🥾 Hiking Time Calculator
Plan your next trek by combining distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, and rest stops into a realistic time estimate.
Optional: descent impacts steep downhill time.
Total Time
5h 34m
5.57 hours
Moving Time
5.07 h
Base 2.40 h + Ascent 1.33 h + Descent 1.33 h
Average Pace
2.16 km/h
27.8 min/km
How to Use This Calculator
Map your route
Measure total distance and cumulative ascent/descent from GPS or topo maps.
Assess terrain
Choose easy, moderate, or difficult based on trail surface and technicality.
Add rest stops
Include lunch breaks, photo stops, or summit rests in total time.
Review schedule
Use the output to plan start time, turn-around points, and daylight requirements.
Formula
Base Time = Distance ÷ Base Speed
Ascent Time = Elevation Gain ÷ Climb Rate
Descent Adjustment = Elevation Loss ÷ 600 × Descent Factor
Total Time = Base + Ascent + Descent + Breaks
This calculator extends Naismith’s rule (5 km/h plus 1 hour per 600 m ascent) with terrain-based speed adjustments and a descent factor inspired by Langmuir’s modification for steep downhills.
Example
18 km, 1100 m ascent, 1100 m descent, moderate terrain, 45 min breaks → Base 3.6 h + Ascent 1.83 h + Descent 1.83 h + Breaks 0.75 h ≈ 8.0 h total.
Variables
- Distance: Kilometres to complete
- Base Speed: Terrain-adjusted km/h
- Climb Rate: Meters of ascent per hour per terrain
- Descent Factor: Slowdown for technical downhills
Planning a Safe Hike
Time estimates help prevent late finishes, avoid mountain weather changes, and ensure adequate supplies. Combine with daylight hours and bailout options for comprehensive trip planning.
Enhance Accuracy
- Adjust for fitness: faster hikers can increase base speed; beginners should decrease.
- Account for heavy packs or snow by bumping terrain difficulty up a level.
- Use past GPS tracks to calibrate average pace for your hiking style.
Essential Tips
- Start early and set a firm turnaround time.
- Carry extra water, nutrition, and layers even on short hikes.
- Check forecasts and trail conditions before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is Naismith’s rule?
It’s a guideline. Fitness, pack weight, trail conditions, and weather can shift pace. Use this estimate and adjust after real-world experience.
Should I include descent?
Yes—steep or technical descents take longer. The descent factor approximates additional time required on tricky terrain.
What about trail running?
Runners can input faster base speeds (e.g., switch terrain to easy or reduce distance manually). Consider run-walk strategies for ascents.
Can I plan multi-day routes?
Estimate each day separately. Add camp setup time, water collection, and longer breaks to the daily total.
How do I account for group pace?
Use the pace of the slowest member. Consider increasing break time and selecting moderate terrain to keep the group together.