Naismith’s rule, from an 1892 Scottish mountaineer, is still the standard way to plan hill walks: an hour for every 5 km plus an hour for every 600 m of climbing. Langmuir added that gentle descents speed you up and steep ones slow you down.
How to use the Hiking Time Calculator
- Terrain
- Descents
- Distance
- Total ascent
- Total descent
- Breaks
Results update as you type, every field has its own unit menu, and everything is calculated in your browser.
How it works
Choose the terrain and type of descent, then enter distance, total ascent, total descent and break time.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Terrain | Choose one: Good paths (5 km/h), Rough ground (4 km/h), Off-trail / difficult (3 km/h) |
| Descents | Choose one: Gentle (5–12°), Steep (over 12°) |
| Distance | Units: km, mi, m, yd |
| Total ascent | Units: m, ft |
| Total descent | Units: m, ft |
| Breaks | Units: min, h |
What each result means
- Walking time on the flat = [Distance]÷1000÷[Terrain]
- Added for ascent = [Total ascent]÷600
Formula
Time = distance ÷ speed (5 km/h on paths, 4 km/h rough) + 1 h per 600 m of ascent − 10 min per 300 m of gentle descent (+10 min per 300 m on steep descent) + breaks
Worked example
Inputs — Terrain: Good paths (5 km/h); Descents: Gentle (5–12°); Distance: 15 km; Total ascent: 800 m; Total descent: 800 m; Breaks: 30 min.
Results — Walking time on the flat = 3 h 0 min; Added for ascent = 1 h 20 min; Descent correction (minutes) = -27 min; Total hiking time = 4 h 23 min.
Key terms
- Ascent
- Total height climbed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Naismith's rule accurate?
It is a good guide for fit walkers; add time for heavy packs or large groups.
What is Tranter's correction?
An adjustment for fitness and fatigue on long days.
Should I include breaks?
Yes – plan 5–10 minutes per hour.
How do I estimate ascent?
Add up the climbs on a map or in a route-planning app.