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Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge: Everything You Need to Know

Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge: Everything You Need to Know

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge (Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge) is perhaps Britain’s most iconic hillwalking challenge. Taking place in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the challenge involves walking up the Yorkshire Three Peaks (Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent) in less than 12 hours. In this guide, we’re going to tell you absolutely everything you need to know about doing the colossal Yorkshire Three Peaks route.

Walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks: The Complete Guide

Completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a great accomplishment and an unforgettable experience. Of course, to successfully complete the challenge, you’ll need to be prepared!

This guide is your one-stop shop when it comes to useful information about walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks route. Beck and I recently completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in 9 hours and 45 minutes.

From personally doing the challenge ourselves, we have all the insider tips and practical considerations for completing the route. Certainly, feel free to bookmark this page as your go-to Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge resource. After all, there are around 40 FAQs covered later in the guide, answering questions about everything and anything!

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Read about the best walks in the Yorkshire Dales

What Are the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

The Yorkshire Three Peaks (AKA the Three Peaks of Yorkshire) refer to three of the highest fells in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. These peaks include Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent. Below, we’ll break down some of the key things to know about these three fells.

  • Whernside: at 736 metres above sea level, this is the highest fell and highest overall point in the Yorkshire Dales.
  • Ingleborough: at 724 metres above sea level, Ingleborough is the second highest fell in the Dales.
  • Pen-y-ghent: despite having the most striking landform of all the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Pen-y-ghent is actually only the ninth highest fell in the Dales. The peak of Pen-y-ghent reaches 694 metres above sea level.

Where Are the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

The Yorkshire Three Peaks are located in the southwest part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. To help you get your bearings, please click on the image below to access an interactive map of the area on Google My Maps.

A map showing the location of the Yorkshire Three Peaks

What Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a famous hillwalking challenge that involves walking up Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent in a single day. Specifically, the challenge is completing the approx. 39.5km (24.5 miles) circular walk in under 12 hours.

Dan doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

How to Do the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

There are a few different ways to take part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Below, we’ll look at the three main options for getting involved in the challenge.

Dan doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

1. Join An Organised Yorkshire Three Peaks Event

It’s possible to do the Yorkshire Three Peaks route as part of an organised event. By doing the challenge this way, you’ll have considerable support along the route.

The assistance provided includes having a guided walk, a safety support vehicle in case of injury, water top-ups and you’ll also get a certificate of completion. Be aware, you’ll still need to pack your own food and accommodation isn’t included in the price.

These events are managed by the official Three Peaks Challenge organisation and can be booked directly on their website. The event usually runs once or twice a month between April and October and generally costs around £75 per person.

2. Self-Organise a Yorkshire Three Peaks Group

Another option is to self-organise your own group and register the challenge on the official Three Peaks Challenge website. By doing so, the group’s organiser will receive guidance and advice on how to best plan the event for the participants. This is a great option if you’re organising a charity event and have around 4–50 walkers. Each participant will receive a certificate of completion. Usually, registration costs £6 per person.

3. Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks Independently

Other than participating in an official event, it’s possible to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge independently. Personally, that’s what Beck and I did. Certainly, if you’re in reasonable condition and are an experienced walker, you should be fine to do the challenge independently.

Below, we’re going to tell you about our experience completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks route by ourselves. We’ll then cover all of the essential information and practical tips for doing the challenge independently.

Beck and Dan walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

Yorkshire Three Peaks Route: Details

Below, you’ll find the approximate trail specs for the Yorkshire Three Peaks route (AKA the Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk).

  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 39.5km (24.5 miles)
  • Time: 9–12 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 1,600m
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Trailhead: Ribblehead or Horton in Ribblesdale

Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Map

Using a map for the Yorkshire Three Peaks route is highly recommended. Especially when you’re tired, it’s useful to have trail navigation to help you stay on the correct route. Of course, there are many different map options. Please see a list of map options below and buy or download whichever option suits you best. Personally, Beck and I used this AllTrails map with great success.

A screenshot of the Yorkshire Three Peaks route.

Yorkshire Three Peaks App

Another trail navigation option is purchasing the official Yorkshire Three Peaks app on the App Store or Google Play. Currently, the app costs £2.49 and all proceeds go to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, which helps maintain the route. By all accounts, the app is very helpful and a worthwhile investment for the day.

Yorkshire Three Peaks: Our Experience & Photos

To help you suss out what to expect on the day, we’re going to tell you all about our experience smashing out the monster Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Our intention isn’t to describe the route in a step-by-step fashion. Rather, we hope to inspire you to follow in our footsteps by pointing out some highlights along the route and showing you some photos!

Please note, that we started the challenge in Ribblehead and completed the route in an anti-clockwise direction. This is reflected in the trail narrative below. To learn about other possible starting points and to find out everything else you need to know about doing the challenge, please read our comprehensive FAQs section.

Beck an Dan start the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

Ribblehead to ​​​​​​​Whernside

After parking in Ribblehead, we set off to do the challenge at 6:30am. Certainly, you’ll want to start early to give yourself a full day to complete the route. Beck and I had been waiting for some time for a nice day mid-week when we were both available to complete the challenge. And, that day finally arrived in early September 2023. Clear skies and tops of 27°C. Would it be a little too warm for Lancashire local Beck? Well, one way to find out!

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

With the sun rising, we picked up the path leading by the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, which is definitely one of the main attractions along the route. You’ll soon follow alongside the railway line, passing a waterfall called Force Gill and ascending towards Whernside – the first peak of the day.

Ribblehead Viaduct seend during the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Ribblehead Viaduct and Ingleborough in the background

Soon enough, the route starts to bend around a series of tarns called the Whernside Tarns. The climb then steepens, where you’ll enjoy views of the Lake District and the other two Yorkshire peaks on a clear day.

Eventually, you’ll reach the summit of Whernside – well done on reaching one of the three peaks! Overall, we didn’t find the climb up Whernside too tiring. So, at this stage of the walk, we still felt like we still had plenty in the tank. The excitement of the challenge ahead probably also motivated us and kept our energy levels high.

Dan approaches Whernside along the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Approaching Whernside

Anyway, it’s now time to head to Ingleborough – the second peak of the day!

Whernside to Ingleborough via the Old Hill Inn

With Ingleborough in clear sight, you’ll make your way down from Whernside, heading directly towards Chapel-le-Dale as well as the next peak. After descending a winding steep path, you’ll eventually join Philpin Lane, passing loads of sheep.

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Approaching Ingleborough

You’ll soon pass Philpin Farm Campsite, which is a great place to refill water, buy snacks and go to the toilet. At the end of Philpin Lane, you’ll turn left onto B6255. You’ll then pass The Old Hill Inn, which is an alternate place to buy food, drinks and use the toilet facilities. Please read Where to Eat, Drink and Go to the Toilet En-Route for more information.

You’ll then turn right onto a trail leading into the Southerscales Nature Reserve. This is a sensational area of limestone boulders. The trail weaves through these epic rock formations, before joining a boardwalk over boggy terrain. The eventual ascent up Ingleborough is the steepest and toughest climb of the entire route. In reality, the ascent is relatively short. But, the steep incline is your second climb of the day, so it’ll be hard!

Eventually, you’ll reach the vast flat expanse of Ingleborough. Make sure to wander over to the trig point and use the wind-sheltered seats to rest and refuel. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Yorkshire Dales. From Ingleborough, Pen-y-ghent looks far in the distance, which is a tad overwhelming. If anything, it’s a reminder that the challenge is far from over and that you’ll need to crack on with getting to the third and final peak of the day!

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Southerscales Nature Reserve

Ingleborough to Pen-y-ghent via Horton in Ribblesdale

After enjoying the views from Ingleborough, you’ll briefly re-trace your steps before joining a descending trail leading directly to Horton in Ribblesdale. Along this trail, you’ll explore the Ingleborough National Nature Reserve. This is another area rich in wondrous limestone formations. As you continue along the route, you’ll notice Pen-y-ghent becomes more and more prominent. Before ascending the third and final peak, you’ll walk through Horton in Ribbesdale.

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Approaching Horton in Ribblesdale

After walking through the small village, you’ll soon turn left onto the Pennine Way, which forms part of the Yorkshire Three Peaks route. Because it was a fairly warm day, Beck and I were happy to find some shade out the front of Broad Croft House to rest and eat lunch before the final ascent. We don’t necessarily recommend stopping here for lunch. We would have stopped somewhere in Horton in Ribblesdale, but given it was a Monday, nowhere was open.

Admittedly, climbing the third and final peak is a physically demanding task. The climb up Pen-y-ghent is fairly gradual with one particularly short steep section. With fatigue already set in, you’ll need some good old-fashioned determination to get yourself up to the summit. Slowly but surely, you’ll arrive at the third and final peak of the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

From Pen-y-ghent, you’ll enjoy sublime views of the Dales countryside. Of course, you’ll want to have a decent rest and refuel before completing the final section.

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Approaching Pen-y-ghent

Pen-y-ghent to Ribblehead

You’ll definitely experience a jubilant feeling reaching the third and final peak. Unfortunately, though, the challenge is far from over. From Pen-y-ghent, you’re still looking at 12km of walking to get back to Ribblehead to complete the challenge. After descending Pen-y-ghent, the trail flattens and meanders through the moorland terrain. For much of the remaining walk, you’ll follow signs directing you to High Birkwith.

Dan walks the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Walking away from Pen-y-ghent

Nearing the end of the route, the trail winds and weaves through farmland. Eventually, you’ll reach the dullest part of the walk, which is the tedious road walk back to Ribblehead. Certainly, the final 1.9km road walk along B6479 isn’t a highlight of the route. But, by completing this final section, you’ll arrive back in Ribblehead, completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Congratulations – this is a day you’ll always remember!

Of course, don’t forget to celebrate your achievement with a pint at The Station Inn in Ribblehead!

Dan at the Station Inn after completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
The Station Inn

Yorkshire Three Peaks: Other Essential Details

To help you prepare for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge (especially if you’re doing it independently), we’re going to cover all of the essential details below. Afterwards, in the huge FAQs section, we’ll cover all of the nitty-gritty specifics about logistics and planning your day.

Dan atop Ingleborough
Views from Ingleborough

Best Time to Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks

The best time to walk the ​​​​​​​three peaks in Yorkshire is during daylight savings time between April and October. During this time, the days are much longer. Undoubtedly, having the extra daylight hours is helpful for completing the challenge, which for some people, can take around 12 hours.

Daylight savings also coincide with late spring, summer and early autumn, when you’re more likely to encounter better weather.

Of course, mountain weather can be unpredictable. Before setting off on the challenge, check the Met Office Yorkshire Dales Mountain Weather and relevant Mountain Weather forecasts.

There’s no two ways about it – doing the challenge in nice weather conditions is a much more enjoyable and pleasant experience. So, try and time your walk with good weather.

Dan atop Ingleborough
Ingleborough trig point

Where to Eat, Drink and Go to the Toilet En-Route

There are three main places where you can fill up on water, buy food and use public toilets. We’ll review these places below.

  • Chapel-le-Dale: the Philpin Farm Campsite is one of the best places to fill up water during the challenge. Walkers are welcome to go inside to refill water for free. They also have vending machines where you can buy snacks. Also, there are toilets you can use. A little further along, you’ll pass The Old Hill Inn. At this pub, you can buy water and food. Paying customers can also use the toilets. Bear in mind, that the Philpin Farm Campsite tends to be more accessible and open than The Old Hill Inn.
  • Horton-in-Ribblesdale: you’ll find free public toilets at the National Park Authority Car Park. Sadly, the Pen-y-ghent Cafe is now closed. Back in the day, walkers started the challenge at the cafe, registering there. Thankfully, though, you can buy food and water at these two pubs – The Crown Hotel or the Golden Lion Hotel (if they’re open, of course). Paying customers can also use the restrooms at these pubs.
  • Ribblehead: usually, during summer, you’ll find food vans set up in the parking area opposite Ribblehead Viaduct. Otherwise, you can buy water and food at The Station Inn. Paying customers can also use the toilets in the pub.

Keep in mind, that if you do the challenge outside of the peak season, and during the week, many of these places will be closed.

A map showing toilets and supplies during the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route

How to Get to the Yorkshire Three Peaks

There are two main ways of getting to the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Of course, this all depends on where you start! But, generally speaking, you can either drive yourself there or get public transport.

The most convenient way to get there is to drive there yourself. You can drive yourself to any of the potential starting positions at Ribblehead, Horton-in-Ribblesdale or Chapel-le-Dale. Read Where Do You Park For the Yorkshire Three Peaks for specific details about exactly where to park, depending on where you start the challenge.

If you don’t have your own set of wheels, then we recommend hiring a car using DiscoverCars.com. You’ll find a wide variety of cars on Discover Cars for very reasonable prices. Also, the website is user-friendly and booking online is super easy. Have a look at car hire from Manchester.

Car Hire

DiscoverCars.com

If you don’t have your own car, you should hire one using Discover Cars. Personally, we use Discover Cars and highly recommend them for finding your ideal car hire at an affordable price. Booking online is super easy and the free cancellation policy is great.

To find out more about renting a car with Discover Cars, read our Discover Cars review and Discover Cars Insurance review.

Public Transport

It’s possible to use public transport to get to Ribblehead and Horton in Ribblesdale as both villages have a train station. We recommend using a combination of Google Maps, Northern Railway and Trainline to plan and book your journey.

Booking Trains

Trainline

Trainline is one of the best online platforms for booking trains. By using Trainline, you can easily find the best available prices and times for your journey. We always use Trainline to book our train journeys in the UK and in Europe.

Accommodation For the Yorkshire Three Peaks

If you’re travelling from afar or simply want to base yourself near the route for the challenge, you’ll need to find yourself some accommodation. Below, we’ve listed accommodation options that are literally located on the route. So, you could start the challenge from your accommodation without doing any extra walking. As you can see, there are limited accommodation options in Ribblehead and Chapel-le-dale en route.

Accommodation in Horton in Ribblesdale

Certainly, the most logical place to stay en route for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is in Horton in Ribblesdale. The village has some excellent accommodation options. Below, we’ve handpicked the best accommodation options in the village.

  • Ribblesdale Pods: these glamping pods are the most popular accommodation option in the village.
  • Broad Croft House: this is the most luxurious and perhaps best accommodation along the challenge’s route.
  • The Crown Hotel: if you’d prefer a pub stay, then look no further than The Crown Hotel.
  • Golden Lion Hotel: another decent pub option for accommodation.

Accommodation Nearby in Ingleton

Although there are some nice accommodation options in Horton in Ribblesdale, options are limited. Additionally, during peak times, you might find accommodation is booked out in advance. If you’re driving yourself to the Yorkshire Dales and there is no accommodation available en route, then staying in Ingleton is your next best option.

Ingleton is the biggest village near the Yorkshire Three Peaks with the most accommodation options. From Ingleton, it’s only an approx. 12 minute drive to get to Ribblehead. So, if you stay in Ingleton, you won’t have far to travel to do the challenge. Below, we’ll talk about the best budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options in Ingleton.

Budget – Ingleton Hostel

Inside Ingleton Hostel

The best budget option in the village is Ingleton Hostel. The hostel is also conveniently located near the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail!

Mid-range – Craven Heifer Ingleton

Inside Ingleton Hostel

Craven Heifer is an exquisite country pub and is one of the most affordable and highly-rated private room accommodation options in Ingleton.

Mid-range – The Wheatsheaf Inn

Inside The Wheatsheaf Inn

You’ll want to book The Wheatsheaf Inn if you want to stay at one of the most popular pubs in Ingleton.

Luxury – The Marton Arms

Inside The Marton Arms

The rustic country pub is located just outside of Ingleton. So, The Marton Arms is the perfect place to stay if you’re after something even more quiet and secluded.

Camping Along the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route

If camping is your accommodation of choice, you’ll be happy to hear there are a few decent options. Along the Yorkshire Three Peaks route, you’ll pass both Philpin Farm Campsite in Chapel-le-Dale and Holme Farm Campsite in Horton in Ribblesdale. So, you can start the challenge from either campsite.

Otherwise, Ingleton actually has some of the best and most modern campsites in the Yorkshire Dales. Some of the best Ingleton campsites include Meadow Falls, Thornbrook Barn and Stackstead Farm. So, you could camp in Ingleton, then drive over to Ribblehead to do the challenge.

Alternatively, you’ve got Ingleton Scenery Company’s Falls Park, which is a campsite located along the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. The highly-rated campsite is beautifully positioned as it’s overlooked by Ingleborough. At Falls Park, there are also sublime cabins, providing a more comfortable and luxurious accommodation experience.

Equipment: What to Wear and Take

These are our walking gear essentials for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. Of course, what you wear and pack will be dictated by the weather and the season you walk in. Even with a good forecast, you should still pack waterproofs as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Here’s a list of all of the most useful gear to have for the challenge.

  • Hiking Backpack
  • Waterproof Bag Cover
  • Hiking Boots and Hiking Socks
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Fleece Jacket and extra winter gear if necessary (down jacket, gloves, etc.)
  • Waterproof or Water-resistance Trousers
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Neck gaiter
  • SPF lip balm
  • Trekking poles
  • Plenty of food
  • 3–4L of water (hydration bladder preferable)
  • Phone (GPS-guided map)
  • Portable Charger/Power Bank
  • Camera/GoPro
  • Small medical kit
Dan during the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
The summit of Ingleborough

How to Look After the Yorkshire Three Peaks

To look after the Yorkshire Three Peaks, it’s important to respect the environment by leaving no trace. For more information about looking after this beautiful part of the UK, please read our FAQs below about respecting the environment, staying safe during the challenge and giving back to the local community.

Yorkshire Three Peaks Code of Conduct

If you’re unsure about the usual countryside code, please read and respect the Yorkshire Three Peaks Code of Conduct.

Walking One of the Yorkshire Three Peaks

Of course, each of the Yorkshire Three Peaks can be walked individually during standalone peak walks. Below, we’ll cover details about walking each of the peaks separately.

  • Whernside Walk: summit the highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales during a 13.4km (8.3 miles) circular walk from Ribblehead. During the Whernside Walk, we recommend walking to the base of Force Gill. Admittedly, during the challenge, you won’t want to do this as you’ll want to conserve your energy.
  • Ingleborough Walk: the most common route is from Clapham; but, it’s also possible to walk to Ingleborough from Ingleton and Chapel-le-Dale. Personally, Beck and I did the Ingleborough Walk from Clapham. Along the route, you’ll follow the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, pass Ingleborough Cave, walk through Trow Gill and pass near Gaping Gill.
  • Pen-y-ghent Walk: a fantastic 11km (6.8 mile) circular walk from Horton in Ribblesdale. During the Pen-y-ghent Walk, we highly recommend exploring Hull Pot. Again, we don’t recommend doing this during the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge as you’ll want to conserve your energy.

Read about the 48 best waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales

FAQs About Walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks

Below, you’ll find the most frequently asked questions about the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

Dan during the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge route
Approaching Ingleborough

Where Does the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Start?

The traditional Yorkshire Three Peaks starting point is at Horton in Ribblesdale. Alternatively, Ribblehead is another popular starting point. Chapel-le-Dale is a less common starting point.

Where Do You Park For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

  • Ribblehead: there is ample free parking here on Blea Moor Road opposite Ribblehead Viaduct.
  • Horton in Ribbledale: the pay and display National Park Authority Park Car Park is located here. There is limited free street-side parking here.
  • Chapel-le-Dale: there is limited free layby parking near the Old Hill Inn located here.

What Direction Should You Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

There is no officially recommended direction. Usually, the route is walked an in anti-clockwise direction.

What Order Do You Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route?

This depends on where you start and what direction you walk in. Essentially, there is no right or wrong order to walk the route.

How Far Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

The Yorkshire Three Peaks distance is roughly 39.5km (24.5 miles).

How Long Does it Take to Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

The Yorkshire Three Peaks average time taken to complete is 9–12 hours.

Can You Do the Yorkshire Three Peaks in a Day?

Yes, that’s what the challenge is all about – completing the route in a single day in less than 12 hours.

​​​​​​​Do You Need Permission to Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

No, the route uses public rights of way and open access land.

Do You Need to Register to Walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

No, you can walk it independently without registering.

How Much Does it Cost to Do the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

If you register for an organised event, it usually costs £75/person. Whereas, if you are registered in a self-organised group, registration usually costs £6/person.

Can You Do the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge On Your Own?

Yes, absolutely.

Which of the Yorkshire Three Peaks Is Hardest?

This is certainly a matter of opinion. Even though Whernside is the highest peak, it’s the easiest to manage as the climb is gradual. The steepest incline is ascending Ingleborough from its northern slope. So, perhaps Ingleborough is the hardest to climb. But, some people argue Pen-y-ghent is harder.

Which of the Yorkshire Three Peaks Is Highest?

  • Whernside: 736 metres
  • Ingleborough: 724 metres
  • Pen-y-ghent: 694 metres

How Hard Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

It’s hard, simply because the challenge requires covering a long distance (39.5km) within a time limit (12 hours). Of course, the elevation gain (approx. 1,600 metres) is also a challenging component.

Can You Run the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

Sure, if you want! Read more about the Three Peaks Race here.

Are the Yorkshire Three Peaks Mountains?

This is a matter of semantics. Technically, yes, all three peaks are mountains as they’re all over 600 metres above sea level. Although, the peaks are more commonly referred to as fells or hills.

Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Harder Than the National Three Peaks?

The National Three Peaks (Snowdon, Scafell and Ben Nevis) is harder physically and logistically. Although covering a similar distance, the National Three Peaks involves double the elevation gain. And, it goes without saying that climbing the highest peaks of three different countries, within 24 hours, is a bit harder to coordinate- and organise!

FAQs About Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Directions

Below, we’ll cover the most common questions about maps and trail navigation.

Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Directions

Do You Need a Map For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

Yes, it’s recommended to use a map to ensure you stay on the correct route.

What OS Map Covers the Yorkshire Three Peaks Area?

The Map of Yorkshire Dales Southern and Western Area.

Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Signposted?

Yes, the route is well signposted.

Where Can You Find Maps For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

We outline three map options in this section – Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Map. Additionally, you can download the Yorkshire Three Peaks app to have access to GPS-guided directions.

Where Can You Download GPX Files?

You can download a GPX file from this AllTrails map.

FAQs About What to Pack and Wear

Let’s look at specific questions about what to pack and wear during the challenge.

Dan on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge Route
Pen-y-ghent trig point during the Whernside Walk

How Much Water Should You Take?

You should take 3–4 litres of water.

What Food Should You Take?

You should pack highly nutritious and kilojoule-dense food that’s lightweight. For example, you should pack nuts, dried fruits, granola or muesli bars, flapjacks, bagels or wraps with peanut butter, etc.

What Footwear Should You Wear?

You should wear waterproof hiking boots.

What Clothes Should You Wear?

Dress appropriate for mountain weather – this should include waterproofs and layers.

FAQs About Staying Safe

Let’s look at some frequently asked questions about staying safe en route during the challenge.

Pen-y-ghent
Pen-y-ghent

How Do You Plan and Prepare For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

Doing some simple research about the challenge is the best way to plan for the day. In terms of preparation, you should pack and wear appropriate gear, download a map, check the weather forecast and be physically conditioned for the challenge.

How Fit Do You Need to Be For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

If you are reasonably fit and active, you should be able to complete the challenge. If this doesn’t sound like you, don’t worry, it’s possible to train for this event to condition your body to handle the rigours of the challenge.

How Much Training Should You Do For the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

The best training approach is to allow plenty of time to improve your conditioning (3–6 months) and gradually increase your walking volume week by week. You’ll find plenty of programs online to help you plan your training.

What Should I Do Before Starting the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

Download a map, charge your phone battery and check the weather forecast.

Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Dangerous?

No, generally speaking, the route isn’t dangerous. Of course, the route poses more risk during poor weather and visibility.

What Should You Do In An Emergency?

You should dial 999 and ask for the Police. Then, tell the Police operator you need Fell Rescue and give your details including an accurate location (usually a grid reference will suffice).

FAQs About Respecting the Environment

It’s important to care for the environment during the challenge. With limited facilities en route, many people have questions about how to best take care for the environment. We’ll answer these questions below.

Dan on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge Route
Views from Ingleborough

Are There Toilets En-Route?

Yes, please read Where to Eat, Drink and Go to the Toilet En-Route.

Are There Bins on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route?

No, take your rubbish home with you!

Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Route Dog-Friendly?

Yes, as long as you follow the countryside code.

How Can Erosion Be Prevented on the Route?

Please stick to the paths.

FAQs About Supporting the Local Community

It’s by no coincidence that the route is well-maintained. It takes a community effort to look after the Yorkshire Three Peaks, which sees plenty of visitors. If you want to give back to the local community or even get involved, read on.

The Three Peaks, Yorkshire Dales sign

How to Donate to the Yorkshire Three Peaks?

Click here to find out more about donating.

What Is the Three Peaks Project?

In April 2009, the Three Peaks Project was established to help with the conservation and management of the area.

What Are the Friends of the Three Peaks?

The Friends of the Three Peaks are a group of people who help to care for and maintain the route.

How to Become Corporate Friends of the Three Peaks?

Find out more about becoming a corporate Friend of the Three Peaks by clicking here.

Bonus Tips About Walking the Yorkshire Three Peaks

  • Wait for good weather: certainly, the challenge is much more enjoyable if completed in good weather conditions.
  • Start early: to give yourself enough time in the day, we recommend starting the challenge around sunrise.
  • Don’t worry about completing in 12 hours: whether you finish in under 12 hours or not, completing the route is a great accomplishment.
  • Spend your holidays in the Yorkshire Dales: there is plenty more to see in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Don’t just go to the Dales to do the challenge. Stay for the weekend or longer and see more of the national park’s attractions.

Please leave us a comment below.

Daniel Piggott

Dan is a travel blogger, physiotherapist, hiker, natural wonder seeker and world traveller. He loves writing travel guides to help his readers explore the most beautiful destinations in the world.

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