Hiking Calorie Calculator – Estimate Calories Burned on the Trail
Calorie Calculator
Science-Backed Accuracy for Trail Nutrition
Use our Hiking Calorie Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on the terrain, your pack weight, distance, and more.
Built by a registered dietitian and tested in real-world conditions, this tool is more accurate than generic calorie calculators and GPS apps—and 100% free to use.
Why Hikers Trust This Calculator:
- Custom inputs: Your body, pace, pack weight, terrain, altitude, and weather.
- Science-based: Formulas used by military, Olympic Committee, and pro sports.
- Thru-hiker approved: Trusted by ultralight and long-distance hikers worldwide.
- Versatile: Works for both day hikes and overnight backpacking trips.
Featured by Backpacker Magazine as a clever tool for smarter backpacking meal planning
Get Your FREE Guide
Tips for using the Calorie Calculator and how to use your results correctly!
"*" indicates required fields
(Most hikers unknowingly make mistakes when calculating their calorie needs—don’t let this happen to you!)
This FREE guide will help you:
- Understand your results so you don’t over- or under-pack food.
- Avoid common mistakes that lead to inaccurate estimates.
- Get expert-backed meal planning tips for maximizing trail energy.
"I used the calculator for my seven-day Sierras loop hike. The calculator estimated 4,700 calories each day, but I didn’t believe it so I split the difference 😬 between my normal caloric intake and 4700 and settled on a daily intake of 3,200. My Garmin recorded an average 4,000+ calories on easy days, and 5,000+ on high-effort days. My body was not fueled effectively 😩 and bonked because I didn’t follow the calculator.
I will closely follow the calculator for future trips!!"
— Peter G.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about our Backpacking Calorie Calculator
What’s the best food to bring backpacking?
It depends on your trip length, terrain, and cooking setup. Our free downloads include meal plans and checklists to help you choose high-calorie, lightweight foods that work on real trails.
How do I plan meals for a backpacking trip?
Start by calculating daily calorie needs using our calculator, then organize meals by day, prep style, and nutrition goals. Our free tools—including a calorie calculator, planning worksheet, and checklists—walk you through every step.
How much food should I pack per day for hiking?
Most backpackers need 2,500–4,500 calories per day, depending on effort, terrain, and a variety of other factors. Our free planner and calculator guide help you pack just the right amount—without over- or underfueling.
What’s included in Backcountry Foodie’s free downloads?
You’ll get meal planning checklists, hiking calorie calculator, nutrition worksheets, sample recipes, and a beginner-friendly meal plan—all designed by a registered dietitian and long-distance backpacker.
Do I need to sign up to access the free downloads?
Yes—just enter your email and you’ll get instant access to the requested resource. No spam, ever. Just helpful tools to fuel your next adventure. Unsubscribe at any time.
Need Help Planning?
Backcountry Foodie's Other Services Can Help!
Ultralight Recipes
Ultralight backpacking recipes designed by a dietitian. Lightweight, high-calorie meals for optimal trail nutrition.
Meal Planner
Simplify backpacking meal prep with our ultralight meal planner. Save time, reduce weight, and fuel your adventures with ease.
Nutrition Coaching
Get expert backpacking nutrition advice from registered dietitians. Optimize trail meals, energy, and performance with 1-on-1 coaching.
