the yorkshire 3 peaks challenge
A 39.2km (24.5-mile) guided circular walk over the three highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales — Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough — completed within 12 hours, led by a Mountain Training qualified leader.
the yorkshire 3 peaks challenge
A 39.2km (24.5-mile) guided circular walk over the three highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales — Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough — completed within 12 hours, led by a Mountain Training qualified leader.
Qualified Leader
over
walkers guided since 2021
Charity partnerships
4.9/5 average rating
finishers medal included
Three summits.
One circular route.
The Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge is a 39.2km (24.5-mile) circular walk taking in the three best-known peaks in the Yorkshire Dales — Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough — with around 1,600m of total ascent. Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty, it is one of the most rewarding one-day challenges in the country, and a spectacular, memorable walk in any weather.
The full route is shown on Ordnance Survey Explorer map OL2 and can be started from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Chapel-le-Dale or Ribblehead. Each peak can also be walked individually as a practice walk — a great way to build stamina before the full Challenge.
Pen-y-Ghent
694m
The smallest of the three peaks, its name means “hill on the border” or “hill of the winds”. A steep, rocky ascent with sweeping views across the Dales makes for an interesting and exposed start.
Whernside
736m
The highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, with views over Morecambe Bay and the Irish Sea. A more gradual climb than the other two, rewarding walkers with stunning scenery the whole way up.
Ingleborough
723m
One of the most popular and dramatic of the peaks, with a steep side and a flat summit that once held a defensive wall built by the Brigantes against the Romans. A sharp ascent gives way to breath-taking views and a gentle descent into Horton-in-Ribblesdale.
Distance | 39.2km / 24.5 miles |
Total ascent | ~1,600m |
Target time | Within 12 hours |
Average pace | ~3.5 km/hr incl. breaks |
Start points | Horton-in-Ribblesdale (BD24 0HE), Chapel-le-Dale (LA6 3AR) or Ribblehead (LA6 3AS) |
Map | OS Explorer OL2 |
Make no mistake — this is a genuine test of endurance.
But it doesn’t matter how long it takes. It’s a real chance to challenge yourself and create a day of memories with friends that will be talked about for years.
24.5 miles
total distance
1,600 m
total ascent
12 hours
target time
Why Take On the Challenge With Us
Your safety and experience are our first priority. Every walk is led by a fully qualified, experienced Mountain Leader with years of guiding in the Yorkshire Dales — not a volunteer or a first-timer.
- Mountain Training ML Award
- Wilderness First Aid
- MTA Member
- 10+ years leading in the Yorkshire Dales
Individuals & Small Groups
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or tackling your first big challenge, we set you up for success with full kit guidance and training support.
Corporate Team Events
Private group bookings, flexible dates, and a debrief format that translates to the workplace. A challenge that bonds teams. Request a group quote.
Corporate Team Events
We partner with UK charities and can support your JustGiving page, fundraising targets, and provide charity-specific materials.
We know that you will get so much from going on an adventure with us.
But don’t just take our word for it, see what your fellow walkers have to say …
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge - Your Questions Answered
The three peaks are Pen-y-Ghent (694m), Whernside (736m) and Ingleborough (723m), all in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
The route is 39.2km (24.5 miles) with around 1,600m of total ascent.
The traditional target is to complete the Challenge within 12 hours, walking at an average of about 3.5 km/hr including short breaks and a lunch stop.
It’s a genuine endurance challenge, but achievable for most reasonably fit walkers with some preparation. Because our walks are fully led and supported and welcome all abilities, beginners are well looked after — and each peak can be walked individually as a practice walk first.
You can start from Horton-in-Ribblesdale (BD24 0HE), Chapel-le-Dale (LA6 3AR) or Ribblehead (LA6 3AS). We’ll confirm your meeting point when you book.
A guide isn’t compulsory, but a led walk means you have a Mountain Training qualified leader handling navigation, pace and safety in changeable mountain weather — which makes the day safer and lets you focus on the achievement.
- 1 – 10 @ £80 per person
- 11 – 20 @ £75 per person
- 21+ @ £70 per person
Please book large parties (15+) in advance (3 months).
See our booking page for available dates