The distance from Mount Horeb in the southern Sinai Peninsula to Kadesh-barnea in the north is only 241 kilometers (150 miles) (see study note on 1:19). The large Hebrew population could have easily traveled this distance in eleven days if they had traveled directly. Yet, their rebellion against the Lord caused a 38-year delay and a circular route (see 2:14; Numbers 14:34).
Horeb (or Sinai): Deuteronomy uses this name for the holy mountain where God gave the covenant. The name likely has a connection to a word meaning "drought" or "devastation." This suggests the harsh conditions the people of Israel encountered.
The way of Mount Seir was the route from Mount Horeb to Mount Seir. Seir is another name for Edom. It was east-southeast of the Dead Sea. The usual route took travelers through the Arabah north from the Gulf of Aqaba and then west to Kadesh-barnea. This is 97 kilometers (60 miles) southwest of the Dead Sea.