Welsh 3000s
Nov 14, 2024
Guides
The Welsh 3000s challenge stands as one of Britain's most formidable mountain adventures. This epic trek involves scaling all 15 peaks in Wales that surpass 3,000 feet (914 meters) in height, typically within 24 hours. Don't let the relatively modest elevation fool you – this is a serious undertaking that demands careful planning and solid mountain experience.
The History Behind the Challenge
The Welsh 3000s has been testing mountaineers since the early 20th century. The first recorded completion was by Thomas Longstaff in 1919, though it wasn't until the 1960s that it gained popularity as a recognised challenge. Today, while the fastest runners complete it in under 4 hours, most adventurers aim for the traditional 24-hour limit – a feat that remains highly respectable.
The Challenge Explained
The route spans approximately 30 miles (48 km) across three distinct mountain ranges in Snowdonia National Park:
The Snowdon Range
The Glyderau
The Carneddau
What makes this challenge particularly demanding isn't just the distance – it's the cumulative ascent of roughly 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) and the often challenging Welsh weather conditions. The terrain varies dramatically, from well-marked paths to scrambles that verge on rock climbing.
Breaking Down the Route
1. The Snowdon Massif
Starting with Wales' highest peaks:
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)- 3,560ft: The highest point in Wales and your likely starting point
Garnedd Ugain - 3,494ft: Often overlooked but offering spectacular views
Crib Goch - 3,028ft: The infamous knife-edge ridge that demands a head for heights
The top of snowdon at around 4.30am.
Crib goch sunrise
2. The Glyderau Range
Moving into more rocky terrain:
Elidir Fawr - 3,031ft: A steep climb that tests tired legs
Y Garn - 3,107ft: Offering dramatic views of the Ogwen Valley
Glyder Fawr - 3,284ft: A moonscape of broken rock and dramatic formations
Glyder Fach - 3,262ft: Home to the famous cantilever stone
Tryfan - 3,010ft: A scrambler's paradise requiring careful navigation
View from Pen Yr Ole wen to Tryfan.
Glyder Fach Cantilever Stone.
3. The Carneddau Range
The final and longest section:
Pen yr Ole Wen - 3,209ft: A brutal ascent from the Ogwen Valley
Carnedd Dafydd - 3,425ft: Offering respite with grassy plateaus
Carnedd Llewelyn - 3,491ft: The highest point in the Carneddau
Yr Elen - 3,156ft: Requiring a there-and-back detour
Foel Grach - 3,202ft: A remote summit with an emergency shelter
Garnedd Uchaf - 3,038ft: A subtle rise on the plateau
Foel-fras - 3,091ft: The final summit and a welcome sight
Sunset towards the end
Essential Preparation
Physical Training
Build endurance with long hill days
Practice consecutive days in the mountains
Include specific scrambling practice
Work on descending technique – it's harder than you think
Don't neglect upper body strength for the scrambling sections
Navigation Skills
Practice map and compass work in poor visibility
Study the route thoroughly beforehand
Know your escape routes
Consider a GPS as backup but don't rely on it
Learn to navigate by natural features
Equipment Essentials
Mountain Clothing:
Quality waterproofs (jacket and trousers)
Multiple thermal layers
Hat and gloves (even in summer)
Sturdy mountain boots
Safety Gear:
Head torch and spare batteries
First aid kit
Emergency shelter
Whistle
Mobile phone in waterproof case
Navigation Tools:
Maps (OS Explorer OL17 and OL18)
Compass
GPS device (optional)
Logistics and Planning
Support Options
Self-supported:
Carry all necessary supplies
Requires careful weight management
Most challenging but most flexible
Vehicle Support:
Meet support team at road crossings
Allows for lighter packs
Requires careful timing and coordination
Multiple Days:
Use mountain huts or valleys for overnight stops
More enjoyable for photography and exploration
Removes time pressure
When to Attempt It
The challenge can be attempted year-round, but each season brings its considerations. We did it in September and luckily had great weather a clear but not too hot day.
Summer (June-September):
Longest daylight hours
Generally better weather
Busier mountains
Best for first attempts
Spring/Autumn:
More changeable weather
Fewer daylight hours
Less crowded
Beautiful colours and conditions
Winter:
Requires winter mountaineering skills
Shorter days demand exceptional fitness
Additional equipment needed
Stunning snow conditions possible
Weather and Safety
The weather in Snowdonia is notoriously changeable. A few key points:
Check mountain weather forecasts specifically (MWIS)
Be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate
Know the locations of emergency shelters
Inform someone of your plans
Register with local mountain rescue text service
Records and Recognition
While there's no official governing body, these achievements are worth noting:
Fastest completion: 4 hrs 10 mins 48 seconds (Finlay Wild in 2019)
Traditional challenge: Sub 24 hours
Average walking time: 16-20 hours
Multiple day completions: Equally valid achievements
Beyond the Challenge
The Welsh 3000s offers more than just a physical challenge. It's an opportunity to:
Experience Welsh mountain culture
Learn about local geology and wildlife
Practice mountain craft
Build confidence for bigger challenges
Create lasting memories
Whether you're a seasoned hill walker or an aspiring mountain enthusiast, the Welsh 3000s represents one of Britain's finest mountain challenges. Success requires respect for the mountains, thorough preparation, and a healthy dose of determination. Remember, while the 24-hour time limit adds spice to the challenge, there's no shame in taking longer. Many hikers split the route over two or three days, allowing time to appreciate the magnificent mountain scenery and rich Welsh mountaineering heritage.
Stay safe, respect the mountains, and enjoy one of the finest mountain challenges Britain has to offer.