What is rugged terrain?

An excellent question. In essence, rugged terrain is land that is difficult to traverse. It is uneven, broken, and often quite wild.

Imagine steep, rocky slopes and sharp changes in elevation. You will find very little flat ground. Think of mountain ranges, deep canyons, or a jagged, rocky coastline. It is the opposite of smooth plains or gentle, rolling hills. This type of landscape presents a real physical challenge. It demands effort and respect from anyone who travels through it.