Zerdly

Hiking Time Calculator

Estimates hiking time from distance, ascent and pace using Naismith's rule plus rests.

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How to use this calculator

Enter details

Distance(km)
Walking speed(km/h)
Total ascent(m)
Rest time(min)

Result

Fill in the fields to see your result.

Estimate only — real results depend on terrain, weather, fatigue, conditions and individual fitness. Not medical or coaching advice.

Before you rely on this: First-pass guide only. Verify safety-critical or regulated work against the relevant standards, your project requirements and a qualified professional.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the distance (km), your walking speed (km/h), total ascent (m) and any rest time.
  2. Read the estimated moving time and total time including rests.

How it works

Naismith's rule: allow about 1 hour per 5 km plus about 1 hour per 600 m of ascent, then add your rest time. This is a planning estimate, not a guarantee.

Worked example

10 km with 600 m ascent. At 5 km/h: 2 h walking + 1 h for the climb = about 3:00:00 moving time.

Common mistakes

  • Ignoring ascent — climbing adds roughly 1 minute per 10 m of height gained under Naismith's rule.
  • Forgetting breaks, terrain and pack weight, which all slow real hikes.

Tips

  • Times are estimates only — not medical or coaching advice. Always train safely and follow event rules.
  • Distances are editable: choose “Custom…” to enter your own course lengths.

Frequently asked questions

How is hiking time estimated?

Naismith's rule: allow about 12 minutes per kilometre plus 10 minutes per 100 m of ascent, then adjust for your fitness and load.

Does descent add time too?

Gentle descents can speed you up, but steep downhills slow you and tire the legs; add time for rough or very steep ground.

Does it account for descent or rough ground?

No — Naismith is a simple rule. Steep descents, scrambling, snow, heat or a heavy pack all add time; adjust your walking speed down to compensate.

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Cite this tool

Zerdly. (2026). Hiking Time Calculator. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/hiking-time-calculator/

Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.

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