Map & Elevation
About this Route
The Yorkshire Three Peaks is a 38.6 km clockwise circuit from Horton-in-Ribblesdale over Pen-y-ghent (694 m), Whernside (736 m) and Ingleborough (723 m). The GPX's authoritative OS metadata records 1,513 m of ascent and follows the traditional order, with long moorland links between steep summit climbs.
This is a serious full-day walk. The familiar challenge target is 12 hours, but the 10 hr 14 min estimate here is a planning figure rather than a deadline. Expect exposed weather, rough or wet ground and demanding navigation if cloud covers the summits.
There are road and railway crossings as well as three mountain ascents. The long section from Pen-y-ghent to Ribblehead is where a fast start often catches up with people, while the descent from Whernside is steep and heavily worn. By Chapel-le-Dale, you still have Ingleborough and the final moorland return to Horton ahead. Carry all the food and water you expect to need, know the last safe turn-back points, and do not let the twelve-hour tradition dictate decisions. Treat each road crossing as a chance to reassess the group honestly.
"The safest time to walk is in daylight hours."
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority
Route Waypoints
Start at the National Park car park. Follow the GPX through the village and Brackenbottom, then join the Pennine Way for the steep ascent of Pen-y-ghent.
Descend north on the Pennine Way, then follow the signed Yorkshire Three Peaks line across Whitber Hill and via God's Bridge towards Ribblehead.
Cross the B6255 with care and follow the path beside the railway and beneath the viaduct. Continue north, cross the railway, then climb the long ridge to Whernside.
Follow the ridge south, then take the steep, twisting descent towards Bruntscar. Continue past Philpin Farm to Chapel-le-Dale.
Pass through Chapel-le-Dale after the steep Whernside descent. This is the last major valley point before the climb through limestone country to Ingleborough.
From Chapel-le-Dale, follow the signed path through limestone country before the steep final climb. In cloud, take particular care when leaving the broad summit plateau.
Follow the signed line across the limestone pavement and moor towards Horton. In darkness or mist, the field boundaries and railway provide useful checks on direction.
Descend east from Ingleborough, keeping to the GPX through Sulber Nick and the fields. Cross the railway at Horton station and return to the car park.
Essential Tips
The 10 hr 14 min time is a GPX-derived planning estimate, not a target. The traditional challenge benchmark is 12 hours; pace the walk safely and turn back if conditions or daylight demand it.
All three summits are exposed and their plateaus can be confusing in cloud. Carry an OS map and compass, suitable layers, waterproofs and a charged phone; use the GPX as a backup, not your only navigation.
Parking at Horton is limited and fills early; Horton station is close to the start. Public toilets are at the car park, there are no route bins, and refreshments cannot be relied upon, so carry enough food and water.
The route crosses roads near Ribblehead and Chapel-le-Dale, but onward transport is limited. Decide turn-back times before starting and do not continue merely to protect a challenge time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which order does this Yorkshire Three Peaks GPX follow?
It follows the classic clockwise circuit from Horton-in-Ribblesdale: Pen-y-ghent first, then Whernside, Ingleborough and the return through Sulber Nick.
Do I need to register for the Yorkshire Three Peaks?
No. The route uses public rights of way and open access land, so individual walkers do not need to register. Organised groups can notify the National Park Authority.
How long is this Yorkshire Three Peaks route?
The GPX metadata records 38.6 km with 1,513 m of ascent. Its Naismith planning estimate is 10 hr 14 min, while the traditional challenge benchmark is under 12 hours.