What this calculator does
Fitness trackers count steps, but training plans and race distances are usually set in miles. This calculator converts directly between the two: steps to miles, or miles to the steps needed to cover that distance, using your average stride length rather than a single fixed figure that will not fit everyone.
Stride length varies with height, walking speed and stride style, so the default of 2.5 feet is only a starting point. For a more accurate conversion, measure your own stride: walk 10 steps at a normal pace, measure the distance covered, and divide by 10.
The formula
Distance in miles = steps × stride length ÷ 63,360, since there are 63,360 inches, or 5,280 feet, in a mile. Steps needed = miles × 5,280 ÷ stride length in feet, the same relationship rearranged.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stride length | The distance covered by one step, from where one foot lands to where the same foot lands next. |
| Steps per mile | How many steps it takes to cover one mile at the given stride length, the inverse of stride length scaled to a mile. |
The inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Convert | Choose from Steps to miles, Miles to steps. |
| Step count (if converting steps to miles) | The number of steps recorded, if converting steps to a distance. |
| Distance (if converting miles to steps) (miles) | The target distance in miles, if converting a distance to a step count. |
| Average stride length (feet) | Your average stride length. Measure 10 steps and divide the distance by 10 for a figure specific to you. |
When to use it
How many steps in 3 miles
Set the mode to distance-to-steps and enter 3 miles: at a 2.5-foot stride that comes to 6,336 steps, though your own stride length will shift that figure up or down.
Checking a daily step goal against distance
A tracker showing a step count for the day can be converted to miles to see it against a distance-based target, such as a training plan set in miles rather than steps.
Planning a walk or run of a set distance
Working out the steps needed to cover 2 miles or 3 miles ahead of time gives a target to watch on a tracker during the walk itself.
Worked examples
Every figure in the tables below is produced by this page’s own calculator at build time, so the numbers and the tool always agree. Select any row to load that scenario.
How many miles do different step counts cover?
A range of step counts converted to distance at the default stride length.
Steps needed for common target distances
Steps required to cover a range of target distances in miles.
Questions
How many steps are in 3 miles?
At a typical 2.5-foot stride, 3 miles comes to about 6,336 steps. A longer or shorter stride than average will shift that figure, so entering your own measured stride gives a more accurate answer.
How many steps are in 2 miles?
At the same 2.5-foot stride, 2 miles is about 4,224 steps. Use the calculator with your own stride length for a figure specific to you.
How do I measure my own stride length?
Walk 10 steps at a normal, comfortable pace, measure the total distance covered, and divide by 10. Repeating this a couple of times and averaging gives a more reliable figure.
Does running change the stride length used here?
Yes, running strides are typically longer than walking strides. If converting steps from a run, use a stride length measured while running rather than the walking default.
For the same conversion in kilometres rather than miles, see the steps to km calculator.