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In the following paragraphs there is some basic information, from the very origins of hiking to the knowledge of the signs or the ‘MIDE’ method that all hikers must keep in mind.
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.
El 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 from accidents in the hills by giving the necessary information.
The MIDE was developed in 2002 as a part of a ‘Mountain can 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 been considering the importance of safety in the mountains for three years. In 2003, a Procedures Manual was presented and the method was ready for use.
The MIDE has route’s data and assessment information. The part with the 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 in choosing the right direction or following the route, difficulty of movement (kind of a trail, etc.), and required effort for finishing the route.
The MIDE assesses from 1 to 5 (gradually from one) following aspects of difficulty:
• Natural Environment. Difficulty of Natural Environment.
• Itinerary. Difficulty in choosing the right direction along the itinerary.
• Movement. Difficulty of movement.
• Effort. Required effort.