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Hiking time calculator (Naismith's rule)
Plan how long a walk will take — and when you need to turn back to finish in daylight.
Naismith's rule
In 1892 the Scottish mountaineer William Naismith suggested allowing an hour for every 3 miles (5 km) on the map, plus an hour for every 2,000 feet (600 m) of climbing. It is still the standard rule of thumb for hill walkers. It assumes fit walkers on reasonable paths with light packs and no stops.
Adjusting it
- Add rest stops — 10 minutes an hour is common.
- Slow it down for rough or boggy ground, snow, heavy packs, darkness and children.
- Steep descents take time too, though Naismith does not count them.
- Always plan by the slowest person in the group.
Check how much daylight is left before you set out.
For planning and general information. In an emergency, follow the instructions of your local authorities and call your emergency number (911, 112, 999 or 000).
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Source: W. W. Naismith, Scottish Mountaineering Club Journal, 1892.