Hiking Calculator – Overview

The Hiking Calculator helps you estimate how long your hike will take and how many calories you’ll burn based on key factors such as distance, elevation gain, average speed, your body weight, and backpack weight.

📐 Time Estimation Formula

This tool uses the well-known Naismith’s Rule to estimate hiking time:

🕒 Estimated Time = (Distance / Speed) + (Elevation Gain / 600)

• Distance: in kilometers or miles

• Speed: your average walking speed (km/h or mph)

• Elevation Gain: total uphill elevation in meters or feet

• For every 600 meters (or ~2000 ft) of ascent, add one hour

This formula provides a simple and practical estimate for most hiking conditions.

Calories Burned Formula

Calories burned are calculated using the standard fitness formula:

🔥 Calories = MET × Body Weight (kg) × Time (hours)

• MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task): for hiking, it’s typically around 7.5

• The tool increases the MET based on your backpack weight — heavier gear means more energy burned

Why Use This Tool?

• Plan your hiking route more efficiently

• Estimate how much food, water, or time you’ll need

• Easily switch between metric (km/kg) and imperial (mi/lbs) units

• Great for both beginners and experienced hikers