The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is set in the glorious scenery of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, which is an area packed with outstanding natural beauty and scientific interest. So, are you considering conquering the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge? You can use this handy article to prepare for it.
Fancy challenging yourself and embracing the outdoors? The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a rewarding experience and an unforgettable adventure, but like its name states, it is a challenge! With stunning valleys and spectacular rolling hills. Set in one of England’s most picturesque national parks, you can use this article to find more information about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and prepare to accomplish it.
What is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a popular route and classic trekking challenge that climbs three significant peaks in the Yorkshire Dales. It is a 24-mile (38.6km) circular route that climbs three significant peaks in the Yorkshire Dales. The peaks are usually climbed in the following order Pen-y-ghent (694 metres), Whernside (736 metres), and Ingleborough (723 metres). They are part of the Pennine range that encircles the head of the valley of the River Ribble.
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The Yorkshire Three Peaks walking route
The Yorkshire Three Peaks are sat in a triangle; between them are two minor B roads and the River Ribble. You can begin the route at Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Ribblehead or Chapel le Dale. The trail is circular and will finish at the same point you begin.
Postcodes for the starting points:
You can choose to walk in either direction (clockwise or anti-clockwise) from three possible start points.
- Chapel le Dale, LA6 3AR (Limited free parking here)
- Horton-in-Ribblesdale, BD24 0HE (Plenty of paid parking)
- Ribblehead, LA6 3AS (Limited free parking)
You can find a full breakdown of the route here.
Ordnance Survey Explorer OL2 is the map required for the complete route. You can purchase the map here.
How can I take part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
If you want to participate in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, you can arrange a self-organised group or a professionally organised event. Although the cheaper option is a self-organised group, consider a professionally organised group for assistance with professional guides.
Professionally organised events
Three Peaks Challenge run many events between April and October each year where you can also participate in the event to raise money for a chosen charity. The group size is around 10 per group, each with a mountain leader. You can sign up as an individual or in a group. You can filter between the groups to suit your pace. It’s an early start if you want to be involved; they begin at Chapel le Dale at 6 am and take the circular route anti-clockwise. You will have a mountain leader to guide you, a safety support vehicle nearby, two top-up water points and receive a certificate on completion.
You can find dates, prices, and a full challenge itinerary here.
Self-organised Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
You can organise to walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge by yourself; having a group of between four and fifty walkers is recommended. You can register your challenge, which means you can record your challenge online; this is ideal if you are fundraising for a charity. Certificates of completion are included when you register, and it costs £6 per person.
Register your self-organised Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge here.
Advice for a self-organised challenge:
- Consider a support car as a safe way for group members to retire from the walk midway.
- Take the appropriate kit; you can find a breakdown of items to take further into this article.
- Consider a training plan for your group to ensure everyone is at a suitable fitness level when participating.
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge FAQS
1. How long does it take to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
2. Do you have to be physically fit to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
3. Can you complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks at any time of the year?
4. Which is the most challenging peak to climb?
5. What will I need to take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
6. Is there a minimum age to take part in the Yorkshire Peaks Challenge?
1. How long does it take to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The aim is to reach the summits of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough in less than 12 hours. You can find a breakdown of finish times and estimated checkpoints here to give you an idea of the pace you would need to go. However, no matter how long it takes, completing this challenge is an outstanding achievement.
2. Do you have to be physically fit to complete this challenge?
The simple answer to this is yes!
This route is demanding both physically and mentally. The route is just over 24 miles and has an ascent of 1,500m, which is very difficult. Consider it like this; you will be walking nearly a marathon in distance and climbing higher than Ben Nevis. Then add that this must be completed in under 12 hours, so expect a very tough and tiring day. It is vital to have a good level of endurance fitness and not have to stop often when walking uphill.
Training
Experience hiking mountains is essential, and we recommend using the Yorkshire Three Peaks training plan to train appropriately. The Yorkshire Three Peaks suggest testing your fitness in the mountains and aiming to walk up and down Snowdon in 4 hours, an average speed of about 3km per hour, or 20 minutes per km.
Even the fittest, most experienced walkers find this difficult, and the dropout rates are very high, so prepare accordingly and don’t underestimate this challenge. Remember, the hills involved in the Yorkshire Three Peaks can be walked as singular practice walks, a great way to improve stamina and strength and understand what you are letting yourself in for.
3. Can you complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks at any time of the year?
You can complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge any day during the year. However, the open nature of the countryside can bring cold and windy conditions, especially during the Autumn and Winter months. When choosing a date to complete the challenge, consider the amount of daylight; this is crucial when planning your estimated finish time. Those wishing for a sunnier challenge should plan their trip between April and September. With longer daylight hours available in these summertime months.
4. Which is the most challenging peak to climb?
This depends on your own experience. Opinions vary; many say Ingleborough is the most difficult, but this may be because it is the last peak and tired legs amplify its difficulty. Whernside is often said to be the easiest of the three, even though climbing takes the longest.
5. What will I need to take with me when completing this challenge?
Comfortable and suitable shoes are essential. You will also need to take a map and a compass. Always take warm clothes with you even in Summer and remember that the weather can drastically change at the top of the peaks. Taking a first aid kit with you is always a great idea. Depending on the light and time of year you are planning your trip, you may need to take a headtorch. Finally, choose a suitable and comfortable backpack to carry everything.
Food and drink
Most professionals recommend taking at least 3 litres of water with you and considering the weather conditions; you will require more fluids on sweltering days. In addition, we suggest taking as much food as you can carry with you comfortably. Compact high-energy food is ideal.
6. Is there a minimum age to take part in the Yorkshire Peaks Challenge?
The Three Peaks Challenge events can accommodate participants 12 years of age and over. Still, they must have a suitable fitness level, and a parent or guardian must accompany any under 18’s. Make sure to let them know the age of the participants before booking.
Proper preparation allows you to summit all three mountains in under 12 hours. We hope this breakdown of information about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge has been helpful and enabled you to prepare for your adventure. Remember to take in the scenery and enjoy yourself. Good luck!
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