Hiking time calculator
How long will the hike take? Enter distance, ascent and descent and the calculator works out the walking time using the official formula of the German and Austrian Alpine Clubs.
Hiking time
The Alpine Club formula
4 km per hour horizontally, 300 m of ascent per hour and 500 m of descent per hour. Horizontal and vertical times are calculated separately; the larger value counts fully and the smaller one half.
Example: 12 km with 800 m up and down → 3 h horizontal, 4.27 h vertical → 4.27 + 1.5 = 5:45 h.
What is not included
The result is walking time without breaks. Add 15–25% for rests. Children, heavy packs and difficult terrain take longer.
Frequently asked questions
Does the formula work for trail running or cycling?
No, it is meant for hikers.