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A Beginner’s Guide To Climbing The 3 Peaks

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, or just lacing up your first pair of walking boots, the famous 3 peaks challenge attracts walkers and travellers across the country. With our beginner’s guide to the 3 Peak Challenge, we’ll provide you with all the information you need before you tackle each peak!


Scafell Pike

978 meters

5-6 Hours To Complete

The highest mountain in England, standing at an elevation of 978m, Scafell Pike is located in the Lake District National Park, in Cumbria. Not only is Scafell Pike the highest peak in England, but it also the highest war memorial, a memory of those who died in WWI. Despite being the smallest of the 3 peaks. Scafell should not be underestimated, a steep hike followed by scrambling over hard terrain  and with the likelihood of winds, snow or rain, you need to equip yourself with the correct clothing and footwear.

How Many Routes Up Scafell Pike?

Before taking on Scafell, it is important to understand which route you’re going to take. There are three main routes when tackling Scafell which you can take a look at here. Some routes are more appropriate in fair weather circumstances so it’s vital that you plan your route in accordance with the weather forecast for that day.

Where Can I Park At Scafell Pike?

If you’re driving to Scafell Pike, there is a pay and display car park if you follow the signs to Lake Head. This car park fills up very quickly, so it is recommended that you arrive early, find alternative transport or lift share as there can be congestion on the road by the car park.

What Should I Wear To Scafell Pike?

This is completely dependent on the weather, however it is important to remember that despite it being warm at the base of the mountain, the temperature will drop the higher you climb and windspeed can pick up. So it is recommended to always bring either a think waterproof coat, hoodie or fleece at the very minimum.


Snowdon

1,085m

5-7 hours to Complete

The highest mountain in Wales, standing at an elevation of 1,085m the mountain stands tall over the small village of Llanberis and is part of a family of peaks throughout Snowdonia. The second highest of the three peaks, Snowdon is unique in that if you’re tired, or not as physically able, there is the Snowdon Mountain Railway which provides a train service up and down the mountain, meaning you can take in the spectacular views without having to run the risk of becoming too tired and stranded during the climb!

How Many Routes Up Snowdon?

There are 6 routes up Snowdon, and it is important to plan your route in advance and to not deviate from the path. The longest and most popular route is the Llanberis path, which starts in Llanberis, the small village at the base of the mountain. The 5 other paths are a little shorter but are equally as challenging and steep and they each contain a rich history! To learn more about all the different paths and to plan your route, click here. For beginners, or people who haven’t climbed Snowdon before, it is recommended that you attempt the Llanberis Path.

Where Can I Park At Snowdon?

Depending on what route you decide to embark on, there are a wider array of parking options than Scarfell Pike. If you are taking the Llanberis Path there are a number of car parks in the village (LL55 4TD). If you’re taking any of the other routes, Like the Miner’s Path for example, you will have to prebook your parking spot at the Pen Y Pass Car Park. You are not able to park here if you haven’t prebooked your spot.

What Should I Wear To Scarfell?

This is completely dependent on the weather, however it is important to remember that despite it being warm at the base of the mountain, the temperature will drop the higher you climb and windspeed can pick up. So it is recommended to always bring either a think waterproof coat, hoodie or fleece at the very minimum.


Ben Nevis

1,345m

7-8 hours to complete

The tallest peak in Scotland, located in the North West Highlands and near the town of Fort William, Ben Nevis is also the tallest peak in all of the UK. The peak attracts 125k walkers a year and is part of the Grampian Mountain range. Once and active volcano, Ben Nevis is the ultimate challenge for those wanting to test their hiking skills!

How Many Routes Up Ben Nevis?

There are two main routes when tackling Ben Nevis. The most popular route for beginners and the majority of climbers is The Mountain Track, also known as the Tourist Track or the Pony Track. The other and more challenging route is called Carn Mor Dearg Arête and is recommended for more experienced climbers. If you’re wanting to plan your route or decide which path is best for you, you can find out more information here.

Where Can I Park At Ben Nevis?

For most people visiting Ben Nevis, they opt to park at the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. There is a pay and display machine which charges £4 for all day parking. There are also toilets and the visitor centre will; provide you with any questions or information you’d like about your climb. The postcode is PH33 6PF.

On the chance the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre car park is full, the Braveheart Car Park is a little smaller and holds up to 30 cars. The post code is PH33 6PF.

What Should I Wear To Ben Nevis

When climbing Ben Nevis, you should always prepare for wet weather so bringing a waterproof jacket and trousers is a MUST! Also it is handy to bring a rucksack so you can carry water, snacks and other waterproof gear if the weather changes for the worse!


There you have it, there is out quick guide to climbing the 3 peaks! Just remember to always stick to the route you decide and check weather conditions as it can be unsafe to climb any of these peaks in wet, windy and snowy weather!

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