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Trail Pace & Time Estimator
Estimate total hiking time from distance and elevation gain, and get a recommended start time.
The formula, in plain terms
Total time = (distance ÷ flat pace) + (elevation gain ÷ climb rate), then increased by your slowdown percentage. The default climb rate of 2,000 ft per hour is a common approximation used in Naismith's-rule-style estimates — steep or loose terrain may warrant a lower climb rate (meaning more time per foot of gain).
Use it to plan your day, not just the hike
Once you have an estimated hiking time, working backward from a desired finish time (before dark, before a shuttle leaves, before dinner) gives you the start time that actually matters for planning the whole day, not just the trail itself.
Frequently asked questions
What is Naismith's rule?
Naismith's rule is a classic hiking-time estimate: roughly 1 hour per 3 miles of flat distance, plus 1 extra hour for every 2,000 ft of ascent. This calculator uses that same additive structure — flat-ground time plus climbing time — with pace and climb rate you can adjust for your own fitness and conditions.
Why include a pack weight / fitness slowdown percentage?
A heavy pack, poor footing, altitude or simply being out of hiking shape all slow you down beyond what distance and elevation alone predict. The slowdown percentage is a simple multiplier on the base Naismith's-style time — 10–20% is a common starting adjustment for a loaded overnight pack.
Does this include break time?
No — this estimates moving time only. Add extra time for lunch, photo stops, water breaks and navigation, especially on longer or more technical routes. Many hikers add 5–10 minutes per hour of estimated moving time as a rough break buffer.
Why might my recommended start time be earlier than I expect?
The estimate works backward from your desired finish time by subtracting the full adjusted hiking time — if elevation gain or the slowdown percentage is significant, that adds up faster than distance alone suggests, especially on steep trails.