Hiking Time Calculator (Naismith's Rule)
Enter the route distance and total ascent to estimate how long the hike will take.
Your numbers
Your results
Hiking Time Calculator (Naismith's Rule) by TheCalcTools
How the Hiking Time Calculator (Naismith's Rule) works
Naismith’s rule (1892) allows 1 hour for every 5 km on the flat plus 1 hour for every 600 m of ascent. It suits fit walkers on good paths and remains the standard for planning hill walks.
Langmuir’s refinement adds about 10 minutes for every 300 m of steep descent. Slow the pace for rough ground, heavy packs, snow or a mixed group, and add time for stops.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Distance (km) | 14 |
|---|---|
| Total ascent (m) | 900 |
| Steep descent (m) | 0 |
| Walking pace on the flat (km/h) | 5 |
| Climbing rate (m of ascent per hour) | 600 |
| Rest and photo stops | 10 % |
| Start time | 08:00 |
- 14 km with 900 m of ascent: 14 ÷ 5 = 2.8 h plus 900 ÷ 600 = 1.5 h, so 4 h 18 min moving.
- With 10% for stops: 4 h 44 min, finishing at 12:44 PM.
Result:
| Estimated hiking time | 4 h 44 min |
|---|---|
| Moving time | 4 h 18 min |
| Finish time | 12:44 PM |
| Equivalent flat distance (km) | 21.5 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Naismith's rule accurate?
For fit walkers on good paths it is a good start. Many people need 20% to 50% more time; time yourself on a few hikes and adjust the pace and climbing rate.
What about very steep terrain or scrambling?
The rule underestimates scrambles, snow and boulder fields. Allow much more time and turn back if you will lose daylight.
Sources and further reading
Related calculators
More in Travel · All calculators
This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.