Written by: Andrew Forrest
Updated: July 2025
The Yorkshire Three Peaks and National Three Peaks challenges are excellent goals, but they also involve serious mountain undertakings. Every year, thousands attempt these challenges, whether within a set timescale, over a weekend, or more leisurely throughout the year, and mountain rescue teams respond to many avoidable incidents.
The UK's mountains may appear inviting on a fine day, but conditions can swiftly turn perilous. Safety is crucial because even a day hike can become dangerous: people have succumbed to hypothermia in cold, wet, windy weather, and others have collapsed from heat exhaustion in the scorching summer sun. Proper preparation isn't a sign of pessimism, it is about making sure you have a safe and enjoyable walk and avoiding becoming a statistic.
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On the routes of the Three Peaks (Yorkshire's Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, Ingleborough, and the national peaks Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, Snowdon), challenges include long distances, steep ascents and descents, unpredictable weather, and often tight schedules.
Many participants are enthusiastic but not highly experienced, which is why focusing on mountain safety and navigation is critical. Even well-trodden paths can become confusing in mist or darkness - for instance, Ingleborough's summit has a navigational 'black spot' where many walkers go astray in poor visibility, leading to avoidable callouts.
On the National 3 Peaks, Scafell Pike is usually climbed at night, which makes navigation challenging; indeed, according to Wasdale Mountain Rescue, most 3 Peaks rescue calls result from people getting lost on Scafell in the dark or fog.
By taking mountain safety seriously, from gear and navigation to group management, you'll not only protect yourself and your team but also
respect the Mountain Rescue volunteers who would much rather you stay safe than have to come and find you.
The motto is simple: plan for the worst, hope for the best. In the sections below, we will discuss essential safety tips tailored to the Three Peaks challenges to help you tackle them with confidence and responsibility.
Having the right gear is your first line of defence against mountain hazards. You don't need the fanciest kit, but a few essentials are non-negotiable. In fact, seasoned Three Peaks guides often, along with other kit, insist on three items for every participant: sturdy walking boots, a waterproof jacket, and a headtorch.
A summary of what you should wear and carry is shown below, but for the full list check out our gear section for the Three Peaks walk:
Wear well-fitting, broken-in boots (or trail shoes if you're experienced with them) that cover your ankles and provide good grip. Steep, rocky sections and long descents place strain on your feet and ankles - boots offer support and help prevent slips. Lightweight trainers are not suitable. Blisters are common on hikes exceeding 20 miles, so ensuring good socks and fit is important (carry blister plasters just in case). Remember, if your feet fail, the challenge is over!
Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions. A moisture-wicking base layer (synthetic or merino) next to your skin, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or light puffy), and a waterproof/windproof outer layer (shell jacket) form the classic system. Avoid cotton ('cotton kills' in the mountains) - it absorbs sweat and rain while drying slowly, chilling you rapidly. Instead, opt for quick-drying fabrics.
Always pack a warm hat and gloves, even in summer, as well as a sun hat, sun cream, and sunglasses on bright days. Conditions on the summits can differ greatly from those in the valleys - it can be considerably colder and windier at higher altitudes, with approximately a 1°C drop for every 100 metres of ascent. Therefore, even on a 'nice' day, keep an extra layer handy for exposed peaks.
A quality waterproof jacket (with hood) is truly a lifesaver if the weather turns. Even light rain can soak you through over hours, risking hypothermia. Waterproof over-trousers are also essential in wet conditions to keep your legs dry and warm. Remember that UK weather is unpredictable - a sunny morning can turn into a cold downpour by the afternoon.
Always carry a headtorch (along with spare batteries) when undertaking the Three Peaks. Even in summer, delays or a slower pace can result in finishing at dusk or in darkness. For the National 3 Peaks, at least one mountain is likely to be tackled at night. A headtorch allows your hands to be free and prevents the daunting situation of being caught in darkness on challenging terrain. Do not rely on your phone's flashlight - it's no substitute and will drain your battery.
Trekking poles (optional) can help reduce stress on the knees during descents - consider them if you have knee issues or for long downhill walks such as those off Snowdon or Ingleborough. A small first aid kit (including blister care, adhesive bandages, painkillers, etc.) is advisable.
Many Three Peakers also carry a foil emergency blanket or, even better, an inexpensive orange survival bivvy bag for emergencies - it's a compact item that could prove invaluable if you're immobilised and waiting for help. Finally, don't forget to bring a fully charged mobile phone, but ensure it is kept watertight (using a ziplock bag or waterproof case), and carry a backup battery pack. We'll discuss phone use and its limitations in more detail later.
Since weight is a concern on long hikes, share group gear. Not everyone needs to carry a large first aid kit or group shelter, but ensure at least one person has each safety item, and that everyone knows who has what.
Also, test your gear beforehand - break in your boots, practice using your waterproofs, and make sure your head torch works! Good gear won't help if you don't know how to use it.
On the National Three Peaks, you can store spare kit in the car. This way, if you get soaked on Ben Nevis, you can start in dry gear on Scafell Pike. Remember to check out our full recommended kit list; the above is just a summary.
Navigation is essential in the mountains and is often the weakest link for Three Peaks challengers. Many rescue callouts occur simply because people get lost or take a wrong turn. Technology can assist, but nothing replaces map-and-compass skills and good judgment. Here's how to stay on track:
Always take a proper Ordnance Survey map (1:25,000 Explorer covering the area) and a compass. Don't rely solely on a phone screenshot or route description. A full-size, waterproof map (or one in a case) is ideal. This allows you to reorient yourself if you detour or if poor weather obscures the path.
Five OS maps that cover the various routes around the Yorkshire and National Three Peaks, along with the essential compass
Buy these maps at Amazon:
For Ben Nevis
OS Explorer 392 - Buy here
For Scafell Pike
OS Explorer OL4 - Buy here
OS Explorer OL6 - Buy here
For Snowdon / Yr Wyddfa
OS Explorer OL17 - Buy here
For Yorkshire 3 Peaks
OS Explorer OL2 - Buy here
Understand the basics: know how to identify your location on the map, follow the route, and navigate to safety should you need to turn back. If you're lacking confidence, consider taking a navigation course or hiring a qualified mountain leader for the day - it can transform a potentially stressful slog into a safe, enjoyable guided experience.
Having a compass is pointless if you cannot take a bearing or orient your map. Practice beforehand or take a quick tutorial on map and compass use. A common mistake is reversing grid references or misreading the map - remember the mantra 'along the corridor, then up the stairs' (first read the eastings, then the northings when giving a grid reference).
If you carry a GPS device or use a smartphone app, great - but those should supplement, not replace, traditional navigation skills.
GPS devices and mapping apps (like OS Maps, OutdoorActive, etc.) are excellent tools that provide real-time location information. However, do not rely solely on your phone, as mountainous areas often experience poor signal and lack data connectivity. Cold or wet weather can cause electronics to malfunction, and batteries deplete more quickly in low temperatures.
If you are using a phone app, download offline maps in advance and carry an external battery. When you are not using your mobile, consider keeping it in aeroplane mode to conserve power and protect it from rain.
As a backup, some apps (including the free OS Locate app) can provide your grid reference even without a signal. This is extremely useful if you need to inform rescue teams of your location. However, a paper map and compass never run out of battery.
Navigation becomes significantly more difficult in darkness or fog. Schedule your hike to maximise daylight, but be prepared for changing conditions. On the National 3 Peaks, one of the peaks is mainly walked in the dark in order to make that 24-hour deadline. Many people find themselves in darkness - for instance, many find themselves on Scafell Pike at night, where the terrain and lack of distinct features can make navigation difficult in the dark.
In foggy conditions, even the Yorkshire Peaks, which primarily have well-worn and signposted paths, can become disorienting as paths may split or fade. Stay together (more eyes are better) and use your compass to follow a bearing if necessary. The summit of Ingleborough is featureless and in the dark, with low cloud or fog making navigation tricky, this is when many people tend to get disoriented.
Heading up onto Ingleborough's almost featureless flat summit plateau
If you are unsure of the route, stop and reassess rather than wandering on - many lost hikers simply miss a turn. It is easier to backtrack a short distance to known terrain than to descend blindly into unknown valleys.
If you plan to walk in the dark, practise first before you go - it is a completely different experience. Start with flat paths that you know well, and then try a hill you are very familiar with to see how you cope with navigating in the dark.
Study the route beforehand. Identify key waypoints, tricky junctions, or sections known to cause confusion. For instance, on Ben Nevis, the tourist track makes a long zigzag, do not take shortcuts as leaving the path can lead to dangerous cliffs in poor visibility. Having these mental notes will help you make decisions on the go.
Lastly, trust your tools and preparation. If your GPS shows you are not where you thought, double-check - but don't ignore it. If the map and compass suggest you're veering off course, pause and confirm rather than pressing on in the hope of the best.
Pride or summit fever shouldn't prevent you from pulling out the map - even experienced hikers do it often! Good navigation not only keeps you safe; it also saves time and energy, making the entire challenge more enjoyable.
Tackling the three peaks burns a lot of energy. Keeping yourself well-fed and hydrated is crucial for both performance and safety. Fatigue and dehydration can lead to poor decisions, slower pace, and even medical issues. Here's how to manage food and water on your hike:
Aim to carry at least 2 litres of water per person for a full-day hike and ensure you are well hydrated before you start. I know that I drink more than most, so I always begin with my 3-litre bladder full, and sometimes take additional bottles if I know there is nowhere to get water en-route. On your training walks, you should start to get used to how much water you need to carry.
On the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, it is commonly recommended to take at least 2 litres; some individuals drink more, especially in warm weather, but carrying significantly more can be burdensome. A sound strategy is to start well-hydrated (drink plenty the day before and the morning of - though go easy on the coffee) and then sip steadily during the walk. If you have a support team, they can replenish your water supply on the way around.
Utilise a hydration bladder or easily accessible water bottles so you can 'drink little and often' rather than guzzling only at major stops. This helps prevent dehydration without overloading your stomach. If you are aware of water sources along the route (streams that are safe to filter, cafés or pubs nearby, etc.), take those into account, but do not depend on random streams - in summer, they may be dry, and in populated areas, they might not be clean. On the National 3 Peaks, you'll typically have water in the support vehicle; refill between mountains and start each climb with full bottles.
Food is your fuel, and you'll need plenty. Endurance events like these are not the time to count calories - you'll burn thousands! Pack a selection of high-energy, easily eaten foods. Think snacks you can nibble on the go: cereal bars, flapjacks, chocolate, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, sandwiches or wraps, bananas, malt loaf - whatever you find palatable when working hard.
Aim to consume approximately 30-60g of carbohydrates per hour (approximately 100-200+ calories/hour) to keep your energy levels up. It's best to graze continually rather than pausing for a heavy 'lunch,' which can leave you feeling sluggish. Many successful Three Peakers tend to have a snack every 30 to 60 minutes. Set a timer if necessary, as it's easy to forget to eat until you 'hit the wall'. Remember to eat and hydrate well on the day before your walk.
Once again, during your practice walks, particularly the longer ones, you will discover which foods and snacks work best for you. Avoid
trying something new on the day.
If you're doing the 24-hour National challenge, plan your meals during car transfers. Eat a proper breakfast before starting (even if very early). Have ready-to-eat food in the vehicle so you can refuel during drives (sandwiches, pasta salad, or even just more snacks).
It's common not to feel very hungry due to exertion, but force yourself to consume calories. Your body can and will crash if it runs out of
fuel. Likewise, keep drinking; even mild dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, or cramps - not enjoyable on a mountainside.
It's advisable to pack one or two 'just in case' food items, such as an extra energy bar or a pack of sweets to save for emergencies or the final push. If your hike extends or someone in the group really bonks (runs out of energy), having a bit of sugary food on hand can provide a boost. Additionally, keeping a thermos of hot tea, coffee, or soup in the car for after the hike (or midway, if someone meets you) can work wonders for morale and warmth, especially in cold conditions.
Staying well-fed and hydrated will not only keep you physically strong, but it also keeps you mentally sharp - which is vital for navigation and all the decision-making that goes into a safe hike.
Listen to your body: if you're feeling thirsty, you're already dehydrated, so drink. If you feel low on energy, take a break and eat something. It's much better to slow down for a snack than to crawl miserably or require rescue due to exhaustion. Your goal is to enjoy the challenge, and a steady intake of food and water is key to that.
One of the golden rules of UK hill walking is to prepare for the worst weather, regardless of the forecast. The weather in the British mountains can change astonishingly quickly. A day that starts warm and sunny can see gale-force winds and driving rain by the afternoon, especially on the Three Peaks routes, which reach high, exposed summits. Ben Nevis is 1,345m - frequently in cloud, so you must be ready for anything.
Always check a mountain-specific weather forecast before your hike. The Met Office's Mountain Forecasts for National Parks and mountain regions are a fantastic resource, providing detailed information on wind, temperature, visibility, and hazards at various elevations.
Another great resource is the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS), offering forecasts specifically for hillwalkers, typically covering the next 2-3 days. It's crucial to review forecasts in the days prior to your hike, as well as the night before or the morning of your outing. Weather conditions can change, and a forecast that is only 12 hours old may be outdated.
If there are weather warnings (e.g. thunderstorms, heavy rain, extreme heat), take them seriously - consider rescheduling if possible. As Wasdale Mountain Rescue advises, it's better to be flexible with your dates and aim for good weather than to 'just go for it' in dangerous conditions simply because that's when you planned.
Even on a summer day, the hills can surprise you. The conditions in the mountains are often very different from those in the valleys. You might start in T-shirt weather, only to find the summit engulfed in cold mist and 40mph winds. I've set off a few times in a T-shirt, only to encounter snow showers upon reaching the summit.
Always pack those waterproofs and warm layers we discussed, even if the sky is blue. Similarly, be prepared for the opposite: a chilly morning can transform into a scorching afternoon. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection - UV rays can be strong, and you might not notice yourself burning if there's a cool breeze.
A helpful statistic to note is that wind speeds are generally two to three times greater on summits than at their bases, and temperatures
decrease by about 1°C for every 100 metres, plus additional wind chill. Therefore, a pleasant 15°C day in the valley might feel closer
to 5°C with strong winds at the peak of Ben Nevis, for example. Some
weather services
now provide 'feels like' temperatures for the summits of specific mountains, which can be extremely useful.
Be prepared to change or turn back if conditions worsen. This can be one of the most challenging things to do when you're determined to complete a challenge, but it's absolutely vital. As the saying goes, 'the mountains will always be there another day'.
If a sudden storm blows in or thick fog makes navigation too risky, pause the summit push. Getting caught on a high ridge in lightning or trying to descend slippery rocks in a downpour can be far more dangerous than postponing the attempt.
Always have a plan B: for the Yorkshire Three Peaks, that might mean exiting via a lowland path if one summit is unsafe; for the National 3
Peaks, it might involve skipping a peak if the weather makes it unreasonable (especially during winter conditions). It can be gutting not to
finish, but safety must take precedence over pride.
Tackling these challenges outside of summer increases the risks. With shorter daylight in spring or autumn, you must act more quickly or be prepared to hike after dark (with proper lighting). Numerous rescues on Ben Nevis and other locations happen because individuals underestimate how early darkness falls in autumn and winter.
During winter or early spring, snow and ice are often present on the peaks, with Ben Nevis commonly holding on to its summit snow until well into May. In these conditions, it's essential to have winter hiking equipment, such as an ice axe and crampons, along with the necessary skills to use them. If you lack these tools and abilities, it's best to wait for the snow to melt or choose a less challenging route at a lower elevation.
In contrast, when faced with heatwaves, commence your activities earlier to avoid the intense afternoon heat. Remember that the routes lack shade and stay vigilant for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, excessive sweating or absence of sweating, headaches, and cramps. Although the weather can present different dangers, adequate preparation will allow you to manage them effectively.
On the day, don't solely rely on the forecast you've read - observe the skies as you hike. Cloud accumulation, an increase in wind, or a drop in temperature are all indications that a change is imminent. For example, the appearance of dark cumulus clouds could suggest a thunderstorm brewing.
If you see bad weather approaching, consider altering your route (e.g., don't push to an exposed summit if a storm is imminent - perhaps wait it out or turn back). If visibility is diminishing (fog rolling in), ensure the group stays closer together, navigation tools are readily available, and ascertain exactly where you are before visibility is lost.
For a more detailed look at ways to monitor the weather, check out our weather resources page.
In summary, respect the weather. It's perhaps the single most unpredictable factor in your Three Peaks challenge. By planning ahead and staying
flexible, you greatly increase your safety margin. There's no shame in delaying your challenge for better weather - many successful challengers
pick a window with a decent forecast. And if you're out there and nature throws a curveball, use your judgment: sometimes the bravest (and
wisest) decision is to call it a day and get off the hill safely.
Planning to tackle the Three Peaks as a team? Fantastic - hiking in a group can be both safer and more enjoyable, though it necessitates good coordination. Regardless of whether you're with friends or a charitable organisation, efficient group management is essential. Here are a few suggestions to ensure your group remains safe and satisfied:
The number one rule is not to split up the group. Always remain together, especially in poor visibility or challenging terrain. There is safety in numbers - if someone gets hurt or lost, having others around is invaluable. It's tempting for quicker members to surge ahead, but in a challenge such as this, it's not a race against one another.
The group must proceed according to the slowest member's pace. This prevents anyone from feeling rushed or isolated. If your group exceeds 6-8
individuals, think about dividing into smaller sub-groups, each led by a leader, while ensuring that these sub-groups maintain communication at
checkpoints. Regularly regroup - for instance, at every summit or trail junction - to confirm that everyone is present.
It is beneficial to assign some informal roles. For example, choose an experienced person as the navigator/leader at the front, and appoint someone responsible to be the 'sweeper' at the back, ensuring that no stragglers are left behind. Rotate roles if people become tired, but ensure that everyone is aware of who is leading and who is the back marker.
The leader sets a steady pace and monitors the route, while the back marker informs if anyone needs to stop. Additionally, make sure shared equipment (such as the first aid kit, shelter, and extra water) is distributed among members, preventing one person from carrying everything, and ensuring that multiple individuals have essential gear in case of separation.
Plan your pace for the group, not for an individual. It's easy to start too quickly when energy is high; this can exhaust the slower members and cause the group to splinter. Instead, aim for a steady, moderate pace that the least fit member can maintain.
Take short, regular breaks rather than long, infrequent ones. For instance, a five-minute rest every hour to eat or drink and check in is
better than a thirty-minute lunch that allows muscles to stiffen. Use breaks to do a quick headcount and see how everyone is faring. If someone
is struggling, consider a longer rest or lighten their load by having others carry something for them. Keep an eye especially on newcomers who
might not speak up until they're truly exhausted.
Encourage a culture where anyone can say 'Hey, I need a breather' without feeling guilty. Check in on one another: 'How's your water? Need a snack?'. Often, people, particularly in a 'challenge' context, may push themselves to keep going and refrain from admitting they're feeling unwell or blistered. By proactively asking, you grant them permission to address it.
Monitor each other for signs of trouble - extreme fatigue, limping (blisters or injuries), unusual quietness (which could signal dizziness or hypothermia setting in). It's much easier to fix problems early (tape up a hotspot or have a quick refuel) than to ignore them. Also, keep the mood lifted! Positive group morale can stave off fatigue. Celebrate each summit briefly, perhaps having a team snack ritual, and continue encouraging each other ('only one more peak to go!', 'we're making good time', etc.).
Despite the best intentions, sometimes a group might split (e.g., one person decides to drop out early due to injury). Plan for this in advance: What will you do if someone cannot continue? Ideally, the whole group should abort if a member has to turn back, unless that person can get down safely with at least one companion.
Never send anyone back alone - assign at least one strong member to accompany them to the base. Ensure everyone knows the rendezvous or exit plan in case of separation. Additionally, make sure each subgroup has navigation skills and a phone. Agree on a protocol like 'if you do get isolated and lost, stay put and call for help' so no one attempts to go solo in risky terrain.
Effective party management prioritises the team over individual egos. Remember, the objective is to complete the challenge as a team - it's much more satisfying (and safer) to finish together than to leave slower members behind.
By staying united and managing pace and breaks thoughtfully, you'll lower the risks of accidents and ensure that if something does go awry, help is readily available. As Mountain Rescue advises: 'Allow the slowest in the party to set the pace and take special care of the least experienced on tricky sections, especially as they get tired'. In essence, go in together and come out together.
The mountains present various hazards, which is part of what makes them challenging. Being aware of these hazards and planning for them is a crucial aspect of mountain safety. Here are some common hazards you might encounter on the Three Peaks and how to manage them:
Uneven ground, loose stones, and steep slopes are present throughout these hikes. A simple misstep can lead to a sprained ankle or even more serious injuries. Exercise caution with foot placement, particularly on steep descents (such as descending from Whernside or navigating Scafell Pike's boulder fields).
Hands may be needed up this short section on Pen-y-ghent
Use your hands if needed on scrambly sections (there are a few rocky steps on Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough, for example). In wet weather, rocks can be very slippery - slow down and don't rush those sections.
Hands may again be briefly needed for a very short section at the top of the second steep climb
Mountain Rescue reports that slips and falls are the most common reason for callouts, so don't underestimate the terrain. If you have trekking poles, and know how to use them, they can improve balance on rough ground.
Fatigue is both a hazard itself and a risk factor for other hazards. Tired people stumble more and make poorer decisions. The Three Peaks will test your endurance - it's essentially a marathon with mountains.
To manage fatigue, pace yourself (as discussed in party management), fuel and hydrate continuously, and take short breaks. Mental fatigue also presents a challenge, particularly during the National challenge where you may get very little sleep between mountains.
Be honest about your condition: if you're extremely tired and it's getting dark, that's a recipe for mistakes - consider stopping early or skipping the next peak at night. It's better to be safe and perhaps finish slightly over 24 hours (for National 3 Peaks) than to push on in exhaustion and endanger yourself on tricky terrain.
Drivers in your Support Crew also require rest - driver fatigue during the road sections is a serious hazard often overlooked in National 3 Peaks attempts.
Hiking in darkness brings significant risks - navigation becomes more difficult, and you may miss a turn or trip over something unseen. Try to time your challenge to avoid being on summits or navigating complex sections after dark, if possible.
If night hiking is unavoidable, make sure everyone has functioning head torches, including spare batteries, and stays very close together. Terrain that is easy by day (like a simple trail across a boggy moor) can become disorienting by night - be conservative with route choices (stick to the main path).
On Scafell Pike at night, many lose the path on their descent. In such cases, it is wise to use a compass bearing or GPS to stay on track. If
you find yourself behind schedule and sunset is approaching, consider whether to turn back earlier or to find a safe spot to wait for first
light, especially if you are lost (more on that in the next section).
Fog and low clouds can descend rapidly. Suddenly, landmarks become obscured, and if there are multiple path junctions, it's easy to make a mistake. When visibility decreases, reduce your speed and bring the group closer together.
Utilise your compass or GPS to confirm the direction at each turn. If you possess a whistle, occasional blasts can assist in keeping group
members aware of one another if they become spread out (though ideally, you would regroup).
Remember that sound judgement is also impaired in thick fog - people can become flustered. If necessary, stop in a safe area (away from cliffs or hazardous terrain) and wait a moment to see if the situation clears. Always be aware of the 'escape route' - e.g., on Ben Nevis, if you can't find the path, you must avoid wandering to the north side (sheer cliffs).
Having such critical bearings recorded can save lives. If in doubt, do not proceed blindly; many serious incidents occur because people walk off edges or into hazardous terrain in fog.
After heavy rainfall, even small streams can swell into torrents. Exercise caution at known crossing points (e.g., stepping stones or fords). If a normally easy stream appears dangerous, with a swift current and water above knee-deep, do not take the risk.
Either locate a safer point (wider, shallower) or turn back. Ankle-deep water can be crossed slowly, but thigh-deep white water can easily
knock you over. Additionally, resist the temptation to cool off in mountain lakes or rivers during hot weather without caution.
Cold water shock is a genuine concern, and remote swimming carries its own risks. If you do wade through water, dry your feet and change into dry socks if possible to prevent blisters and hypothermia.
We addressed weather in its own section, but to reiterate from a risk perspective: strong winds can knock you off balance or make ridges hazardous (if winds are very high, reconsider summiting - people have been literally blown off their feet).
Lightning storms on a mountain are extremely dangerous. If thunderclouds loom, move away from elevated areas and avoid isolated peaks or metal objects. Stay low, squat if necessary, and do not seek shelter under solitary trees.
Snow and ice: if you encounter unexpected snow (which can occur on Ben Nevis even in summer in rare cases), assess the situation carefully - without crampons, even a small snowfield on a steep slope can be a sliding hazard. Turn back if you are not properly equipped.
Be mindful of 'summit fever' or groupthink leading to bad calls. Peer pressure in a group can encourage someone to push beyond their limits or keep silent about a hazard.
Promote a culture where anyone can voice 'this doesn't feel safe' and it gets heard. Sometimes the hazard is our own decision-making - recognise when it's time to be cautious. Fatigue and stress can cloud judgment, so have a plan in advance for decision points. Setting those rules beforehand helps avoid poor choices in the moment.
By considering these hazards in advance, you can often mitigate risks. Most accidents are a series of small problems that accumulate - perhaps you're running late, feeling fatigued, the weather changes, and you choose the wrong route. Managing each factor (time, fatigue, weather, navigation) helps break the chain.
As the old saying goes, 'Hope for the best, plan for the worst'. Always be prepared, know your response if someone gets injured and have a backup escape route should you need to leave the mountain. With this preparation, you can tackle whatever challenges the day presents.
Even with good preparation, accidents can occur - someone twists an ankle, you may feel disoriented, or an illness may strike. How you respond in those critical moments can significantly affect the outcome. Stay calm and keep these steps in mind for managing mountain emergencies:
If something goes wrong - you realise a group member is missing, someone is injured, or you're completely lost - the first step is to stop. Don't panic or keep moving without direction.
Gather the group in a safe spot off the path (away from any immediate dangers like falling rocks or steep drop-offs). Take a head count and
assess the injuries or the problem at hand. Check the time and note your location (if known). This is the moment to switch from 'challenge mode'
to 'survival mode' - finishing the route is now secondary to handling the emergency.
Your main aim is to prevent the situation from worsening. In the case of an injury, this means avoiding further harm - such as moving the person away from cold winds or stabilising a fall victim if there is a risk of slipping.
If someone goes missing, make sure the remaining group stays safe in one location (avoid having everyone search individually, as this can worsen the situation). If you are lost in dangerous terrain (such as near cliffs or streams), try to locate a safer area nearby, if possible.
Often, the best choice is to remain where you are once you've found a relatively safe location, particularly if you're calling for help.
Rescuers advise against continuing to move once you know you need assistance, as moving could place you in greater danger or make it more
difficult for others to find you.
If you encounter an emergency (such as someone injured or genuinely lost), begin using your signal tools while preparing to call for help. The international distress signal consists of six blasts of a whistle (or six torch flashes) in quick succession, followed by a one minute pause, then repeated.
Carrying a whistle is highly recommended - it's loud, piercing, and the sound travels much farther than shouting (plus it saves your voice). If
you are out at night, use your flashlight or head torch to flash SOS in the same pattern. These signals alert anyone within earshot that you
need assistance.
If you receive a response signal (three blasts or flashes close together with a minute's gap), continue your six-blast signal until help arrives. It helps the response team home in on you. In a group, designate one person to signal while the others prepare additional tasks.
Call 999 (or 112) and request POLICE, followed by MOUNTAIN RESCUE. The police will then coordinate the Mountain Rescue team.
Make the call as soon as you recognise that it is a serious situation (e.g., a broken leg, severe hypothermia, or someone missing for more than a brief time and presumably injured).
When connected, be prepared to provide details: your location, the nature of the emergency and injuries, the number of people in your party, and your phone number. Try to have them already written down on a piece of paper. It is always useful to carry some paper or card and a waterproof pen in your first aid kit.
This is where knowing your grid reference is invaluable - it pinpoints your location for rescuers. If you're unsure, provide the last known location or describe the terrain and landmarks. Modern smartphones and GPS devices can often provide a grid reference (using the OS Locate app or similar) - check this while you have a signal.
If you have a poor signal, try sending a text message to 999 - but you must be pre-registered for the emergency SMS service. It's a smart idea to register your phone before any big hike by texting 'register' to 999. You will receive a text back with instructions on how to complete the registration process.
A text message may still be sent even if a call drops. Additionally, bear in mind that you can dial 999 on any network; if your network lacks coverage but another does, the call should still connect.
Once you call, stay where you are unless it's unsafe to do so (e.g., if there's an imminent rockfall or rising flood). It's more difficult for rescuers to locate moving targets. The rescue team will usually try to contact you again, but if you move, they may not be able to reach you due to potential issues with receiving incoming calls.
While waiting for rescue (or if you decide to self-evacuate someone with a minor injury), take care of the injured or ill person. Use the bothy shelter or survival bag you packed to keep them warm and dry.
Add additional layers of clothing for them, as well as for others, if it's cold - you don't want anyone else to suffer from the cold. If they're conscious and in reasonable condition, offer them a warm drink and high-energy food to help retain body heat.
For serious injuries, refrain from moving the person unless it is necessary for safety - you could exacerbate the situation by moving someone
with a potential fracture or spinal injury. If they are immobile in a cold environment, it is crucial to insulate them from the ground (with a
foam mat or spare clothes) to prevent hypothermia. Keep conversing with them, if they are conscious, as this reassures them and helps you monitor
their responsiveness.
Mountain Rescue may take some time (hours) to reach you, depending on your location and the conditions. If the situation is not life-threatening and you are able to navigate out, they might advise you to self-rescue (for example, walking down with an able party or carefully assisting a mildly injured person). However, do this only if it is safe to do so and if advised.
If you're lost but uninjured, sometimes the best move is to find a safe way down on your own rather than immediately call for help - e.g., backtrack to the last known path or maybe follow a stream downhill to civilisation, etc. But balance that with safety: descending unknown steep ground can be more dangerous than waiting for daylight.
When in doubt, particularly with injuries or treacherous weather, waiting for rescue in a sheltered location is advisable. Mountain Rescue teams would prefer a lost group that is safe and stationary rather than one that wanders onto a cliff. As long as you've communicated your situation, help will arrive.
During an incident, ensure everyone remains as calm as possible. Panic and chaos can exacerbate a difficult situation. Concentrate on actionable steps: signal, call, protect from the environment, and administer first aid.
If you're in a group, delegate tasks (one calls emergency, another retrieves the shelter, another distributes extra clothes and food). This
gives people with a sense of purpose and helps to prevent panic. It's also important for everyone to carry or be aware of the emergency
kit - if the person responsible for the group shelter is injured, someone else needs to retrieve it from their pack.
Remember, needing to call Mountain Rescue is not a failure - they exist for situations like these.
If you have raised some money, or even if you haven't, please consider donating to the local mountain rescue teams for the relevant areas. They are primarily funded through public donations.
The crucial point is that everyone returns home safely. Material concerns such as 'completing in X hours' become irrelevant in an emergency - the focus should be on safety and health. As a final note, following any serious incident or near miss, take the time to debrief once it is safe: what went wrong, and what could we do differently next time?
Every experience, even misadventures, can teach valuable lessons and make you a better, safer walker, hiker or mountain adventurer.
While people attempt to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks in under 12 hours and the National Three Peaks in 24 hours, remember that this doesn't always have to be the case. You could walk them over a weekend, several days, months, or even years, which should eliminate the need to walk one in the dark. By stopping in the area while you walk each one individually, you can enjoy the experience more, take in more of the scenery, and appreciate the local area as well.
Mountain safety and navigation are what transform a potentially risky Three Peaks attempt into a successful and enjoyable adventure. By gearing up properly, knowing how to find your way, keeping yourself fuelled and dressed for the weather, managing your team, understanding the hazards, and being prepared to handle emergencies, you increase your chances of success.
Thousands complete these challenges safely each year, often crediting good preparation for their achievements. As Mountain Rescue put it, ask yourself the three questions before you go: Am I confident I have the knowledge and skills for the day? Do I know what the weather will be like? Do I have the right gear? If yes, then you're well on your way to a brilliant day out.
Stay safe, take care of one another, and enjoy conquering those peaks!