Given a rating of Challenge Level 5 (out of a maximum of 10), we consider AKMC to be a intermediate hiking trip that any moderately fit, motivated student can successfully complete with some prior preparation. Compared to similar hiking trips, we believe that AKMC is slightly more challenging than Maine’s Downeast Explorer (mostly due to the extended backcountry portion and slightly longer mileage), but easier than Northwest Explorer. Please note that all of Apogee’s Challenge Levels are not scientific and are subjectively calculated by the Apogee staff.