The Three Peaks Challenge – Top Tips

Climbing the 3 highest Peaks in Britain in 24 hours with the Three Peaks Challenge

The challenge involves climbing the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales. Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, Snowdon. Just to be clear, there are more than 100 peaks in Scotland higher than Scafell Pike in England. So these are the three highest in their respective countries.

This is definitely not an easy challenge and one that is splitting the climbing and eco communities. Before you think about taking on this task I urge you to read a post some material on the cost on the environment.

To help you out and give you a taste of what you need to complete each mountain below are some tips you may want to digest.

When to Go

These climbs usually run from May to October with the height of the summer being extremely busy.

Plan your route

Not the route that takes you up the mountains but making sure you know the best route to each location. Get the correct postcodes for the starting point. This way you get the best possible start and don’t lose time on those that are easily avoided. Make sure you also plan your timings to as close as you can so that you know which mountain you will climb at night. The most important thing is to minimise the risk in all cases.

Don’t Drive Yourself

Do you feel tired after a climb? Imagine if you were pushing yourself and then had to get into a vehicle and then make a 4-5 plus hour trip before climbing the next peak. Having two designated drivers will allow you to get some well-earned rest and eat so that you get plenty of energy stored between the peaks.

Prepare for Changeable Weather! What Kit do you need?

Make sure you have plenty of layers so that you can stay warm especially when starting off and remove layers as you build up steam walking up and down the mountains. Climbing mountains always will always come with the risk of bad weather rolling in at any minute. One moment it is clear and sunny and within a few minutes there is freezing fog or heavy rain and you cannot see a thing. Be prepared, make sure all your valuables and maps are waterproofed and you have the clothing to keep you warm and dry.

This also includes a good pair of ankle high walking boots. Tough and waterproof but above all else comfortable. Break in you walking boots with a good deal of climbing first before the challenge of the three peaks as getting blisters or sore feet at the beginning of the journey will make the rest of the climbs unbearable. Walking trousers, windproof/waterproof jackets and thermals are also recommended. Spare socks and survival blanket just in case.

 What should go in your Backpack

A map of the mountain you are on is a good idea, also to make sure it is in a waterproof case. Gloves and a spare pair if you can, with a good hat as the wind can be biting at times. A first aid kit is always essential on trips such as this with blister plasters just in case.

Head torches plus extra batteries are also recommended as part of the challenge will be at night as to is a whistle.

All this kit should be in a backpack with a good waterproof cover. GPS is optional but always take a mobile phone.

Spare dry clothes, extra food and sleeping bags/blankets can be left in the vehicle for extra comfort.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the conditions on the mountains before hand. You can check the weather in advance using the Met Office’s Mountain Weather Forcast Site.

Your Body needs Fuel and Hydration

Plenty of high-calorie snack and food high in carbohydrates are good to eat. You should also prepare by eating plenty of carbohydrates in the days before as you would with running a marathon. There are loads of good trekking bars but fruit, nuts, pasta, potatoes and cereal bars are also good.

It sounds like just common sense but drinking plenty of water before, during and after each peak. It will keep you hydrated and with that comes a sharper mind. Drinking bladders like a Camelbak and those like it are great for carrying a few litres of water at a time.

Take your time

Even though you are trying to summit the three highest peaks in Britain all in 24 hours, it’s not a race. Nobody is going to thank you for rushing and making mistakes that could lead to disaster. Remember that safety is the key at all time and if you feel that it is unsafe for you to carry on it’s best to turn back. Let the slowest in the group set the pace, that means that everyone stays together and the faster walkers conserve much-needed energy.

Practice

We recommend breaking in your walking boots. The best way is to get climbing one or two of the mountains singularly. This way you can get acquainted with the terrain and the routes. Have a training plan and make sure that all of your co-walkers are up to the challenge.

 

If you are interested in doing the Three Peaks Challenge get more information at the Three Peaks Challenge website

or by going to the Three Peaks Challenge page at Adventurous Ewe 

If you feel that we have missed anything out or have anything wrong please comment below or give us feedback on our Contact Us page

 

I-MustDo