Plan the Hike: Trail Time Estimation
In groups, students use a topographic map to measure a route's distance and elevation gain, estimate its duration and check their real pace on a test loop. Students practice outdoor trip planning and pacing.
How to play
- Spend 5 minutes explaining a simple rule of thumb: allow 1 hour for every 2.5 miles on flat ground and add 1 hour for every 1,300 feet of climbing; breaks are added separately.
- Make 6 groups of 4. Each group gets a topographic map with a marked route and measures the distance with the map scale and the elevation gain by counting contour lines (8 minutes).
- Each group works out the total time, plans two breaks and writes start and return times on the map.
- Head out to the field: mark a quarter-mile loop with cones. Groups walk 2 laps at hiking pace while the teacher times them (about 8 minutes).
- Each group calculates its real speed in miles per hour, compares it with the rule of thumb and adjusts its route schedule if they are slower or faster.
- Hold a 3-minute discussion: what would make the hike take longer (heat, backpacks, mixed fitness levels)?
Rules
- The group walks together at the pace of its slowest member.
- Walk at hiking pace, not running, so the data is realistic.
- Every member must be able to explain the final calculation.
- Drink water after the laps, especially in hot weather.
Variations
Easier
Use a flat route and calculate time from distance only.
Standard
Calculate distance, elevation gain and total time including breaks.
Harder
Add elevation loss and choose which of two routes is safer for a short winter afternoon.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student completes the test loop at their own pace and the group plans an accessible route.
- Visual impairment: use an enlarged map or one with raised contour lines, and have a partner read the data aloud.
- Higher fitness: add a third lap carrying a loaded backpack and compare speeds.
Learning goals
- Calculate distance, elevation gain and duration of a route from a topographic map.
- Connect real walking pace with trip planning.
- Plan an outdoor outing with safety in mind.
Equipment for a class of 25
- topographic maps: 6
- pencils: 6
- stopwatch: 1
- cones: 8
Teacher tip
Use the actual route of an upcoming field trip so the math feels meaningful. Check the contour interval with them, since it is often misread.
PatioLab has "Plan the Hike: Trail Time Estimation" and 1299 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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