3 Peaks Challenge
Climb the highest mountains in Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike), and Wales (Snowdon) in one unforgettable adventure and take on one of the United Kingdom's most iconic endurance challenges.
The National Three Peaks Challenge is one of the UK's most famous mountain challenges, involving the ascent of the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales - Ben Nevis (1,345m), Scafell Pike (978m), and Snowdon / Yr Wyddfa (1,085m). Traditionally completed within 24 hours, the challenge combines mountain trekking, endurance, teamwork, and determination in a truly rewarding adventure.
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Our challenge begins in the Scottish Highlands before travelling south through England's Lake District and into the mountains of Wales. Over the course of the trip you'll experience three very different mountain environments, spectacular scenery, and the unique satisfaction of standing on the highest summit in each nation of Great Britain.
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The total challenge covers approximately 23 miles (37 km) of walking, 3,064 meters (10,052 feet) of ascent, and 462 miles of driving between the venues.
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Whether you're taking on the challenge as a personal goal, charity fundraiser, corporate team event, or simply for the adventure, the National Three Peaks Challenge offers an unforgettable test of endurance and resilience.
TRIP FACTS
WHY CHOOSE THE
3 PEAKS CHALLENGE
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One of the most direct routes to the summit
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A more challenging and physically demanding climb
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Quieter, less crowded trails
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Spectacular ridgeline views and dramatic scenery
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Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a true challenge
WHAT YOU WILL SEE & EXPERIENCE
The adventure begins in Fort William, where you'll prepare for an early morning ascent of Ben Nevis. After descending, you'll travel south to the Lake District to tackle Scafell Pike, often under the cover of darkness, before continuing to Wales to complete the final ascent of Snowdon. Throughout the challenge you'll experience three very different mountain environments, from the rugged Scottish Highlands and the dramatic fells of the Lake District to the spectacular landscapes of Snowdonia National Park.
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Over the challenge, participants will trek approximately 26 miles (42km) and ascend almost 3,000 metres in total. While the distances themselves are significant, the true challenge comes from completing them within a condensed timeframe while managing fatigue, limited sleep, changing weather conditions, and multiple mountain ascents.
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This challenge is traditionally attempted within a 24-hour period, with the clock starting when you begin the ascent of Ben Nevis and ending when you reach the summit of Snowdon. However, completion times can be affected by a variety of factors including group pace, weather conditions, road traffic, driver regulations, and overall safety considerations.
THE 3 PEAKS
Ben Nevis – Scotland
At 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. Located near Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, it offers spectacular mountain scenery and a challenging but rewarding ascent.
Scafell Pike – England
Standing at 978 metres, Scafell Pike is England's highest mountain and lies within the beautiful Lake District National Park. The route crosses rugged terrain and rewards climbers with stunning views across Cumbria's famous fells.
Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) – Wales
The final peak of the challenge is Snowdon, Wales' highest mountain at 1,085 metres. Situated within Snowdonia National Park, the mountain offers dramatic scenery and a memorable finish to the challenge.
Important Notice
The National Three Peaks Challenge is a serious endurance event. Participants should arrive with a good level of fitness and be prepared for long periods of activity with little or no sleep. Success requires not only physical fitness but also determination, resilience, and a positive team attitude.
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We do not guarantee completing this challenge in 24 hours. We believe that running the event in this manner is more responsible to the environments and local communities we pass through. The itinerary is there as a guide and may change due to unusual weather patterns, the strength of the group, or other unforeseen circumstances. We will do our very best to keep to the set itinerary, however we cannot be held responsible for any last minute changes that may occur. In all such circumstances though, your challenge leader will have the final say.
ITINERARY
The day begins at 10.30am as the group finally meets at Glasgow Airport. Following a warm welcome, we head off by road to Fort William in Scotland.
We will stop off in a local Scottish Highland town where you will have the opportunity to look around, before we check-in to our hotel in Fort William, right at the base of Ben Nevis.
We will conduct the challenge safety and then it will be time to turn in for the night ahead of tomorrow’s early start for our big adventure.
