Conquering the Three Peaks Challenge

 The Highest Mountains in England, Scotland & Wales.

TOP 10 TIPS TO MAKE OR BREAK THE 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE

Thanks for signing up for this free report. After years of organising 3 Peaks Challenge events, these are the top 10 tips we could come up with for areas where challenges most commonly fail... 

1. Tackle Scafell Pike in the light: This is the easiest mountain of the three to get lost on with its boulder strewn top that lacks distinction in any direction. Be mindful of the direction you've come from as you reach the summit. Set your timetable to tackle this one in daylight! Start your first peak in the evening, so Scafell Pike, as the second peak, is attempted as the sun comes up. Groups often head up Scafell Pike in the evening, get lost and take all night to re-find their route down in darkness. If start your first mountain in the morning, make it early so you get Scafell Pike done before night. For detailed agenda recommendations, email: info@getoutdoorsuk.org

2. Use a non speed restricted vehicle: 15+ seater minibuses are restricted to 62mph. Using a 9 seater or smaller, means you can go faster on motorways, which makes a huge difference over the whole challenge.

3. “A-team” transitions: Have the engine running as you leap into the vehicle and zoom off! No messing; get in and go; sort your kit, change, etc as you travel; be ready when you arrive at the next mountain. You can lose valuable time, which really makes a difference. People often end up regretting transitioning slowly.

4. Fitness: No.1 area people fall down on. The challenge is physically harder than you expect. And there is no replacement for actually practicing on real mountains or similarly steep slopes like Pen-y-Fan (Brecon Beacons), Skiddaw (northern Lakes), etc. Even better, do one of the 3 Peaks separately as training. Email: info@getoutdoorsuk.org to join an individual peak trip.

5. Hire a mountain leader: Costs a little more, but can stop you getting lost and ruining your chances of completing the 3 Peaks. They look after you in an emergency and are experts at picking up exhausted, wet, emotional team spirit. Don’t underestimate the risks; there were 30 deaths on mountains in the Lake District in 2015.

Don't call it a dream, call it a plan!

6. Planning: Particularly if you're brave (or daft?) enough to ignore point 5; you must know the routes! Work out your driving time between each peak, where to park, how much time that leaves for mountains. Very easy to make fatal mistakes when tackling the 3 Peaks and scupper your chances. Many people get lost, especially in fog or heavy rain; not surprising if it is your first visit and you’re tackling them exhausted. People have even been known to climb the wrong mountain…

7. Use separate driver(s): Ideally 2 non-walkers. It is a long, exhausting trip! Do not try to drive and walk the 3 hills. It's dangerous for a driver not to be well rested between each driving leg - the biggest risk in of the whole challenge. Also means there is someone to look after and move your vehicle when needed; A big plus if you arrive at Pen-y-Pass to find a full car park.  

 

8. Do not rely totally on sugar/sweets: You must eat substantial meals whilst on the minibus (sandwiches, pasta, rice, etc). Otherwise you'll end up feeling sick and struggling with energy levels. Save the sugary snacks or a healthier option of fruit, nuts or cereal bars for the hills, where the key is to eat little and often. Always drink lots of water - not just sickly energy drinks!

 

10. Use GetOutdoors!

Don't call it a dream, call it a plan!