Hiking Time Estimates: Naismith vs. MIDE
Groups estimate the time for three real routes using two methods, Naismith's rule and the Spanish MIDE system, and compare the results. It helps set a departure time and a turnaround time based on data instead of guesswork.
How to play
- Explanation: Naismith adds 1 hour per 5 km plus 1 hour per 600 m of climbing. MIDE calculates a horizontal time at 4 km/h and a vertical time (400 m/h up, 600 m/h down); the total is the larger one plus half of the smaller (5 min).
- In groups of three, students calculate both estimates for three routes with distance, elevation gain, and elevation loss. Everything is worked in minutes (8 min).
- Comparison on the board: where the methods agree and where they split. Look closely at routes with lots of descent, which Naismith ignores (4 min).
- Real-world adjustments: add breaks, the slowest hiker's pace, and daylight hours on the trip date. Each group sets a departure time and a latest return time (6 min).
- Share-out: each group states its decision in one sentence and backs it with a number (2 min).
Rules
- Do all calculations in minutes and round at the end.
- Each group assigns roles: calculator, checker, and spokesperson.
- No return time can be less than one hour before sunset.
- Check the route data before calculating.
Variations
Easier
One route only, using Naismith alone.
Standard
Three routes with both methods and group adjustments.
Harder
Add a route with snow or a big descent and debate which method fits better and why.
Adaptations
- Dyscalculia: a template with the operations already written and blanks for the data.
- Visually impaired: large-print sheets or a digital version for a screen reader.
- Hesitant students: start as the checker before calculating.
Learning goals
- Estimate a route's time using two established methods.
- Explain why the methods give different results.
- Set safe departure and return times for a specific group.
Equipment for a class of 25
- route sheets with profiles: 10
- calculators: 10
Teacher tip
Pull routes from a nearby park's trail pages or a route website and double-check the numbers first. The usual mistake is mixing hours and minutes; make everyone work in minutes.
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