How Hard Is The National Three Peaks Challenge?
The National Three Peaks Challenge is one of Britain's toughest hiking challenges - but it's achievable for anyone with the right preparation. Here's an honest assessment of what you're taking on.
The Numbers
The challenge involves:
- 23 miles of mountain walking (37km)
- 3,064 metres of total ascent (10,052ft) - that's twice the ascent of the Yorkshire Three Peaks
- 462 miles of driving between peaks
- All within 24 hours
To put the ascent in perspective, you're climbing the equivalent of ascending from sea level to the summit of the Matterhorn.
Success Rates
Around 40% of participants complete the challenge within the traditional 24-hour target. The most common reasons for not finishing in time are:
- Underestimating the fitness required
- Moving too slowly on the first peak and losing time
- Poor weather conditions
- Inadequate nutrition and hydration
- Trying to do too much driving yourself
With a guided event, success rates are significantly higher because pacing, logistics and support are handled for you.
What Makes It Difficult?
The Ascent
With over 3,000 metres of climbing, your legs will be tested. Ben Nevis alone involves 1,345 metres of ascent from near sea level - more than most people climb in a single day hike.
The Time Pressure
The 24-hour window is tight. You'll need to maintain a steady pace on each mountain, with efficient transitions between peaks. There's little room for extended rest stops. See our timing guide for a detailed breakdown.
Scafell Pike at Night
Most itineraries tackle Scafell Pike in the early hours of the morning. Walking in darkness when you're already tired, possibly in poor weather, is mentally and physically demanding. Many find this the hardest section.
Sleep Deprivation
You'll likely be awake for 30+ hours by the time you finish. The combination of physical exertion and no sleep catches many people out on Snowdon.
Unpredictable Weather
British mountain weather can change rapidly. Rain, wind, low cloud and cold temperatures are possible even in summer. Conditions at the summit are very different from the car park.
Fitness Level Required
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but you do need a solid foundation of endurance fitness. As a benchmark, you should be able to:
- Walk 15+ miles in a day on hilly terrain without struggling
- Climb a mountain like Snowdon in around 4 hours and feel you could do more
- Run 10km comfortably (this indicates good cardiovascular fitness)
If you're starting from a low fitness base, allow 4-6 months of dedicated training. If you're already active and regularly walk or run, 8-12 weeks of specific preparation should be sufficient. See our training guide for detailed advice.
Guided vs Self-Organised: Does It Affect Difficulty?
Yes. A guided event removes the logistical challenges entirely:
Guided events provide:
- Professional mountain leaders who set the right pace
- Dedicated drivers (you can rest between peaks)
- Support crew with refreshments and encouragement
- All transport and logistics handled
- Experience of what works and what doesn't
Self-organised attempts require:
- Your own drivers who won't be walking (critical for safety)
- Navigation skills for each mountain
- Planning the route, timing and logistics yourself
- Managing your own nutrition and support
Most people find the challenge significantly more manageable with professional support. If you prefer to organise your own attempt, see our self-organised guidance.
How Does It Compare to Other Challenges?
| Challenge | Distance | Ascent | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Three Peaks | 23 miles | 3,064m | 24 hours |
| Yorkshire Three Peaks | 24 miles | 1,585m | 12 hours |
| Welsh Three Peaks | 17 miles | 2,334m | 24 hours |
| Surrey Three Peaks | 23 miles | 1,060m | 10-12 hours |
The National Three Peaks has nearly double the ascent of the Yorkshire challenge, making it considerably more demanding despite similar walking distances.
Can I Do It?
If you can answer yes to these questions, you're a good candidate:
- Are you willing to commit to a proper training programme?
- Can you handle being uncomfortable and tired?
- Do you have (or can you build) the endurance to walk all day?
- Are you prepared for challenging weather conditions?
The challenge is hard - that's the point. But thousands of people complete it every year, many of whom didn't consider themselves "mountain people" before they started training.