¿What is the MIDE?
The MIDE is a method used for estimating excursion difficulties. It creates a scale with levels of technical difficulties of a route and a physical effort needed to go across it. This way, routes can be classified, and more information on them can be given.
The MIDE is a tool made for ramblers or hikers, so they can choose the route which suits their fitness and motivation. Therefore, the method is not only meant to provide information, but is also a tool, that giving the necessary information, makes the trip safer and prevents fom accidents in the hills.
Where did the idea come from?
The MIDE was developed in 2002 as a part of a ‘Mountaincan be enjoyed safely’ campaign. Before the campaign was started, its organizers (Government of Aragón - Civil Protection, Social and Cultural Actions of Ibercaja and Mountain Federation of Aragón) had thought about the importance of safety in the mountains for three years. In 2003, a Procedures Manual was presented and the method was ready for use.
What data does it offer?
The MIDE has route’s data and assessment information. Route’s data part describes the route which is being assessed (start and finish point, places it goes through, cumulative elevation gain and loss, horizontal distance, and a part of year that the assessment is done for).
Assessment information gives marks to four aspects: difficulty of the surrounding, difficulty of guiding that permits choosing and following the route, difficulty of movement (kind of a trail, etc.), and required effort for finishing the route
What does the MIDE assess?
The MIDE assesses from 1 to 5 (gradually from one) following aspects of difficulty:
- Natural Environment. Difficulty of Natural Environment.
- Itinerary. Guiding during the itinerary.
- Movement. Difficulty of movement.
- Effort. Requiredeffort.