Hiking Time Calculator

Estimate hiking time using Naismith's Rule. Enter distance, elevation gain, and fitness level for total time including rest stops.

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miles
ft

Moving Time

3.7 hr

Total Time (with breaks)4.4 hr
Average Moving Speed2.2 mph

Moving Time vs Trail Distance

View formula & how it works →

How Hiking Time Is Estimated

Naismith's Rule

Developed in 1892 by Scottish mountaineer William Naismith:

Time = Distance / Speed + Elevation Gain / Climbing Rate

  • Flat walking speed: ~3 miles per hour
  • Climbing rate: ~2,000 ft per hour (adds time for elevation gain)

    • Adjustments

  • Fitness factor: Adjusts for individual speed
  • Break time: Add 20% for rest stops, water breaks, photos, and navigation
  • Descent: Steep descents are almost as slow as climbing. This calculator focuses on ascent.

    • Example Calculation

    Estimate time for an 8-mile trail with 2,000 ft elevation gain, average fitness.

    1. 01Flat time = 8 / 3 = 2.67 hours.
    2. 02Climb time = 2000 / 2000 = 1.0 hours.
    3. 03Moving time = (2.67 + 1.0) x 1 = 3.67 hours.
    4. 04Total with breaks = 3.67 x 1.2 = 4.4 hours.
    5. 05Average speed = 8 / 3.67 = 2.2 mph.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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