The Three Peaks Challenge is an iconic walking challenge that involves climbing the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales within 24 hours, including travelling between them. Even that brief description shows that this is not something to be taken lightly!
The mountains are:
- Scafell Pike (England): 978m
- Snowdon (Wales): 1,085m
- Ben Nevis (Scotland): 1,345m
The numbers involved in this challenge can take some getting used to. The total ascent is 3,064m across 23 miles (37K), with a total of 462 miles driving involved, all to be completed within 24 hours! Not all entrants or tour companies insist on the 24 hour time limit but it is a traditional part of the challenge.
A big decision to make is which order to tackle the mountains in - while Scafell Pike will clearly be in the middle ascent, you can choose to start with either Ben Nevis or Snowdon. This will partly come down to whether you want to tackle the biggest climb (Ben Nevis) at the beginning or end of the challenge.
A popular misconception is that the Three Peaks Challenge involves the three highest mountains in the UK - instead, these are the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales respectively. There are plenty of mountains in Scotland taller than both Scafell Pike and Snowdon!
FAQs
Where can I find a UK Three Peaks Challenge?
Right here! We partner with tour companies and charity organisers who run guided Three Peaks Challenges, helping you to complete a personal goal while being supported with expert guides, travel and much more.
What is the national Three Peaks Challenge route?
While you can choose to take on the Three Peaks Challenge from the North or the South, we'd recommend the former. Start your challenge with the toughest climb (Ben Nevis), followed by the smallest mountain (Scafell Pike) and finally take on the final ascent (Snowdon).
