Question 1

What is Naismith's Rule?

Accepted Answer

Naismith's Rule is a formula for estimating the time required to complete a hiking route. It was developed by Scottish mountaineer William W. Naismith in 1892 and accounts for both horizontal distance and vertical ascent.

Question 2

How do I calculate hiking time?

Accepted Answer

Enter the distance in kilometers, the total climb in meters, the total descent in meters, and select the track grade difficulty. Click Calculate to get your estimated hiking time in hours and minutes, total minutes, and decimal hours.

Question 3

What track grades are available?

Accepted Answer

There are 5 track grades: Light Easy Going (vehicle track), Easy Going (well formed bush track), Medium Going, Bush track (sometimes obscure), and Thick bush (heavy going). Each grade affects your walking speed.

Naismith's Rule Calculator

Naismith's Rule Calculator

Estimated Time

In Minutes

In Decimal Hours