Hiking Time Calculator
Estimate your hiking time using Naismith's rule and terrain corrections
Calculate Hiking Time
Total distance of your hike
Total elevation gain during the hike
Total elevation loss during the hike
Total time for rest stops and breaks
Hiking Time Results
Calculation Method: Naismith's Rule with Aitken and Langmuir corrections
Base Formula: 1 hour per 3 miles + 1 hour per 2,000 feet ascent
Ground Speed: 3 mph (paths/roads)
Example Calculations
Angel's Landing, Zion National Park
Distance: 5.2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
Terrain: Well-maintained trail with steep sections
Ground condition: Paths and trails
Calculation
Distance time: 5.2 miles ÷ 3 mph = 1.73 hours
Ascent time: 1,500 feet ÷ 2,000 feet/hour = 0.75 hours
Total hiking time: 1.73 + 0.75 = 2.48 hours (2h 29m)
Difficulty: Challenging - requires good fitness
Naismith's Rule
Base Formula (1892)
Allow 1 hour for every 3 miles forward + 1 hour for every 2,000 feet of ascent
Modern Corrections
Hiking Safety Tips
Start early to avoid afternoon storms and heat
Bring more water than calculated - 1 liter per 2 hours minimum
Check weather forecast and trail conditions
Inform someone of your hiking plan and expected return
Add 25-50% buffer time for inexperienced hikers
Factors That Affect Hiking Time
Personal Factors
Environmental Factors
Difficulty Levels
Understanding Hiking Time Calculation
Naismith's Rule History
Developed in 1892 by Scottish mountaineer William Naismith, this rule provides a simple method to estimate hiking time. Despite being over 130 years old, it remains remarkably accurate for planning purposes.
Modern Corrections
- •Aitken's Correction (1977): Adjusts speed based on terrain type
- •Langmuir's Correction: Accounts for descent impact on hiking time
- •Tranter's Corrections: Considers fitness level and fatigue
Calculation Method
Limitations
- • Assumes average fitness level
- • Doesn't account for weather conditions
- • May underestimate time for technical terrain
- • Doesn't consider group dynamics
Tip: Add 25-50% buffer time for safety, especially for inexperienced hikers or challenging conditions.