How Long Does It Take to Walk 6 Miles? Your Go-To Guide

On average, a person walking at a brisk pace of around 3 to 4 miles per hour can cover 6 miles in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

If you walk faster, you will finish the distance faster. If you walk slower, it will take longer.

In this article, I will talk about how far is 6 miles, walking speed, terrain, and personal fitness levels.

My Personal Stories of Walking 6 Miles

I will tell you some personal stories from my own 6-mile walks. These stories are not about going fast or doing amazing things.

They are about the simple joys and things I found along the way.

One day, I decided to explore the city on foot and mapped out a 6-mile route through various neighborhoods.

What started as a simple stroll turned into a discovery of hidden murals, charming local cafes, and vibrant street art. Walking through the city unveiled a side I had never noticed before, turning a routine exercise into a delightful urban adventure.

On another occasion, I opted for a nature trail for my 6-mile walk. Surrounded by tall trees and the soothing sounds of birdsong, the walk became a meditative experience.

The changing scenery, fresh air, and the occasional rustle of leaves under my feet created a sense of tranquility that made the miles feel effortless.

Deep Dive into Factors Affecting Walk Time

Generally speaking, it takes the average person around 1.5 to 2 hours to walk 6 miles, 

Let’s think about the important factors that determine how much time it takes to walk 6 miles. Then, we can look at the estimated times.

1. Walking Speed

Your walking speed determines how quickly you can complete the distance. Are you a fast walker or do you prefer to walk slowly? Walking faster means you will finish the distance more quickly.

Below I will show how far is 6 miles.

Actually, 6 miles is equal to 9.656 kilometers or 15,842 meters or 52,800 feet

Walking SpeedTime to Walk 6 Miles
2 mph3 hours
3 mph2 hours
4 mph1.5 hours
Chart Of How Long Does It Take to Walk 6 Miles

These estimates give a starting point. However, remember that your actual time will be affected by factors such as your fitness level and the type of terrain.

2. Terrain

The type of terrain you’re walking on matters. Walking on a flat, paved surface will be faster than navigating hilly or uneven terrain.

3. Fitness Level 

As you can see, your fitness level affects how fast and how long you can walk without getting tired.

People who have walked for a long time may be able to walk 6 miles faster than someone new to walking for exercise.

4. Weather Condition

The weather can change everything. If you walk against a strong wind or in extreme temperatures, it may make you slower.

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6 miles walking

Estimated Walking Times

Well, let’s look at estimated walking times for covering 6 miles. Of course, pace isn’t the only thing that will affect your walking time.

These times are just estimates, and your actual time may be different.

1. Brisk Pace (4.5 mph)

If you maintain a brisk pace of around 4.5 miles per hour, you could cover 6 miles in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

2. Moderate Pace (3.0 mph)

At a more moderate pace of 3 miles per hour, you might complete the 6-mile walk in about 2 hours.

3. Leisurely Stroll (2.0 mph)

For a leisurely stroll at 2 miles per hour, expect to spend around 3 hours covering the 6-mile distance.

Terrain and its Impact

Of course, you probably know that the type of terrain you’re walking on plays a significant role in determining your walking speed.

Here’s a handy chart to give you a rough idea

TerrainImpact on SpeedEstimated Time
Flat SurfaceMinimal2-3 hours
HillyModerate2.5-3.5 hours
MountainousSignificant3-4 hours

Consider the landscape you’ll be covering when estimating your walking time. Hills and uneven surfaces can slow you down, so plan accordingly.

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Calculating Walking Time for 6 Miles

Harvard states that walking is good for your joints, especially the knees and hips. It helps reduce arthritis pain and can even prevent arthritis if you walk about five to six miles a week.

When you walk, it makes your joints smoother and strengthens the muscles that support them.

Now, let’s break down how to calculate your walking time based on your preferred pace.

Step 1: Determine Your Walking Speed

Begin by understanding your walking speed. This is typically measured in miles per hour (mph).

Use a fitness tracker, or smartphone app, or time yourself to find out how quickly you walk a mile.

Step 2: Calculate Walking Time

Once you know your walking speed, calculating the time it takes to cover 6 miles is straightforward. Use the formula:

Walking Time (in minutes)= Walking Speed (in mph)Distance (in miles)​×60

For example, if your walking speed is 3 mph, the calculation would be:

Walking Time= 6/3 ×60=120 minutes or 2 hours

This is a basic calculation. It doesn’t consider things like terrain or breaks. You can make changes based on your situation.

Planning Your 6-Mile Walk

Plan your 6-mile walk before lacing up your shoes and hitting the pavement. This way, you’ll be sure to complete the distance and have a great time.

Choosing the Right Route

Choosing the best route is important for a good walking experience. Pick a path that is safe, beautiful, and fun.

Think about parks, nature trails, or even a pretty city route. A different view can make the walk more interesting and help the time go by quickly.

Personal Factors: Walking 6 Miles A Day

Your personal characteristics and preferences also affect how long it takes to walk 6 miles. Below I will show it in detail.

FactorImpact on SpeedAdjusted Time
Fitness LevelHigher fitness, faster pace+/- 15 mins
Rest BreaksFrequent breaks slow you down+/- 20 mins
Walking ExperienceExperienced walkers may be faster+/- 10 mins

Final Thoughts

The time it takes to walk 6 miles varies due to different factors. It is not only about speed. I hope this guide motivates you to walk 6 miles a day.

How Long To Walk 6 Miles

Most people walk at an average pace of 3 miles per hour. At this pace, it would take you 1.5 to 2 hours to walk 6 miles.

Matthew Solan
Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan is a professional coach who has guided 300+ individuals with a flexible Ketovore and Carnivore dieting approach.

Editor of The Allfit Well, he leads by example in achieving his fitness goals. His qualifications include a bachelor’s in biology, a master’s in education, and certifications in Fitness Nutrition and Training. His specially registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in Florida.

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