Green runs correspond fairly closely (although they are not found everywhere in Europe). Blue runs are similar, but American blues include some tougher intermediate runs that would be graded as red in the Alps. Single back diamond runs correspond to steeper European reds and the easier European blacks.

Green: Beginner
Very gentle gradient, for the first time skiers..

Blue: Easy (Novice/early intermediate)
Improvers area. .Able to snowplough turn confidently, and parallel slightly.

Red: Medium (Advanced intermediate)
Able to link together short radius parallel turns. Some parts of red runs will have a steep gradient.

Green circle: Novice
Comfortable on easy, groomed terrain.. Able to stop and turn in both directions.

Blue square: Intermediate
Confident on more difficult groomed and unpacked terrain. .Rhythmical movements and can control speed and direction.

Black diamond: Advanced
Can easily adapt to changes on varying terrain and in all snow conditions.

Double black diamond: Extreme skiing
Use extra caution.

These symbols comprise the standard international trail marking system. They describe only the relative degree of challenge of a particular trail COMPARED WITH ALL OTHER TRAILS AT THAT ONE SKI AREA. Also, gradients and difficulty vary within each trail.

Therefore, it is always a good idea to start off on the "Easier" trails when visiting a new ski area; then, if you wish, progress to the "More Difficult" and "Most Difficult" as you get a feel for the area's general degree of difficulty. Snow conditions, visibility and the number of skiers can make a trail more difficult to ski than its rating may indicate.