Estimate how long a hike will take
Add a horizontal time and an ascent allowance for every leg. Use cumulative ascent rather than subtracting the ending elevation from the starting elevation.
Estimate the legs of your route →
Allow for distance, climbing and stops
For 4 km and 300 m of ascent at 4 km/h and 600 m of ascent per hour, budget 60 minutes for distance and 30 minutes for climbing. Add a ten-minute stop for a total of 100 minutes.
Compare a slower pace
At 3 km/h and 450 m of ascent per hour, the same leg takes 80 minutes for distance and 40 minutes for climbing. With the stop it takes 130 minutes. Use your group’s slower pace to see where a return-time buffer disappears.
Adjust for the route and conditions
Add time for rough descents, navigation, crossings and delays. Check conditions, daylight and the route before leaving, and agree on a turnaround time.