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5 Spectacular Alternatives To The 3 Peaks Challenge

3 May 2021 No comments

Image source: Neil Mark Thomas/Unsplash

One of the most iconic walking challenges in the UK, the Three Peaks Challenge includes ascents of Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis. The fastest official time is 14 hours and 36 minutes set by Bob Wiseman in 2015. That record required a dedicated driver between peaks, a lot of planning, and months of training across Scotland's fells.

There are a plenty of alternatives to the National Three Peak Challenge that don't require anywhere near as much driving that are still challenging and a lot of fun.

THE LAKE DISTRICT 3000 FOOTERS

CUMBRIA

Scafell Pike

Image source: George Bannister/Unsplash

The Lake District has four mountains that stretch above 3,000 feet - Scafell, Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Skiddaw.

Climbing these peaks allows you to take in some of the best views the Lake District National Park has to offer. It takes about 16 hours including a short drive to complete the challenge after which you can retire to Keswick and a friendly B&B.

3 PEAKS

YORKSHIRE

Yorkshire Dales

Image source: Karl Moran/Unsplash

24-miles long with 5,200ft of ascent, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a beautiful route taking in Pen-Y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. The first documented completion of the route was in 1887 making it one of the oldest walking challenges in England. Its history is reflected in the popularity of walk with places filling up quickly for the various official race dates.

Depending on your level of fitness the route will take about 12 hours to walk after which you can return to the Pen-Y-Ghent Café for a well-deserved cup of tea and cake!

WELSH 3000 FOOTERS

SNOWDONIA

Snowdonia

Image source: Neil Mark Thomas/Unsplash

There are 15 mountains which top out at over 3000ft in Wales making for an extremely challenging route; especially for anyone who wishes to walk the route in under 24 hours.

A fast walking pace is essential with the first ascent, the highest peak in Wales, Snowdon. From there you progress along ridges overlooking Nant Peris, Glyder and on to Carnedd where you finish on the summit of Foel Fras.

A route for well-seasoned walkers and runners this is a true test of your stamina and mental toughness.

WHARFEDALE 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE

YORKSHIRE

Birks Fell

Image source: "Birks From Arnison Crack", by Mick Knapton, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Birks Fell, Buckden Pike and Great Whernside combine to make a 22 mile route starting and finishing in the Village of Kettlewell. As you travel from peak-to-peak you get great views of the Yorkshire Dales and Upper Wharfedale.

Running simultaneously to the Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge is a Two Peak Challenge (13.5 miles) and Valley Walk (4.5 miles). So whether you are an out-and-out fell runner, recreational walker or fancy an afternoon stroll, the Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge is a superb day out.

TREKFEST

BRECON BEACONS

Pen y Fan

Image source: Samuel Thompson/Unsplash

Each year thousands of walkers descend upon Brecon Beacons for the annual Trekfest charity walk. The day brings together young and old walkers for an array of hikes ranging from 100km to 25km.

Numerous routes take in, Pen y Fan, Corn Du and Fan y Big, some of the highest peaks in the Beacon national Park. As well as ascending some magnificent peaks there is a variety a terrain including forests, farmland and trails.

As an organised walk there are plenty of official water stops, support stations and directions in case you get lost. Once you have completed a route there is a BBQ and licensed bar to help celebrate finishing the walk.

About the Author:

Pete Fletcher - Outdoor Expert

Pete grew up hiking most of the trails in the Lake District before being introduced to skiing. A decade later and you're most likely to find him snowboarding, skateboarding or making a mean coffee.