THE BEST UK HIKING CHALLENGES

If you’re looking to get your heart pumping on your next hike, then check out these epic UK walking challenges. Physically and mentally demanding, they’ll put your stamina and speed to the test and get you pushing yourself in ways you didn’t know possible. 

Arguably one of the most famous UK hiking challenges, the UK Three Peaks involves summiting the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales—all within just 24 hours! The challenge includes:

• Ben Nevis (Scotland)
• Scafell Pike (England)
• Snowdon (Wales)

• Distance on foot: 23 miles
• Total ascent: 3,062 metres
• Driving distance between peaks: 462 miles

It’s not just about the hiking—the travel between peaks is a huge part of the challenge. Most participants recommend having a dedicated driver so you can catch some sleep between climbs.

Mental challenge: Many say the lack of sleep and the mental battle is even tougher than the physical walking.

Unpredictable weather: Be ready for anything! Luckily, having a car means you can carry extra gear and change clothes between mountains.

You have two main options:

• Self-organised groups:
  • Cheapest way to do it
  • Requires confidence in navigation and mountain experience
  • You’ll need a reliable crew to drive and feed you
• Organised trips:
  • Run by charities and adventure companies
  • More expensive, but includes experienced guides who know the challenge inside out

Are you up for the UK Three Peaks? It’s a legendary test of endurance, teamwork, and determination—perfect for anyone seeking the ultimate UK hiking challenge!

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a classic endurance hike set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Scientific Interest. 

• Circular walk covering approximately 24–25 miles (39.2 km)
• Total ascent: around 1,585–1,600 metres
• No driving required—complete the entire route on foot in one continuous loop
• Usual time target: under 12 hours

• Pen-y-Ghent (694 m)
• Whernside (736 m)
• Ingleborough (723 m)

These peaks form a triangle around the head of the River Ribble valley, offering dramatic views and a variety of terrain. 

• Longer than the UK Three Peaks Challenge, but with less total ascent and no travel between climbs
• Requires an average pace of about 3.5 km/h, allowing for short breaks and a lunch stop
• Well-signposted and popular, especially in peak season

• Stunning scenery in one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks
• A real test of endurance and stamina, but achievable for well-prepared walkers
• Popular for charity events and group challenges, with hundreds taking part on busy weekends

Whether you’re looking for a memorable day out with friends or aiming to set a personal best, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a must for any serious UK hiker.

Looking for a challenge that goes beyond just three peaks? The Welsh 3000s might be just what you’re after. This epic adventure involves summiting all 15 mountains in Wales that stand over 3,000 feet—within 24 hours and without using any form of transport between them.

• Number of peaks: 15 mountains over 3,000ft
• Time limit: 24 hours
• No transport: The entire route is completed on foot, with no vehicles allowed between summits

• Official timed route: Approximately 24 miles
• Actual distance: Most people start on the summit of Snowdon, adding at least 6 extra miles, so expect to cover 30+ miles in total
• Terrain: Rocky, technical, and often steep—both uphill and downhill

Navigation: The route is tricky and requires good map-reading skills, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area

Mountain conditions: Exposed ridges like Crib Goch can be dangerous, especially in poor weather

Physical demands: The combination of distance, ascent, and rough terrain makes this a challenge for only the fittest and most experienced mountain walkers or runners

The Welsh 3000s is one of the most demanding hiking challenges in the UK, offering breathtaking views and a true test of mountain endurance. If you’re up for it, make sure you’re well-prepared, experienced, and ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Another iconic Yorkshire challenge, the Lyke Wake Walk is a legendary crossing of the North York Moors, stretching roughly 40 miles from Osmotherley in the west to Ravenscar on the east coast—all within 24 hours. 

• Distance: 40–42 miles (64–67 km) across the North York Moors
• Time limit: 24 hours to complete the crossing
• Start/Finish: Osmotherley (Cod Beck Reservoir or Scarth Wood Moor) to Ravenscar (or vice versa)
• No official route: You choose your own path, but sticking to high ground is recommended to avoid unnecessary detours

Historic roots: The walk is named after the Lyke Wake Dirge, a traditional Yorkshire song about the soul’s journey through purgatory - a fitting metaphor for the challenge’s difficulty.

Route flexibility: There is no set route; navigation skills are essential to avoid adding extra miles or wandering into disqualifying areas like Eskdale.

Terrain: The route crosses heather moorland, old coffin routes, ancient burial mounds, and includes steep climbs, boggy sections, and exposed high ground.

Support: Many walkers use a support vehicle to meet them at road crossings, but you must complete the walk on foot.

• One of the UK’s oldest and most famous long-distance walking challenges, dating back to 1955.
• Completing the walk within 24 hours grants eligibility for membership in the Lyke Wake Walk Club—finishers are known as "dirgers" (men) or "witches" (women).
• The walk is mentally and physically demanding, requiring careful planning, stamina, and determination. 

The Lyke Wake Walk is a true test of endurance, navigation, and Yorkshire grit—an unforgettable addition to any serious hiker’s UK bucket list.

The Brecon Beacons Horseshoe is an accessible yet rewarding challenge, making it a great introduction for those new to UK hiking adventures or anyone preparing for tougher routes. 

• Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
• Location: Central Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
• Accessibility: Well-marked paths and easy to reach
• Ideal for: Beginners and those looking to build up to more demanding challenges

• Summits included:
  • Corn Du (873m)
  • Pen y Fan (886m) — the highest peak in South Wales
  • Cribyn (795m)
  • Fan y Big (719m)
• Route type: Horseshoe-shaped circuit with panoramic views across the Brecon Beacons
• Path quality: Generally well-marked and maintained, making navigation straightforward

• While relatively short and accessible, the route still requires preparation and respect for mountain conditions.
• The weather in the Brecon Beacons can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate gear and check forecasts before setting out.
• The scenery is a major highlight, with sweeping vistas from each summit.

The Brecon Beacons Horseshoe is a perfect stepping stone for hikers looking to push themselves, offering stunning landscapes, a manageable distance, and the chance to experience some of South Wales’ most iconic peaks. 

The Lake 3000s is a classic Lake District challenge that involves summiting all four of the region’s mountains that rise above 3,000 feet. This demanding route is known for its rugged terrain, big ascents, and ever-changing weather—making it a true test for even experienced hikers.

• Skiddaw (3,054ft)
• Helvellyn (3,117ft)
• Scafell (3,162ft)
• Scafell Pike (3,209ft) — the highest mountain in England

• Total ascent and descent: Over 12,550ft (3,825m)
• Distance: Up to 45 miles if done entirely on foot
• Terrain: Expect challenging rocky paths, steep climbs, and exposed ridges
• Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, so preparation is essential

• Total ascent and descent: Over 12,550ft (3,825m)
• Distance: Up to 45 miles if done entirely on foot
• Terrain: Expect challenging rocky paths, steep climbs, and exposed ridges
• Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, so preparation is essential

The Cairngorms 4000s challenge is a classic Scottish mountain adventure, taking on all the peaks over 4,000 feet in the Cairngorms National Park. This route is renowned for its wild landscapes, varied terrain, and the sheer scale of the challenge.

• Cairn Gorm (1,245m / 4,085ft)
• Ben Macdui (1,309m / 4,295ft)
• Braeriach (1,296m / 4,252ft)
• Sgòr an Lochain Uaine (1,258m / 4,127ft)
• Cairn Toul (1,291m / 4,236ft)

• Distance: Approximately 22 miles (35 km)
• Total ascent: Around 2,250–2,400 metres (7,380–7,700ft)
• Difficulty: Hard—requires fitness, stamina, and strong navigation skills
• Average walking time: 10–13 hours for experienced walkers
• Fastest known time: Under 4 hours for elite fell runners

Terrain: The route covers everything from heather moorland and grassy slopes to rocky plateaux and arctic-like tundra. Some sections are well-marked, but others require careful navigation, especially in poor weather or low visibility.

Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, from sunshine to wind and even snow, even in summer. Be prepared for exposure on high ground and always check forecasts before setting out.

Navigation: While parts of the route are obvious, there are sections—especially between summits—where good map and compass skills are essential.

The Cairngorms 4000s is a demanding but unforgettable experience, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK and a true test of your mountain skills and endurance. Whether you’re chasing a fast time or planning a scenic backpacking adventure, this challenge is a must for serious hikers and hillwalkers.

If you’re itching to head to the mountains and give one of these routes a go, make sure you’ve got all the gear you’ll need to tackle the conditions. From walking boots and shoes to waterproofs and layers, we’ve got everything you’ll need to be up for the challenge. Plus, we offer free in-store appointments and fitting services, so you can speak to our in-store experts and get the best advice and fit.