Whether covering 500 miles is a personal challenge, a pilgrimage, or just a pure adventure, this article will break down the numbers, provide practical insights, and help you plan your epic journey. So, how long does it take to walk 500 miles?
Considering an average walking speed of 3 miles per hour, it would take approximately 167 hours or a little over seven days of continuous walking to cover 500 miles.
But, let’s be realistic – seven days of non-stop walking is next to impossible. To make this trek manageable, you’ll need to establish a daily target or incorporate breaks along the way.
However, keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate. The actual duration could vary based on several crucial factors. These factors include your walking pace, the terrain you’re traversing, and the number of breaks you take.
Pro Tip: If you walk at a faster pace, such as 4 miles per hour, you’ll cut down your time significantly. You’d complete 500 miles in approximately 125 hours, which is about six days of non-stop walking.
But remember, this can be incredibly demanding and potentially dangerous without proper training, rest, and nourishment.
A well-trained walker can conquer 20-30 miles in a single day or even complete a marathon (26.2 miles) in less than eight hours. When contemplating a 500-mile journey, it’s far more practical to spread it across several days.
If you’re planning to take on the challenge over a few days, your daily distance should be reasonable, considering your fitness level and the terrain. Generally, aiming to cover 15 to 20 miles per day is a good benchmark. At this pace, it could take you anywhere from 25 to 34 days to complete the full 500 miles.
Walking long distances, especially over several days, requires careful planning. It’s crucial to take necessary precautions and listen to your body to avoid injury or exhaustion. Prioritize your safety and well-being throughout the journey.
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So, how far are 500 miles? 500 miles translates to approximately 805 kilometers.
Table of Content
How Long Does It Take To Cover 500 Miles? Plan Your Journey

Below is a table to give you a clearer idea of how many days, how many hours a day, and how many miles a day you need to walk to reach 500 miles:
Daily Walking Miles | Daily Walking Time (Speed 3 mph) | = Days to Cover 500 Miles |
2 Miles | 40 Minutes | 250 Days |
3 Miles | 1 Hour | 167 Days |
4 Miles | 1 Hour and 20 Minutes | 125 Days |
5 Miles | 1 Hour and 40 Minutes | 100 Days |
6 Miles | 2 Hour | 84 Days |
7 Miles | 2 Hours and 20 Minutes | 72 Days |
8 Miles | 2 Hours and 40 Minutes | 63 Days |
9 Miles | 3 Hours | 56 Days |
10 Miles | 3 Hours and 20 Minutes | 50 Days |
11 Miles | 3 Hours and 40 Minutes | 46 Days |
12 Miles | 4 Hours | 42 Days |
13 Miles | 4 Hours and 20 Minutes | 39 Days |
14 Miles | 4 Hours and 40 Minutes | 36 Days |
15 Miles | 5 Hours | 34 Days |
16 Miles | 5 Hours and 20 Minutes | 32 Days |
17 Miles | 5 Hours and 40 Minutes | 30 Days |
18 Miles | 6 hours | 28 Days |
19 Miles | 6 Hours and 20 Minutes | 27 Days |
20 Miles | 6 Hours and 40 Minutes | 25 Days |
Read More: How Long Does It Take To Walk 6 Miles? Tips To Get Best Results
Conclusion
In conclusion, the time it takes to walk 500 miles can vary significantly depending on a range of factors, including terrain, physical fitness, and weather conditions.
Walking 500 miles is an impressive feat that requires both physical stamina and mental strength.
Before embarking on such a journey, it’s essential to consult with a doctor and ensure you’re adequately prepared with the right gear, supplies, and training. Safety should always be your top priority.
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