a "class three section" entail? Do you need like
>ropes and such? Here are the definitions, quoted from Paul Richins, Jr.'s "Mount Whitney" trail guide.
Class 1: Trail walking.
Class 2: Includes hiking over uneven terrain, through brush, and up and around rock bluffs, steep gullies, scree (loose and sandy rock), and talus, where the hands may be needed for balance.
Class 3: Terrain becomes steeper and the exposure increases. Arms and hands are used for balance and leverage. Handholds are easily identified. There is an increased risk of falling and becoming injured. Some inexperienced hikers may desire a roped belay over certain Class 3 terrain.
Class 4: Terrain is steep and exposed. Most climbers need a rope for protection. Skill and a thorough knowledge of climbing procedure and rope techniques are necessary. Handholds are smaller and less defined. There is a greater risk of falling and injury. Falling could result in a broken leg or arm or even more serious injury.
Class 5: This begins the ratings for the technical rock climbing using rope, helmet, and hardware. It demands experience and knowledge of climbing techniques and rope management. A fall could result in death. Class 5 climbing is broken into a decimal system of rating from 5.0 through 5.14. When climbing aid is necessary, an additional rating of A1 through A5 is used.
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