The Welsh 3000s Challenge

When we are both in the UK, Chris and I will invariably put our heads together and plan a weekend adventure. In October 2021, I told Chris I wanted something to push me harder than ever before so the Welsh 3000s seemed like the perfect challenge. 

The Welsh 3000s are the 15 peaks standing taller than 3,000 feet in Snowdonia, traversing between Carneddau, Glyderau and Snowdon massif. It’s a popular challenge amongst experienced hikers who push to complete the challenge in under 24 hours, an impressive feat which is sure to provide many ups and downs, literally. 

Spoiler alert: At the summit of Snowdon, the final peak on our challenge

Day 1

12/15 peaks, 39km, 2,766m of elevation, 12 hours of walking 

With a weekend forecast of 2 halves, torrential rain and wind on Saturday followed by a beautiful autumn Sunday, we chose to mix-up the order of the classic Welsh 3000s route. We decided to get the majority of the distance done on day 1 and leave the scramble on Crib Goch for day 2 when it would be safer with light winds, dry rocks and of course, stunning views.

Our challenge started on the Glyderau range and we began by ascending Elidir Fawr. The start of a long hike often feels the hardest as your body is warming up and getting into the swing of things. We proceeded to cross the Glyders whilst in heavy fog which made the fan like rock formations seem even more mystical. Swallowed up in dense fog, I followed Chris’ lead as we weaved in and over boulders to pop out next to the distinct ‘Adam and Eve’ figures, signifying Tryfan’s summit. Whilst on the Glyderau, don’t forget to seek out the unlikely cantilever rock, as well as Adam and Eve, classic photo destinations from Snowdonia. 

Chris taking the leap of faith across Adam and Eve on a previous Tryfan trip

From Tryfan we descended into the Ogwen Valley to climb back out and onto Pen Yr Ole Wen, the first 3000er on the Carnedd range, where we ticked off 7 out of the 15 summits. We were racing against the oncoming darkness which invariably beat us quite spectacularly. Hiking at night yields a totally different feeling as you place less emphasis on what’s to come in the distance and focus more on what is directly in the bubble illuminated by your head torch. Don’t forget spare batteries! 

Just about to finish at 1.30am, feeling like a shell of my former self and looking like I had aged about 40 years

One of the most memorable moments was when we were within a few kilometres of Chris’ van (ie. our home for the night) and we took a direct line through a dense heather patch. Suddenly, it was pelting down with rain and I lost my footing and was swallowed up by the vegetation. We finally arrived back at the van at 1.30am, soaking wet, for a well needed rest before the last push in the morning.

Day 2

3/15 peaks, 15km, 1,097m of elevation, 5 hours of walking 

With aching muscles, but excited to wake up to a beautiful autumn morning, which meant our wet clothes dried quickly, we began the second day on the Snowdon Massif from the Llanberis Pass.  We only had three peaks left after a mammoth day 1. However, the infamous scramble up to Crib Goch still stood in our way. Not for the faint hearted, Chris guided me along the ridge as we took our time to enjoy the dry rock and spectacular views. Taking this route requires care and good conditions. Don’t treat this route lightly, do your research and consider hiring a guide. 

Making our way along Crib Goch enjoying the perfect weather conditions

We felt so lucky to finish the challenge at the summit of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, with perfect panoramic views and no summer crowds. All that was left to do now was to descend. Chris persuaded me that Snowdon's South Ridge, albeit slightly longer, would be worth the extra leg work. It was almost like he had planned the incredible sunset over the Moelwynion that we encountered. 

Magical sunset on the descent via Snowdon’s South ridge

I would definitely recommend the Welsh 3000s for anyone looking for a challenge that’s in the UK and achievable over one to three days. Be prepared for weather changes, sometimes tricky navigation and some scrambling.

Look out for our group trips to do the Welsh 3000s or get in touch to organise your own private trip to take on this challenge!