How Hard Is The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The Yorkshire Three Peaks is a serious hiking challenge - but it's more achievable than the National Three Peaks and makes an excellent first mountain challenge. Here's what to expect.
The Numbers
The challenge involves:
- 24 miles of continuous walking (38.6km)
- 1,585 metres of total ascent (5,200ft)
- Three peaks: Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough
- Traditional target time: under 12 hours
- All from a single start point at Horton-in-Ribblesdale
How Does It Compare?
| Challenge | Distance | Ascent | Time Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkshire Three Peaks | 24 miles | 1,585m | 12 hours |
| National Three Peaks | 23 miles | 3,064m | 24 hours |
| Surrey Three Peaks | 23 miles | 1,060m | 10-12 hours |
The Yorkshire Three Peaks has similar distance to the National but roughly half the ascent. This makes it significantly more manageable while still being a proper challenge.
What Makes It Challenging?
The Distance
Twenty-four miles is a long way to walk in a single day. Most people don't regularly walk more than 10 miles, so the distance alone is demanding. See our route guide for a detailed breakdown of each section.
Continuous Effort
Unlike the National Three Peaks, there's no driving between peaks. You walk the entire route without extended rest. This tests endurance in a different way - there's no recovery time.
Underfoot Conditions
The Yorkshire Dales terrain varies from well-maintained paths to boggy moorland, rocky sections, and uneven ground. Wet weather makes some sections slippery and slow. Check our kit list for suitable footwear recommendations.
The Clock
The traditional 12-hour target adds time pressure. Walking at 2mph average (including breaks) for 12 hours is tiring, and there's limited margin for delays.
Weather Exposure
All three peaks are exposed to wind and weather. Conditions can change quickly, and there's limited shelter on the tops.
Fitness Level Required
The Yorkshire Three Peaks is accessible to anyone with reasonable fitness who prepares properly. You should be able to:
- Walk 12-15 miles on hilly terrain comfortably
- Keep walking for 8+ hours in a day
- Handle rough ground and some scrambling
- Recover from sustained exercise
If you're a regular walker who occasionally does longer days, you'll find this achievable with 6-8 weeks of specific preparation. If you're starting from scratch, allow 3-4 months to build your fitness. See our training guide for detailed advice.
Typical Completion Times
| Fitness Level | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Fast walkers / fell runners | 6-8 hours |
| Fit, experienced walkers | 9-10 hours |
| Average fitness with preparation | 10-12 hours |
| Slower pace / less prepared | 12-14 hours |
Most guided event participants complete in 9-11 hours.
The Three Peaks in Order
Pen-y-Ghent (694m)
First peak. Steep climb from the start but relatively short. The rocky scramble near the summit catches some people off guard.
Whernside (736m)
The highest and longest climb. A gradual slog rather than a steep ascent. Views across the Ribblehead Viaduct reward the effort.
Ingleborough (723m)
Final peak. Legs are tired by now, and the climb feels harder than it should. Flat summit plateau with excellent views on clear days.
Is It Easier Than The National Three Peaks?
Yes, significantly. The Yorkshire Three Peaks is:
- Less ascent: Half the climbing (1,585m vs 3,064m)
- No night walking: Complete in daylight if you start early enough
- No driving: No logistics beyond getting to the start
- Shorter overall: 12 hours vs 24 hours
Many people use the Yorkshire Three Peaks as preparation for the National Three Peaks - it's an ideal stepping stone.
What If I Can't Do 12 Hours?
The 12-hour target is traditional, not mandatory. Completing the route is an achievement regardless of time. Many walkers take 13-14 hours and consider it a success.
For guided events, we set a sustainable pace aimed at completing in 10-11 hours. This allows for rest breaks and reduces the pressure.
Can I Do It?
Answer these questions honestly:
- Can you walk 10+ miles in a day without difficulty?
- Are you prepared to train for 6-8 weeks?
- Can you handle being tired and uncomfortable?
- Do you have suitable walking boots and gear?
If yes, you can do the Yorkshire Three Peaks. It will challenge you, but that's the point.
Useful Resources
Ready to Take It On?
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