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Three Peaks challenge

The most popular UK mountain challenge

Ben Nevis 1,343 m (4,406 feet)

You'll climb 1,300 metres (4,265 feet) and walk about 17 kilometres (10.6 miles)

Scafell Pike 978 metres ( 3,210 feet )

You'll climb about 900 metres (2,953 feet) and walk about 8 kilometres (5 miles)

Snowdon / Yr Wyddfa 1,085 metres (3,560ft)

You'll climb 726 metres (2,382 feet) andl walk about 11km (7 miles)

This challenge is probably the UK's most popular mountain walking challenge. It involves challenging walking, prolonged physical discomfort and sleep deprivation but will provide some amazing memories that will last you a lifetime!

You need to be reasonably fit to successfully complete this challenge within 24 hours but you don't need to be superhuman. With adequate preparation and training combined with the skills and experience of our guides most reasonably fit participants can successfully complete the challenge.



We can provide full organisation and logistical support for your challenge or provide a tailored package to suit your group.

When to do it

The most popular time for attempting the 3 peaks challenge is in June and July because the days are longer. We offer the challenge throughout the whole year.

Driving and Minibuses

Attempting the three peaks challenge involves driving long distances between Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon. For maximum safety we provide dedicated drivers for the event. It is not possible to do the challenge in a minibus, legally, with only one driver! Minibus legislation and driver's hours rules are complex. When obtaining quotes for your event don't be afraid to ask searching questions about the transport arrangements. We are happy to provide any information regarding any safety issue for your challenge event.

Environment issues surrounding the 3 peaks challenge

Unfortunately a small minority have brought this particular challenge into disrepute in some quarters. Because of it's popularity this event has attracted some negative publicity, mainly because of the sheer number of people converging on small rural communities and the erosion caused to the fragile mountain environment. We are sensitive to these issues and operate our events to minimise the impact on the environment and disturbance of local communities. Bigwalks Mountain Adventures and most other reputable providers promote a responsible and considerate approach to the national 3 peaks challenge, as with all our activities.

We abide by the Code of Practice for the 3 peaks challenge which is a completely voluntary code. Part of this code stipulates that participants must spend a minimum of 5 hours driving time between the various mountains, making a total driving period of 10 hours within the 24. This is to promote responsible driving within the law and prevent dangerous, high speed dashes to try to make up time on the road that's been lost on the hill. Allowing for the driving time, that leaves 14 hours to climb the three peaks. As we have no control over road or traffic conditions we credit our clients with a successful challenge if they climb all 3 peaks in the 14 hours, even if the driving element takes the total time to slightly over the 24 hours.

We call this our 14 hour rule but it doesn't in any way diminish your achievement. After all the 3 peaks challenge is a mountain challenge not a rally event! We believe we were the first to adopt this approach but others are now following and we would encourage all challenge participants, guided or self supported, to do the same.

For further information, have a look at our Three Peaks Challenge FAQ page and Three Peaks Challenge Training page.

To book your 3 peaks challenge tel: 07584 177506 or 01228 573513

e-mail: enquiries@bigwalks.com