Walking 85 miles is a significant undertaking, a true testament to endurance and planning. This isn't a casual stroll in the park; it demands careful consideration of pace, terrain, breaks, and overall physical fitness. So, how long will it actually take? There's no single answer, but let's break down the factors and provide you with a realistic estimate.
Factors Affecting Walking Time
Several crucial factors influence the time it takes to walk 85 miles:
1. Your Walking Pace:
- Average Pace: A casual walker might average 3 miles per hour (mph). A more experienced hiker or someone in good physical condition could manage 4 mph or even more.
- Terrain: Flat, paved surfaces allow for faster speeds than hilly, uneven terrain. Rough terrain can significantly slow you down.
- Carrying Weight: A heavier backpack slows your pace. Consider the weight of your gear and its impact on your speed.
2. Rest and Breaks:
- Essential Breaks: Regular breaks are vital to avoid exhaustion and injury. Plan for short breaks every hour or so, and longer rest periods throughout the day.
- Overnight Stops: For a distance like 85 miles, overnight stops are essential. This allows for proper rest and recovery.
3. Physical Fitness:
- Training: Prior training is crucial. Build up your endurance gradually, increasing your walking distance and duration over time. This will prevent injuries and allow you to maintain a consistent pace.
- Experience: Experienced walkers will naturally be faster and more efficient than beginners.
Estimating the Time: Scenarios
Let's look at different scenarios to estimate the time it might take:
Scenario 1: Casual Walker, Flat Terrain, No Weight
- Pace: 3 mph
- Walking Time: 85 miles / 3 mph = 28.33 hours
- With Breaks: Adding breaks (let's assume 1 hour of breaks for every 8 hours of walking), this could easily stretch to 35 hours.
- Multiple Days: This would likely take 2 to 3 days, depending on your break schedule.
Scenario 2: Experienced Walker, Moderate Terrain, Light Pack
- Pace: 4 mph
- Walking Time: 85 miles / 4 mph = 21.25 hours
- With Breaks: With similar breaks, the total time could reach approximately 26-27 hours.
- Multiple Days: This could potentially be completed in a little over 1 day if your breaks are minimal.
Scenario 3: Challenging Terrain, Heavy Pack
- Pace: 2 mph (significantly slower due to terrain and weight)
- Walking Time: 85 miles / 2 mph = 42.5 hours
- With Breaks: This would easily extend beyond 50 hours or more.
- Multiple Days: This might take 3-4 days or more.
Planning Your 85-Mile Walk
Regardless of your scenario, thorough planning is essential:
- Route Planning: Carefully map your route, considering terrain, water sources, and potential accommodation options.
- Gear: Pack appropriately for the weather conditions and terrain. This includes comfortable footwear, appropriate clothing, a first-aid kit, and sufficient food and water.
- Navigation: Carry a map and compass, or a GPS device.
- Safety: Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time.
In Conclusion: Walking 85 miles is a challenging feat. The time it takes depends heavily on individual factors. Using the scenarios above as a guide, you can make a more accurate prediction based on your fitness level, experience, and the specific conditions of your walk. Remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the journey!
