The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is one of Britain's most popular long-distance walks, taking in the summits of Pen-y-ghent (694m), Whernside (736m), and Ingleborough (723m) in a single circular route. The challenge target is to complete the full circuit within 12 hours.
An estimated 200,000 walkers attempt the route each year, drawn to this corner of the Yorkshire Dales National Park for its combination of dramatic landscapes, physical challenge, and personal achievement.
The Three Summits
Each peak presents its own distinct character and challenge.
Pen-y-ghent (694m / 2,277ft)
Pen-y-ghent, meaning "hill on the border" or "hill of the winds," is traditionally the first peak tackled on the clockwise route. The ascent via Brackenbottom Scar is relatively gentle until the final scramble onto the summit ridge, where hands-on scrambling is required on the southern approach. Its distinctive stepped profile comes from alternating layers of limestone and gritstone.
Whernside (736m / 2,415ft)
At 736m, Whernside is the highest of the three peaks and the highest point in North Yorkshire. The ascent follows the Settle-Carlisle railway line toward the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct before banking steeply onto the ridge. Often considered the easiest climb technically, it is taxing due to the long, steady distance. The summit is capped with gritstone over limestone.
Ingleborough (723m / 2,372ft)
Ingleborough features a massive flat-topped plateau with almost vertical summit slopes. Historically a Brigante hillfort site, the summit area is noted for its challenging navigation in poor visibility, which frequently leads walkers toward the wrong descent path. The landscape is defined by limestone karst geology.
Route Direction
Clockwise (Traditional)
The traditional route runs clockwise from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, tackling Pen-y-ghent first, then Whernside, and finishing with Ingleborough. This is the most well-waymarked direction.
Anti-Clockwise (Recommended by Many Guides)
There is a growing consensus among professional guides that an anti-clockwise direction offers tactical advantages. Starting from Ribblehead and moving toward Whernside first allows you to tackle the highest peak with fresh legs. This direction also ensures that the steepest sections, such as the southern face of Pen-y-ghent, are ascended rather than descended, which is significantly safer and easier on the knees.
Key Statistics
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Total distance | 38.6km to 40km (24-25 miles) |
| Total ascent | 1,585 to 1,600m (5,200-5,279ft) |
| Challenge target | 12 hours |
| Starting points | Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Ribblehead, Chapel-le-Dale |
Environmental Stewardship
The environmental impact of 200,000 visitors per year is substantial. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority established the "Three Peaks Project" in 2009 to address the degradation of peat bogs and sensitive upland habitats. It requires approximately £35 to repair every single metre of the path network.
Strategic path restoration, such as the new route opened in 2012 between Pen-y-ghent and High Birkwith, was specifically designed to bypass the severely damaged Black Dub bog.
The Three Peaks Code of Conduct
Please follow the code of conduct to help preserve this landscape:
- Pack out all litter - leave no trace
- Stay on designated stone-flagged paths
- Close all gates behind you
- Keep dogs on leads near livestock
- Respect the natural environment and other walkers