The National Three Peaks Challenge is a demanding endurance challenge in which participants attempt to climb the highest peaks of each of Great Britain's three countries, Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales. Often, but not necessarily, this is attempted within 24 hours.
Great Britain's National Three Peaks Challenge is not just a demanding physical challenge, it's a mental challenge as well and success requires careful planning and preparation. The challenge involves organisation, logistics, navigation, good driving skills, communication, training, team work and group catering. On top of that you need the right equipment, stamina, determination and a bit of good luck. If you are planning to do the Three Peaks Challenge this year please don't hesitate to give me a call.
The vital statistics of this mountain challenge are as follows:
Ben Nevis, near Fort William, Scotland - Height: 1,344m 4,409 feet
Scafell Pike, Western Lake District, Cumbria, England - Height: 978m 3,210 feet
Snowdon, North Wales - Height: 1,085m 3,560 feet
Road mileage: over 450 miles
Total ascent and descent: 2,900m 9,800 feet
Distance to be walked: Approx. 44 km 27 miles
To complete the challenge in under 24 hours is outstanding under today's road conditions, most teams will find completing within 24 hours a very demanding challenge, but of course they can be climbed over a longer period for a more relaxing adventure.
Having the mountain walkers involved with the driving on the day in a 24 hour challenge is a complete non-starter - challenge teams need good drivers / navigators to support the challenge and they are a very important part of the team.
Also, navigation issues should not be underestimated. Good weatherproof maps and a walker's compass, together with the knowledge of how to use them properly, are vital in tackling these mountains whatever the weather conditions. Safety and navigational accuracy is more important than just speed. This applies equally on the mountains and on the roads!
The best time of year to complete this challenge is mid summer, this will hopefully allow good weather and maximum daylight so as to ensure easy navigation throughout, however the challenge can be undertaken at any time of the year, by experienced and competent trekkers.
Sample Timings
1. Start the Challenge at Achintee Farm (Ben nevis inn) 0730
2. Summit Ben Nevis 1030
3. Return to Achintee Farm 1230
4. 0.45 min rest at Annadale services
5. Start Scafell Pike from Seathwaite 1900
6. Summit Scafell Pike 2130 (via corridor route)
7. Return Seathwaite 2359
8. Start Snowdon from P- Pass 0400
9. Summit Snowdon 0600
10 Finish Challenge 0730
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