Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
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hikers
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
12:40
40.6km
1,420m
Hiking
Embark on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, a demanding hike that covers 25.2 miles (40.6 km) through the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. You will experience diverse terrain, from rough and boggy sections to well-maintained paths, as you tackle steep ascents on iconic peaks like Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough. The route offers panoramic views across the Ribble Valley, and from Whernside Summit on a clear day, you might even glimpse Morecambe Bay and the Irish Sea, with the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct below.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration for this difficult route, which typically takes around 12 hours and 39 minutes to complete. The challenge is very popular, so expect significant foot traffic, especially during peak seasons. The peaks are exposed to strong winds and changeable weather, so always prepare thoroughly for all conditions. You can find parking and public transport options in villages such as Horton-in-Ribblesdale, a common starting point for many hikers.
This iconic challenge is a serious undertaking, attracting hikers who seek a demanding yet incredibly rewarding experience in the heart of the Dales. The route is known for its unique combination of natural beauty and physical exertion, making it a standout adventure in the region. It's a true test of endurance and spirit, offering a deep connection to the rugged landscape and a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
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Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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4.26 km
Pen-y-Ghent
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
16.9 km
View of the Ribblehead Viaduct
Highlight • Monument
The viaduct is 1,312 foot (400 m) long with 24 arches spanning across Batty Moss. Built between 1870 and 1874, approximately 1,000 labourers worked on its construction.
Tip by
17.9 km
Blea Moor Signal Box
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
19.1 km
Force Gill Aqueduct
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
22.8 km
Whernside Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
32.9 km
Ingleborough summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
40.1 km
Horton-in-Ribblesdale Stone Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
40.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
14.6 km
10.2 km
9.89 km
3.86 km
2.01 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
15.7 km
11.3 km
4.44 km
4.24 km
3.86 km
869 m
289 m
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Elevation
Highest point (710 m)
Lowest point (230 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
12°C
2°C
35 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the main starting points and parking areas for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The traditional starting point for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is Horton-in-Ribblesdale, where you'll find dedicated parking facilities. Many hikers also begin from Ribblehead or Chapel-le-Dale, offering alternative access points to the circular route. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is advisable to secure a parking spot.
Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge dog-friendly?
Yes, the challenge is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep your dog on a lead, especially when passing through areas with livestock. Be prepared for varied terrain, including rocky sections and stiles, which might require assisting your dog. Ensure your dog is fit enough for a long, strenuous hike and carry plenty of water for them.
What is the best time of year to hike the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The best time to undertake the challenge is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, you'll generally experience longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions. However, be prepared for changeable weather at any time of year in the Yorkshire Dales, as conditions on the peaks can shift rapidly.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
No, you do not need a permit to hike the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, nor is there an entrance fee for the Yorkshire Dales National Park itself. However, if you're participating in an organized event, there may be registration fees involved. Parking facilities often charge a fee.
What is the terrain like on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The trail features a diverse and often challenging terrain. You'll encounter rough, boggy, and rocky sections, along with some well-maintained paved paths. Expect steep ascents and descents, particularly on Pen-y-Ghent with its rocky scramble, and the steep slopes of Ingleborough summit. Whernside Summit generally offers a more gradual ascent but can have very steep descents. The route also includes sections along dry stone walls and moorland.
How long does it typically take to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
The traditional challenge is to complete the entire 25-mile (40 km) route within 12 hours. This requires a good level of fitness and a steady pace. For those not aiming for the 12-hour target, it can take anywhere from 10 to 15 hours, depending on your fitness, pace, and the number of breaks you take.
What notable landmarks and viewpoints can I see along the route?
The challenge offers spectacular scenery and iconic landmarks. You'll summit Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside Summit, and Ingleborough summit. Other highlights include panoramic views of the Ribble Valley, the impressive View of the Ribblehead Viaduct, and the Blea Moor Signal Box. On a clear day from Whernside, you might even see Morecambe Bay and the Irish Sea.
Is the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge suitable for beginners?
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is classified as a hard and seriously tough undertaking. It involves an almost marathon distance with significant ascent. It is not recommended for beginners without prior experience in long-distance hiking on hilly and rough terrain. A good level of fitness, endurance, and preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Does the route intersect with other well-known trails?
Yes, the route primarily follows the 'Three Peaks Walk' for about 93% of its length. It also briefly intersects with sections of the 'Dales High Way', 'Ribble Way', and the 'Pennine Way' (both the Malham to Horton in Ribblesdale and Horton in Ribblesdale to Hawes sections).
What should I wear and bring for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge?
Given the changeable weather and challenging terrain, proper gear is crucial. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support, and layered clothing suitable for all conditions (including waterproofs). Carry a map and compass (or GPS device), plenty of water and high-energy snacks, a first-aid kit, headlamp, and a fully charged phone. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steep ascents and descents.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the finish line?
Yes, if you start and finish in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, you'll find a couple of pubs and a cafe where you can celebrate your achievement and refuel. These establishments are popular with hikers completing the challenge, offering a well-deserved rest and refreshments.
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Trail Reviews
Our longest walk so far, again very lucky to have clear views and good weather all day.. We completed the challenge starting with Pen-Y-Ghent - - Whernside-- Ingleborough
I think that most people know what the Yorkshire Three peaks Challenge is in the Dales National park. Directions of the route may not be needed as they are found everywhere online already and the path is marked quite well of the route you need to do, however here you can read of our experience tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and some tips I have for you that you may not have read before! Our group for this was rather large and we were dressed in Hawaiian style on this walk as it was for charity. The Yorkshire air ambulance and Mind. Before arriving we already knew that the group will split up very fast due to people having different levels of fitness. I, myself have attempted this challenge before, however last time we stuck with the last people in the group to make sure that they would safely return back to the campsite and guided them down in the dark with headtorches. I won’t even mention the time we did it in last time, but it’s safe to say that we did not do it under the 12 hours. This walk for us was a chance to redeem ourselves as we knew that we could do it under 12 hours with no problems if we had no obstacles in our way. Due to this when signing up to the walk we clearly stated that we will do this walk in our own pace and were quite pleased that we were not the organisers of this one as we had no obligation to stick with the back of the group. The strategy was quite simple for us. Just keep walking! As fast as we can with minimal stops. We started just opposite the Café, where the official walk begins. With an early rise of 4 am at a nearby campsite to leave by 5am and to set of from Horton-in-Ribblesdale by 6am. To have enough daylight for the walk and to hopefully see the sunrise on top of Pen-y-Ghent (694 m). Spoiler- it was overcast. You have to head into the little alley way type of street in-between houses to get this started. You’ll soon reach a point where the road splits! For the Yorkshire Three Peaks route you’ll need to head right until you see a bridge and then after crossing this head left and follow the road around. You will come to a point where you can see a sign advising you to head left onto the grassy hill, where the ascent begins. There are two gates there, do head through the ones that are on the right as the ones to the left will not be correct. The walk up on this may be hard for some, but you can always take your time and as many breaks as you think is necessary. Short often breaks are often the way to go! Pen-y-Ghent is probably the easiest one to climb and also the most fun. Half way up on this peak after you turn left you will have some scrambling opportunity. If you follow the path you will need to climb up some bigger rocks. Depending on the amount of people there may be slight queues. There is a way around it to get to the top of the scrambling path. This is just to your left of that path over the rocks. This will require more scrambling than the path will provide and will possibly be more difficult. We, did not take this way up this time and stuck to the main path! However, have done it many a times before when ascending on to Penn-Y-Ghent. If you decide to go this way please be very careful! As much as we have been fine the few times when we did this for fun, you are responsible for your own safety and need to be vigilant at all times! After the scrambling path you will have a little rest as the path will even out right to the trig point with a very gentle ascent. It took us just under an hour to get to the trig point of Pen-Y-Ghent and I must say that I am very pleased with this time! We were all quite happy. Most of the group was already passed on the way up. We did take a short break at the top, awaited a few others from our group, took a picture with them and carried further. The climb down from Pen-Y-Ghent is not very hard. You have only just begun and should have plenty of strength. However, once you get to a flatter ground before the path starts heading back up you’ll see a post showing where the route continues. If for some reason you think you can’t do all three peaks, this is your chance to get out! Turn left and head down back to Horton-In-Ribblesdale. Carrying straight will lead you to the next peak – Whernside (736 M). However if you are not rushed for time I would strongly suggest on heading right as after a short 5-10 minute walk you’ll find yourself by Hull Pot! When you head left after a moment you’ll be able to hear a water stream! And what you’ll see in front of you is the earth opening up. If it has been raining in the previous days Hull Pot waterfall will be magnificent! A definite must see in my opinion. You can also get some pretty cool pictures there too! Some people do climb down to the bottom of it, however I would advise to do this only if you are an experienced climber and are not alone! After you’re done with admiring Hull Pot and perhaps even have had a snack break by it, you’ll need to come back to the path and head up to continue the Three Peaks challenge. I usually wouldn’t skip Hull Pot, however as we were trying to complete this as fast as we could we did not go see it. I did however let the others know that it is there and I’d recommend going to it if they’re up to it. I believe that to anyone who you ask the walk between Pen-Y-Ghent and Whernside seems to be the worst as it seems never-ending. It is a 3-4 hour long walk through the rolling fields to get to the Ribblehead Viaduct which is located on the bottom of Whernside. Near this you will be able to find a train station, ice cream vans and there is also a pub near the train station. It is worth noting that if you carry on now you won’t really have a chance to turn back anymore as Whernside will be the furthest point you can go on this walk. If you’re tapping out you’ve got a few options. You can head back the way you came to retrace your steps back to Horton-In-Ribblesdale, you can head down on the road or you can go for the friendliest way to your legs and check the train times and catch the train back one stop to Horton-in-Ribblesdale. If you’re still feeling up to it, then carry on, on the path! But be warned that this really is the last place to turn back! The walk up to Whernside may seem a little off as for a while you’ll be following the road around the peak instead of heading right to the top of it! It will be a gradual incline, but nothing too horrible! Once you’ve reached the furthest point you will start heading left to the top of it. I personally quite like the walk up to Whernside as it’s not really that hard and I think it offers the better views too, with the ascent coming from side of the peak. The Trig point will be hidden behind a rock wall with a tiny slit in it. We tapped the trig point and had a little snack break. We reached the top by 10:49am, which is incredible. Our pace was very steady through ought it all. On the top we met some race marshals who we chatted to a little as the Yorkshire Three Peaks fell race was on that day! The runners, however didn’t run up around to get to top of Whernside, but rather were faced with the steep side to ascend to the top! Not sure which would have been better running. Ha! One of the volunteers told us that he holds the all time 3rd place for this Fell race. How amazing is that? We chatted a little more and gained insight on when to expect the first runners by and headed on our way! The climb down from the second peak is as any really. And the distance between the Second and the Third peak isn’t daunting either. Once you’ve found yourself at the bottom of Whernside on the other side you’ll soon find yourself next to a campsite which has a café/bar and restrooms! We took a quick break here, with a hot cup of soup and some crisps for the salt gains. Too much salt is bad, but not enough salt is also bad! During walks like these you have to make sure to have enough fuel for yourself. This includes having sugary sweets and salty snacks to balance everything, besides the sandwiches or pasta salads you can take with you you’ll need a lot of calories for this! And definitely don’t forget to bring enough water. This little campsite also has a free water refill station! I had a 1.5L water balder in my bag and two 0.7L water bottles of Smart water. I have started a habit of taking the Smart Water with me as it contains some electrolytes in it, which can help you while exercising. Don’t get me wrong, it’s no magic potion, but maybe the placebo helps! Onward from here you just have to follow a the path which will soon lead you onto a road where you’ll need to head left. Make sure to keep an eye out for a pub on your right as just after this will be a path further. There are signs there and usually plenty of people are doing this route, but precaution never hurts! Just on this field the first fell runners past us in this day. I was so excited to cheers them on! And kept doing so with pretty much every runner on the way. Most of the way to the third peak, Ingleborough (723 M) is quite flat. Expect a little further on this field that had cows that were quite fluffy (Can’t say I’ve ever seen cows this fluffy) the path will start to incline. This will happen about three times with little hills to overcome. But then, you’ll find yourself by a very steep wall in front of you! This is fun to climb! Tough, but fun! Make sure to have enough rest. Even the fell runners weren’t running this part so you know it’s hard. After you’ve concurred this part there won’t be much left now till the summit! Just another rocky climb to the top. The top of Ingleborough then evens out and I’ve never really seen it not covered in mist and cloud so can say that the feeling up there is quite surreal. You can’t see much else just the white mist around you. No trig point in sight. All you have to do is carry on straight at the top and you’ll see the trig point eventually. Quite a lot of people do get confused and lost on top of Ingleborough as the path is not clear, especially if you can’t see your surroundings due to the weather. Once you’ve reached the trig point you’ll need to head back down the same way you came up on the last rocky path. When you head down you’ll see a path to your right. This is the path that will get you back to Horton-In-Ribblesdale! The way down is a little rugged and on the day we went it was quite muddy due to the weather and due to the many feet that crossed it due to the fell race. There were a few mountain rescue teams out as well due to some bad slips. Coming down Ingleborough I’d suggest to be careful in any weather as the initial path down is a little rough with rocks and mud. Once you’ve come on the bottom of this, the path will even out and you’ll just need to carry on. This part always seems quite long and the mile markers at the end seem like they’re lying! Ha! Not sure if they are, maybe it’s just the tiredness that’s talking at that point. Soon you’ll find yourself crossing the train tracks back into Horton-In-Ribblesdale! Be careful on these and watch out for the train! Not all trains stop there! It took us just under 9 hours to finish this challenge, which we are very happy about as we most definitely redeemed ourselves from the first attempt! If you ever want to do the Yorkshire Three peaks, I’d suggest perhaps starting with one by one to learn the paths and the routes and the difficulty. Over the last year I have managed to come out to the wonderful National Dales Park and hike up and down these individually and with some other peaks and walks too! It’s supper accessible with the train! There’s some great campsites nearby too that are very affordable. In Horton-In-Ribblesdale you’ll find two pubs and a café where you can rest and refuel yourself!
Great panoramic views on each of the peaks with a long flat section between peny-ghent and whernside. Generally an easy route. Just long.
Relive Video - https://www.relive.cc/view/vAOZnDP8joO
Although there is no official start and end point of the Y3P, Many people start from Horton in Ribblesdale and walk counter clockwise around the route. This route was recorded when working as an MLT guiding challengers around the route in May 2022. And also guiding another group in June 2022 The Y3P is a continuous circle (where you can start from your desired location) This particular route starts at St Oswald's Church and ends crossing the station tracks in Horton in Ribblesdale. Due to various parking spots in Horton, Your route could start anywhere from the field car park (£4 June 2022) on Station Rd to the Golden Lion facing the church. So I have purposely left this section out, to suit your own needs. The route can get busy at weekends during the summer months with challengers raising money for various charities. In May with one group, i completed in just under 12hrs. In June I completed the route in 8hrs 30mins. Not taking breaks into account, you need to have an average pace of around 3.5km consistently to finish in under 12hrs.
Cant believe battery died on my phone nearly got to the end haha
Pleasure to organise for these folk! 11 out 11 successful at under 12 hours
+0.7 miles as Kamoot decided to clear the route when I went of piste and didn't go through the grave yard ☠💀