Calculate elevation gain per mile from total elevation gain and distance, plus climb-density percent, illustrative climbing band, and estimated hiking time.
Elevation Gain Per Mile Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the Elevation Gain Per Mile.
Variables:
- EGPM is the Elevation Gain Per Mile (feet/mile or meters/kilometer)
- EG is the total Elevation Gain (feet or meters)
- D is the total Distance covered (miles or kilometers)
To calculate the Elevation Gain Per Mile, divide the total Elevation Gain by the total Distance covered. This will give you the average increase in altitude per unit of distance, which is one input to understanding a trail or route; it does not establish a complete difficulty rating. A higher Elevation Gain Per Mile indicates a steeper and potentially more challenging climb.
| Elevation gain per mile | Equivalent gain per kilometer | Climb density (% of route distance) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 ft/mi | 18.9 m/km | 1.89% |
| 250 ft/mi | 47.3 m/km | 4.73% |
| 500 ft/mi | 94.7 m/km | 9.47% |
| 1,000 ft/mi | 189.4 m/km | 18.94% |
These are route-wide averages of cumulative ascent, not actual net or local slope grades. Short, steep climbs and descents can produce the same gain-per-mile value as a steadier ascent, so use the detailed route profile when terrain distribution matters.
What is an Elevation Gain Per Mile?
Elevation Gain Per Mile is a measurement used by hikers, runners, and cyclists to determine the amount of uphill climb in a particular route or trail. It is calculated by dividing the total elevation gain (the cumulative increase in altitude) by the total distance covered. This measurement helps to assess the difficulty level of a trail or route, with a higher elevation gain per mile indicating a steeper and potentially more challenging climb.
How to Calculate Elevation Gain Per Mile?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Elevation Gain Per Mile.
- First, determine the total Elevation Gain (EG) in feet or meters.
- Next, determine the total Distance covered (D) in miles or kilometers.
- Next, gather the formula from above: EGPM = EG / D.
- Finally, calculate the Elevation Gain Per Mile.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Total Elevation Gain (EG) = 500 feet
Total Distance covered (D) = 10 miles
