JournalHow to Judge Trail Difficulty Before You Start Hiking
In short: Judge a trail by distance, total climb, terrain, exposure, heat and the time you have. Naismith's rule gives a rough walking time: one hour for every 5 km plus one hour for every 600 metres of ascent. Add time for groups, children, heat and breaks.
Quick facts
| Naismith's rule | 1 hour per 5 km plus 1 hour per 600 m of ascent |
|---|---|
| Add time for | Heat, children, big groups, rough ground and rest stops |
| Check also | Permissions, season and weather |
What to look at
- Distance: the total length, one way or loop.
- Elevation gain: the total climb, not just the summit height.
- Terrain: smooth path, rocky steps, scree or scrambling.
- Exposure: drops, narrow ledges and no shade.
- Weather and heat: temperature, humidity, rain and wind.
- Remoteness: distance from help and mobile coverage.
A worked example with Naismith's rule
Take an 8 km route with 600 metres of climbing. Naismith's rule gives 1.6 hours for distance and 1 hour for ascent, about 2.6 hours of walking time one way. Add breaks, heat, photographs and slower group members; many hikers add 10 to 25 per cent or more. Remember to allow time for the descent.
Rough difficulty bands
| Band | Typical features | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Easy | Under about 5 km, little climb, clear path | Beginners and families |
| Moderate | 5 to 12 km, some climbing, uneven ground | Regular walkers |
| Hard | Long, steep, exposed or remote | Experienced hikers with a plan |
Ask before you go
- Is the trail open and what permission is needed?
- Is a guide required? Tamil Nadu's 2018 rules required one.
- What is the turn-around time?
- Where is the water and the nearest help?
Related guides
See beginner-friendly hiking near Coimbatore, the day hike packing list and, for a worked fort example, the Rajagiri climb.
Frequently asked questions
What is Naismith's rule?
A rule of thumb that estimates walking time as 1 hour per 5 km plus 1 hour per 600 metres of ascent.
How much time should I add?
Add margin for breaks, heat, group pace and the descent.
Is elevation gain more important than distance?
Both matter; steep climbs can make a short hike hard.
What is a turn-around time?
A time at which you head back regardless of where you are.
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