The Lakeland 3000's in 24 Hours Challenge with Professional Mountain Leaders

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There are 4 mountains in the Lake District that stand over 3000ft and they are Skiddaw, Helvellyn, Scafell and Scafell Pike. Many people have had great days out on each of these mountains individually, or even taken a few days to climb them consecutively. The Lakeland 3000's in 24 hours is one of the toughest endurance challenges the Lake District has to offer as you will aim to walk a total of 45 miles between these 4 great mountains in under 24 hours.

We can't emphasise enough that the Lakeland 3000's is an extremely tough challenge, which is best suited to people who have completed other challenges such as the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, the Lakeland 24 Peaks or the National 3 Peaks Challenge. This challenge can also be completed over the course of 2-3 days should you not want to have such an intense challenge. 

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Terrain: Rough & Rocky   Duration: Approx. 24 Hours of Continuous Walking     

Route Stats: Miles - 45  Ascent - 3350m.      Start Location: Keswick

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The event starts in Keswick and our first objective is the giant bulk of Skiddaw, the smallest of the four 3000ft peaks. We use the steep tourist track to make quick progress to the summit which will be reached right on time for sunset. After enjoying the sun dropping beyond Solway Coast we will retrace our steps back down the same path and in to Keswick. This event is supported by a vehicle, and so as we reach Keswick it is our first opportunity to change any clothes, pick up some snacks and get ready for the next leg.

Now under darkness we head south down the Borrowdale valley and in the midnight  hours we reach the hamlet of Rosthwaite. Upon reaching Rosthwaite you will again meet the vehicle, at which a warm meal will be served, and of course clothing can be changed if needed. We now start our approach into the central fells, with Scafell being our next objective. The corridor route is used as dawn breaks to ascend the hillside in a not too sustained fashion. The Scafell Pike terrace path is used and we will then ascend Scafell - the second highest mountain in England. Again we retrace our steps back to Mickledore and then ascend the final slopes on to the summit of Scafell Pike.

After enjoying the views and taking a well earned rest on the summit possibly the hardest part of the whole challenge now awaits. Paths are used to contour around the boulder strewn peaks of Broad Crag, Ill Crag and Great End. From Esk Hause we drop to Angle Tarn and then start our long approach to the summit of High Raise. This tough grassy ascent is a real leg burner but the top of the hill does come eventually. Continuing eastwards the route drops across boggy terrain and down the Wythburn Valley. When we hit the road we are met by the vehicle for the final time. Warm rolls are served and time will be taken to sort kit, change shoes and prepare for the final peak - Helvellyn. 

The course doesn't let up at this stage as the ascent of Helvellyn via Wythburn is still nice and steep! After about 90 minutes of ascent the summit of Helvellyn is reached. With the four peaks in the bag it is now time to finish the circuit and head for Keswick. The path from Thirlspot offers a quick descent to the road which is then easily followed a final 6 miles back to the start. It's a pretty epic challenge not to be underestimated, but it is well worth it for sure!