Hike Difficulty Calculator
Rate how hard a hike is from its distance and elevation gain, on a scale from easy to very hard.
Difficulty score
156
Difficulty rating
HardA long or steep day that rewards good fitness and an early start.
All results are estimates. Weather, terrain, pack weight and fitness affect real-world numbers.
The difficulty scale
| Difficulty score | Difficulty rating | |
|---|---|---|
| 0-49 | Easy | Comfortable for most fitness levels, including beginners and families. |
| 50-99 | Moderate | A proper workout - fine for anyone who hikes now and then. |
| 100-159 | Hard | A long or steep day that rewards good fitness and an early start. |
| 160+ | Very hard | A serious undertaking - train for it, start at dawn and check conditions. |
How it works
- 1
Enter the total distance and elevation gain of the hike.
- 2
The calculator combines them into a single difficulty score using the Shenandoah formula.
- 3
Use the rating to compare hikes and pick one that matches your fitness.
Frequently asked questions
How is the difficulty score calculated?
With the formula used by Shenandoah National Park: the square root of 2 x elevation gain (in feet) x distance (in miles). It rewards both length and steepness.
What counts as elevation gain?
The sum of all uphill sections, not just the difference between the start and the summit. Rolling trails gain more than you would guess.
Does the rating account for terrain or altitude?
No - scrambling, snow, and thin air above 3000 m all make a hike feel harder than its score suggests.
Take your plan to a real trail
Browse thousands of hiking trails with maps, elevation profiles and weather - and find hiking buddies to join you.