Hiking Time Calculator
Enter the distance and elevation gain to estimate how long a hike will take — including breaks — and when you need to start to finish before dark.
The formula
The calculator uses a version of Naismith's rule, the classic hiking time estimate: time on the flat at your walking speed, plus extra time for every foot you climb. A steady hiker averages about 2.5 mph on the flat and adds an hour for every 1,500 ft of gain; relaxed hikers are closer to 2 mph and 1,000 ft per hour, and fit, fast hikers 3 mph and 2,000 ft per hour (Naismith's original). Long, steep descents add a little time too — they're hard on knees and slower than people expect.
Heavier packs slow everyone down, so overnight and heavy loads add 10–20%. Breaks are added on top of moving time: 10 minutes per hour is realistic for most groups once you count photos, snacks and layer changes.
Set a turnaround time
On an out-and-back hike, the turnaround time is the halfway point of your total time. Decide it before you start and stick to it — summit fever is how hikers end up descending in the dark or in an afternoon storm. Pair this with the sunrise and sunset calculator and the trail forecast, and always carry a headlamp.
Scrambling terrain is much slower than trail. On class 3 and 4 ground, budget extra time per mile — see our guides to class 3 and class 4 scrambles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to hike 10 miles?
On a mostly flat trail, a steady hiker covers 10 miles in about 4 to 5 hours including breaks. Add roughly an hour for every 1,500 feet of elevation gain.
What is Naismith's rule?
A rule of thumb from 1892: allow one hour for every 3 miles walked plus one hour for every 2,000 feet of ascent. Most hikers today use slower values, which is why this calculator offers three paces.
How fast does the average person hike?
About 2 to 3 miles per hour on flat, well-maintained trail, slowing considerably on steep climbs, rough terrain or at high altitude.
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