Hike turnaround time calculator
Enter today's sunset time and when you started hiking. The calculator finds the latest time to turn around so you are back at the trailhead before dark, with a safety buffer, then counts down and sounds an alarm when it is time to head back.
Not sure of sunset? Check sunrise and sunset times for your location.
Time until you must turn around
How the turnaround time is worked out
If you hike out for a certain time, the way back usually takes about as long, a bit less when it's mostly downhill and more when you're climbing back out or tired. The calculator finds the latest turnaround time that gets you back to the trailhead by your buffer before sunset: turnaround = start + (sunset − buffer − start) ÷ (1 + return factor).
Staying safe
- Decide your turnaround time before you start, and stick to it even if the summit looks close.
- Carry a headlamp anyway; delays happen.
- In forests and deep valleys it gets dark well before sunset, so use a bigger buffer.
- Tell someone your route and when you expect to be back.
Questions people ask
What is a turnaround time on a hike?
The time you agree to head back to the trailhead, wherever you are, so you finish before dark or before bad weather. Set it before you start.
How do I calculate when to turn back on a hike?
Take the time from your start to your back-by time (sunset minus a buffer) and divide it between the way out and the way back. If the return is about the same pace, turn around at the halfway point of that window.
How early does it get dark in the woods?
Under thick tree cover, it can feel dark 30 minutes or more before sunset. Use a bigger buffer in forests and canyons.
Storm coming? Use the lightning timer to see how far away it is.