Hiking Time Calculator: How Long Will Your Next Hike Take?

Estimating the time you will take to hike your next trail just became even easier with our custom-built hiking time calculator. We’ve built this tool that takes elevation, the terrain, and your pack weight into account!

We also wanted you to be able to use this tool whether you calculate in miles or kilometers. All you need to do is type in the distance of your planned trail and how many feet of elevation the trail gains.

Make sure you select whether you are using miles or kilometers for the distance! Then, select your fitness level, the type of terrain you’ll be covering, and what type of pack you’ll have.

After you’ve made all of your selections, just click the “calculate time” button, and an estimate of how long your hike will take appears below the button!

This estimate includes only moving time. It does not factor in any rest breaks, time to take in the views, or any time for a mid-hike snack. Factor in this extra time, too!

How do you Estimate Time for Hiking?

This tool uses Naismith’s Rule, which has been used since the 1890s! It’s still a really common way hikers calculate the time their hike will take.

The guidelines for this rule include 20 minutes for every 1 mile PLUS 60 minutes for every 2000 feet of elevation gained.

Remember, we did not include any time for breaks! Please factor in any expected breaks, like two 15-minute rest breaks or a 30-minute picnic lunch, if you plan to take these. We want to make sure you get back to your vehicle before darkness hits.

Factors That Affect Hiking Time

There are so many factors that can affect how much time you spend hiking a trail, and we’ve taken a few of them into account with this hiking time calculator. You can plan for elevation gain, your pack weight, and your fitness level ahead of time.

Other factors are more variable. Things to consider include:

These are things that you’ll have to consider closer to your planned hike. Weather and trail conditions are always changing!

Knowing Your Hiking Speed

After you get a few hikes under your belt, you’ll have a good idea of what your average hiking speed typically is.

Please realize that even your own hiking speed will vary greatly depending on how much weight you are carrying and the terrain you’re covering. Those who are used to hiking desert trails will find navigating the rocky trails in the northeast much slower.

For example, our speed typically ranges from 2 miles per hour when carrying our packs to 4 miles per hour on flat terrain with little weight. Take into account whether carrying weight on a longer trek versus an easy hike.

How To Improve Your Hiking Speed

There are a few things you can do to improve your hiking speed. Preparing for more difficult hikes ahead of time certainly pays off, allowing you to enjoy the views more!

Training for future hikes should include more than just walking. Add some strength training to your routine! Especially if you’re going to be carrying a heavier pack, your body will thank you for the advanced preparation!

You’ll also want to make sure you have the right gear and wear the right clothing. Cotton T-shirts are not the best! There are so many options for tech gear that fit within most budgets.

When you’re planning your next hike, this hiking time calculator will help you allow enough time to enjoy the views and get back before darkness. This useful tool takes various factors into account, such as distance, elevation, and terrain, to estimate how long your hike will take. Please use it to help you plan for a successful and enjoyable hiking experience.