Fundraising challenge

Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge 2026

Choose the full 24-mile challenge or the 8-mile Whernside circular route and help Naomi’s Garden move mountains.

Challenge at a glance

Everything you need to get started.

Event type: Hike
Date: 22 August 2026
Location: Yorkshire Dales
Registration: Three Peaks: £50
Whernside: £20
Fundraising target: Three Peaks: £300
Whernside: £100
Distance and ascent: 24 miles / 5,200 ft
8 miles / 1,425 ft

The challenge

Move mountains with us.

Join our hike for Naomi’s Garden, supporting children and adults with movement disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s, stroke, MS, autism, ADHD and sensory issues.

Help us raise vital funds to finish the Naomi’s Garden refurbishment. You will experience the Yorkshire Dales’ sweeping hills, dramatic rock formations, vast moorlands and serene valleys while making a huge difference.

Meet other like-minded people as we complete this challenge together. Places are limited, so if you are ready for the challenge, sign up now.

Need some inspiration?

Included

What’s included when you take on the challenge?

A friendly team to support you with fundraising tips and ideas.
Access to our event WhatsApp group.
A fully supported route with regular rest stops.
Hike leaders and medical support.
A custom branded sports T-shirt.
A certificate on completing the route.

Routes

Two ways to take part.

The 24-mile circular route starts and finishes at Horton in Ribblesdale. The 8-mile Whernside route starts and finishes at Ribblehead Viaduct.

24 miles

Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge Route

The route starts and finishes in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, a small village in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Heading out clockwise, the walk begins with a steady approach before climbing Pen-y-ghent, the first of the three peaks, offering expansive views back across Ribblesdale.

Descending from Pen-y-ghent, the route opens into wider terrain, passing farmland and limestone landscapes before reaching the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. From here, the path gradually rises towards the long ridge of Whernside, the highest of the three peaks.

The descent leads into Chapel-le-Dale and past Philpin Farm, a key checkpoint and natural rest point. The route then turns towards the final ascent of Ingleborough before descending across open countryside to Horton-in-Ribblesdale and completing the full circuit.

8 miles

Whernside Circular Route

The shorter circular route begins at Ribblehead Viaduct, heading across the valley before climbing steadily onto the slopes of Whernside. The ascent is gradual but continuous, eventually reaching the summit ridge with panoramic views across the Yorkshire Dales.

From the summit, the route continues clockwise along the ridge before descending towards Ribblehead Viaduct, completing an accessible 8-mile circular walk that captures the highlight of the highest peak.

Frequently asked questions

Preparing for the challenge.

How fit do I need to be?

The route is designed to be challenging but is achievable for most people provided you train well in advance. When you sign up, we’ll be available to help you prepare.

Is there an age limit?

The minimum age for the full Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge is 14. Anyone under 18 will need an adult to take part with them. The adult must also sign up and fundraise.

For the 8-mile Whernside Circular Route, the minimum age is 8 and an adult must take part too.

What will I need to carry?

You will need to carry all essential kit, including waterproofs, layers, at least two litres of water, sun cream and snacks. Check the kit list for everything you will need.

Train with your backpack at full weight so that you are used to hiking with it.

What will the terrain be like?

We hike on varied and undulating terrain. Some sections may be muddy if it has rained, so suitable footwear is essential. Worn-in boots with ankle support are highly recommended.

How long will it take?

The 24-mile route should take approximately 12 hours but can take some walkers longer. The 8-mile route can take around five to six hours.

What if the weather is bad?

We carry on, so check the kit list and come prepared for all types of weather. If conditions become severe or dangerous, our team will decide whether to withdraw the event in the interests of safety.

Can a friend who isn’t signed up walk with me?

No. Everyone taking part must be fully registered and fundraising.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are not permitted on the 24-mile hike for safety reasons. They are welcome at the start or finish with friends and family but must be kept on a lead.

Well-behaved dogs can join the 8-mile Whernside circular route but must be kept on a lead and be able to complete the route comfortably.

Will there be parking?

There is limited parking at Horton in Ribblesdale, BD24 0HF, at ///accordion.brew.ranges. The 24-mile hike starts and finishes at the Crown Hotel. Parking is also available at the National Park Authority at ///chestnuts.jugs.grounded, charged at £8.50 for 24 hours.

For the 8-mile route, there is free roadside parking at Ribblehead Viaduct at ///affirming.money.life, or parking at The Station Inn, Low Sleights Road, Carnforth LA6 3AS.

What time does the hike start?

Check-in opens at the Crown Inn at 5.30am for a safety briefing and team introductions. The challenge starts before 6am.

Ready to take part?

Together we can move mountains.

For more information, email fundraising@naomisgarden.org.