The Three Peaks Challenge is perfect if you’re looking for a real test of your endurance and stamina. The challenge is this: reach the peaks of three of the highest mountains in England, Wales and Scotland, usually within 24 hours. Easy, right?
Why attempt The Three Peaks Challenge? Mountains are there to be conquered, and the sense of achievement you will feel after you have completed will be phenomenal. Many people also raise money for charity through completing The Three Peaks Challenge – which is a great idea.
Before you attempt the challenge, ensure you are at a satisfactory fitness level and are properly equipped; the Three Peaks are not to be underestimated and also be prepared with your accommodation as this is an extremely popular challenge and many of the local hotels do get booked up. Apopular hotel to stay at after your challenge is the Glan Aber Hotel in the heart of Snowdonia.
The First Peak – Ben Nevis, Fort William, Scotland. This is the highest of the three peaks at 1345 metres, and has one main track commonly known as The Pony Track or The Tourist Track. The 10.75 mile long track begins in Glen Nevis, accessed either from Glen Nevis Youth Hostel or Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. These two routes meet early on before reaching the halfway point at a Loch; Lochan Meall an t’Siudhe. The route then follows a zigzag pattern up to the peak.
The terrain is steep throughout, with the upper section rough and stony. Snow towards the peak is common therefore navigational skills are necessary to avoid losing the path and leading onto dangerous terrain. It will be a challenge – but the stunning views and tranquillity at the top make your descent completely worth it!
The Second Peak – Scafell Pike, Wasdale Head, England. This is the least high of the three peaks at 978 metres. Scafell Pike has many different routes, however most Three Peaks Challengers begin at Wasdale Head. This route is six miles long and begins at the Wasdale Head car park, heading sout-east along the footpath and heading over the footbridge which crossed Lingmell beck. The path leads south and joins up with the main path on Lingmell Gill. The path bears left uphill towards Brown Tongue before continuing towards the peak.
The terrain is rough, rugged and craggy throughout. Often during a Three Peaks Challenge the mountain is climbed during the night therefore a head torch is required. This means route finding may be difficult, especially in misty and dark conditions. Again this mountain is a challenge – but so worth is. It has been said that Scafell Pike holds views of breathtaking views of Wales, Scotland and the Isle of Mann from the peak!
The Third peak – Snowdon, Pen-y-Pass, Wales. This is the second highest of the three peaks at 1085 metres. Snowdon has many routes of varying difficulty however most Three Peaks Challengers begin at the Pyg track. This route is seven miles long and begins in the Pen-y-Pass car park and leaves from the higher area of the car park. It begins as a tarmac path and leads on to rocky steps towards the top. A large upright stone marks the join with the Miners track, and a second stone below the summit guides you towards the peak.
The Pyg track does involve the least amount of ascent, however it is still steep and rocky in places. The views of the peak of Snowdon are described as among the best as any route up, again completely worth it!