Scoring Methodology

Suitability Score (0–100)

Each trail receives a daily score combining four weighted factors:

  • Weather Comfort (40 pts) — Temperature, humidity, wind chill, and precipitation probability vs ideal hiking ranges
  • Safety Risk (30 pts) — Lightning, heat stress, cold exposure, and high wind on exposed terrain
  • Seasonal Match (20 pts) — How well current conditions align with the trail’s typical best season
  • Daylight Window (10 pts) — Hours of daylight vs estimated hike duration

Rating Labels

ScoreLabelMeaning
85–100ExcellentIdeal conditions — go enjoy the trail
70–84GoodComfortable with normal preparation
50–69CautionManageable but plan for adverse conditions
0–49High RiskConsider rescheduling or extra safety gear

Data Sources

Weather data from Open-Meteo (updated daily via automated pipeline). Trail metadata from OpenStreetMap contributors. We do not guarantee accuracy — always verify with official NPS/USFS sources.

Limitations

Scores are informational, not professional safety advice. Microclimates, sudden storms, and trail closures can differ from forecast models. Use our scores as one input in your trip planning.

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