Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge Walk

What's the Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge?

The Derbyshire Three Peaks Challenge is a circular route, starting at Hayfield, near Manchester, and then visiting three of the highest points in Derbyshire and the Peak District. The challenge is more a test of endurance over long distance and desolate moorland, rather than charceterised by steep acsents such as the Yorkshire Three Peaks, but there is still over 800m of climbing throughout the day, so it WILL work you hard.

In total, the route is over 31km (19 miles) long.

What are the three peaks?

The three peaks that make up the walk are Higher Shelf Stones (621m), Bleaklow Head (633m) and Kinder Low (633m).

What's the terrain like?

The route varies between some excellent paths and some seldom-trodden tracks. Early in the challenge, we will use dirt tracks to cross open moorland (which get muddy when wet). The ground on Bleaklow is quite challenging, with some off-path navigation needed off Bleaklow Head, and the Pennine Way on the way back to the Snake Pass summit cuts through peat hags which can make for quite arduous going.

Technically, it is quite a straight-forward walk with no scrambling involved, though the path down from Kinder Low is fairly steep.

A view towards Manchester, ont he Derbyshire Three Peaks route

How many can do the challenge?

We lead groups of up to 100 for this challenge. There is no minimum number, though there is a minimum charge equivalent to 10 people. We offer a discounted walks if you are raising money for charity.

How fit do you have to be?

The truth is that whilst not everyone will be fit enough, I'd say that with a little preparation, the route is well within the capability of most people.

If you've done any hill walking, this is absolutely achievable for you.

If you walk the dog regularly for a couple of km, or walk the kids to school, you can build up from there.

I don't have enough time to build my fitness!

Of course you do! Check out our walking routes page for some walking ideas

Can I bring my dog?

I'd ask here: How much would you dog appreciate a 24 mile walk up three mountains?! If the answer is: They'd love it! Then absolutely, consider it. Please be aware however that you will need to keep your dog on the lead throughout the walk. Please read our full FAQ for more details about bringing dogs on adventures

Where does it start?

The walk starts in the Sett Valley Trail car park, in Hayfield. There is a large car park, with a bus turning area, so perfect if you are organising transport for larger groups. Parking is usually £5 per day.

The nearest train station is in New Mills, about 4km away.

A lot of the Derbyshire Three Peaks route crosses open moorland

How long will it take?

The challenge time is to complete the walk within 10 hours. To put into context, this is a steady walking pace throughout, with small breaks. A fast walker can probably do the route in about 8-9 hours.

What time do we start?

We can vary the start time in summer, but in Autumn and Spring we usually need to make use of the available decent daylight, which can mean a fairly early start (0630-0700).

Book a date for this Challenge Walk >

'Decent... Daylight'? What happens if we get delayed and it gets dark?

Coming back in the dark is unlikely, but not an issue. We know the route well, and are also experienced of walking and navigating in the dark.

How busy will the route be?

Hayfield gets quite busy on Saturdays in summer. The route itself is not very well-known, so parts of it will be very quiet, but expect busier areas around Hayfield, the Snake Pass Summit, Higher Shelf Stones and on Kinder Scout. It will be almost deserted during the week, even in summer.

Do I need special equipment?

There will be a recommended equipment list provided to participants, but in brief, you'll need some comfy walking boots, waterproofs, non-cotton/denim trousers and an insulation layer. You'll also need to pack a rucksack with enough food and water for the day.

Can I stay locally?

There is a campsite operated by the Camping and Caravanning Club to the east of Hayfield (we actually walk through it on the way back!), The George Hotel in the centre, plus a number of B&Bs AirBnB options/

What about after the challenge?

We don’t organise a formal post-challenge meal, and groups usually are happy to make their own arrangements. We will direct finishers to meet in the place of your choice. For smaller groups, we’re happy to book somewhere locally for you and the team.

Are there refreshments and toilets on the route?

This route is very remote, and there are no facilities once we leave Hayfield. For groups of 20 or more, we will provide a support and replenishment vehicle on the Snake Pass summit which will meet you on the way out onto Bleaklow, and on your return off the moor. The vehicle will carry water top ups, plus some sugary treats.

There is no water (nor many streams) out on Bleaklow, so carry plenty of water, particularly if there is no support vehicle.

There are no toilets on route, so it's a 'wild wee' situation.