Elevation Profile Analyzer
Paste ascent/descent waypoints and get a feel-rating plus suggested rest stops.
Inputs
Result
A natural placement between the calculator and the explanation.
What this solves — and what it doesn't
Two routes with the same total elevation gain can feel very different: a single 1,500 m climb feels tougher than three 500 m climbs separated by flat. This analyzer distills that into a fatigue index using climb ratio (m gain per km), number of distinct climbs, peak segment steepness, and altitude.
The output includes a suggested number of short rest stops — important for trip leaders who need to plan where a slower member of the party can catch up.
How to read the result
The fatigue index is a 0 to 60ish scale. Cruisy (<12) is a casual day; Solid day (12 to 22) is a meaningful workout; Beast (22 to 35) is a long, draining day; Brutal (>35) requires experience and good conditions.
Rest-stop suggestions assume 5 to 10 minutes per stop at obvious scenic or water-source points. If a group includes children or novices, double them.
Limitations
- No micro-pauses. Real fatigue is also built from dozens of small stumbles or stops for navigation; we only model big climbs.
- Doesn’t model weather. Wet, slippery ground makes climbs much harder.
- Surface not included. A 28% climb on stairs vs. scree is different; you know your surface, we don’t.
Frequently asked questions
Why is just total elevation not enough?
Because climb ratio captures the shape of the profile, not just its size. A 1,000 m climb packed into 5 km feels completely different from 1,000 m spread over 25 km.
How do I plan rest stops without GPS waypoints?
Use obvious features: a creek crossing, a saddle, a viewpoint, a junction. Most groups naturally pause at these places.
How does downhill affect fatigue?
Downhill beats knees more than uphill beats lungs. Add 15 to 25% to the fatigue index mentally if your route is dominated by descents over ~20% grade.