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Three Peaks Walks |
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Three Peaks Walks |
Traditionally the 'Three Peaks' walks takes on the challenge of attempting to traverse them within a specific time frame, the Yorkshire route in twelve hours and the National one within twenty-four hours but you may wish to walk at a more leisurely pace, pause and take in the sights and discover what each location has to offer. The Webtogs guide will focus on the Yorkshire Three Peaks and surrounding areas.
Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Walk is 24.5 miles long and involves over 5,000 feet of ascent and covers quite a vast array of terrain on the route through the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.
Pen-y-ghent
Pen-y-ghent is the most well-known of these peaks and offers a dramatic vision from the starting point at the quaint village of Horton which is home to the Three Peaks Tea shop. The surrounding area includes the Plover Hill ridge which offers further views and is less travelled, plus a bit further from the main route lies Hull Pot which is the largest naturally formed sinkhole in Britain which is worth a look. The area also includes a number of waterways to explore as well including the River Ribble, not forgetting climbing the peak itself of course.
Whernside
There are a number of options for the ascent of Whernside but normally Ribblehead is the starting point, particularly if taking part in the Three Peaks Walk. From here you can explore the Victorian Ribblehead Viaduct before heading to the highest fells in the area before reaching the tallest peak; Whernside. On a clear day the views from Whernside summit include the Lake District and Morecambe Bay which are reasons enough to hike it. Certain times of day can be busy but the main route is well marked so is easy to follow.
Ingleborough
Ingleborough is the second highest mountain in the Dales and holds an impressive view of a number of other peaks once you reach the summit, plus a number of ruins dating to the Iron Age. Commonly the route is started from the village of Ingleton though can be started from other villages as well which take in some of the varied geological sites of the area that includes the Ingleborough Cave, Trow Gill ravine and other caves and potholes that can be explored. The Ingleborough Estate nature trail is ideal if you want a leisurely walk or should a challenge be more appealing steeper ascents can be found via unmarked routes.
As each of these peaks has plenty to explore always make sure to plan a route ahead before you go.
