Introduction to the Welsh 3000s
The Welsh 3000s Challenge involves reaching the
peaks of each of the fifteen mountains in Wales which are over 3000 feet
high. Most would attempt the Welsh 3000s in 24 hours, although more experienced
walkers and fell runners may attempt the challenge within 12 hours. The record time
stands at 4 hours 19 minutes.
Climber heading along the Crib Goch ridge.
The Welsh 3000s takes in around 25 miles of mountain walking, and given the
relatively complicated route, is a more advanced challenge than the
Yorkshire Three Peaks, or indeed the
National Three Peaks Challenge.
The Welsh 3000s is also known as the 14 peaks or 15 peaks, as
Garnedd Uchaf is sometimes not included. Technically it's peak it over
3000 feet, although it appears as little more than a bump on the ridge between Foel Grach and Foel Fras.
More recently, a potential addition to the Welsh 3000s has been named, possibly
making this the 16th peak. Castell y Gwynt in the Glyderau, at
a hight of 3,189 ft, with a prominence of just over 50 ft from its connecting bwlch
with Glyder Fach.