Night walking and head torches
Some Three Peaks formats involve early starts, late finishes, or reduced visibility. The goal is simple: stay safe, keep pace steady, and avoid mistakes caused by fatigue.
Why this matters
- Visibility changes how confident you feel on uneven ground.
- Fatigue makes navigation errors more likely.
- Cold and wind feel worse when you stop moving.
Head torch checklist
- Comfortable head strap that does not slip.
- Good beam for foot placement (not just a narrow spotlight).
- Controls you can use with gloves.
- Weather resistance (rain happens).
What to practice before event day
- One evening walk using your head torch on varied terrain.
- Using the torch at a lower brightness to extend battery life.
- Layer changes: putting waterproofs on quickly without unpacking everything.
Walking as a group
- Keep spacing so you can see your feet and the person in front.
- Call out hazards (slippery steps, drops, loose rock).
- If someone stops, confirm the group is stopped (avoid gaps opening).
Batteries and backups
- Carry spare batteries or a fully charged backup light.
- Test your torch during training walks, not at the briefing.
- Cold reduces battery performance: keep spares in a pocket.
Next steps
Training and kit
Pair visibility preparation with pacing and waterproof checks.
