Estimating hiking time
How do you estimate the time it will take you to cover a certain distance on a hike? The answer can only be based on your experience over time. For me, I allow about 20 minutes per mile if I’m carrying a 10-20 pound day pack. I then add time for other factors. For example, I add one hour for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. I also allow about 30 minutes for lunch and additional time if I’m traveling with a group or if want to stop and enjoy water features, wildlife or spectacular views. I also factor in temperature, knowing that if I’m hiking in 100°F temperatures, I’ll be taking more time for resting and hydrating.

Making these calculations in advance of any outdoor adventure can avert many problems, like being caught on a difficult stretch of trail at sundown. But making accurate calculations only comes as you combine your experience with solid information found on topo maps and in discussion with other hikers of similar skill level.