Welcome to the Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge! We've compiled answers to some of the most common questions to help you prepare for the day.
General Information
WHAT IS THE GOLSPIE 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE?
The Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge is a fun event that involves summiting three prominent peaks around the village of Golspie in the Scottish Highlands: Ben Horn, Ben Bhraggie and Silver Rock. You can take part in one of three categories: Hike, Run or Bike & Hike. It's a challenging but rewarding day, offering stunning views and a great sense of accomplishment.
WHEN DOES THE CHALLENGE TAKE PLACE?
The date for 2026 is to be confirmed. In 2025 the Challenge took place on Saturday 31st May.
WHERE DOES THE CHALLENGE START AND FINISH?
Registration for all participants takes place at Golspie Seafront Centre.
Hike or Run - Start: Base of Ben Horn, Finish: Golspie Seafront Centre. Please select when booking if transport is required.
Bike & Hike - Start + Finish: Golspie Seafront Centre.
WHAT IS THE TOTAL DISTANCE OF THE CHALLENGE?
Hike or Run: 13 miles / 21km
Bike & Hike: 19 miles / 30.5km
HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CHALLENGE?
The Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge requires a reasonable level of fitness and participants should be prepared to be self-supported. There are marshalls at strategic points and limited water stations throughout the route.
IS THE CHALLENGE SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS?
The route is well way-marked and there is no specific time limit set for challenge participants so beginners should manage very well on the Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge.
CAN WE ENTER AS A GROUP OR FAMILY AND IS THE CHALLENGE FAMILY FRIENDLY?
We welcome groups and families to Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge. There must be a minimum of 3 people to form a group and the group will be given a joint time based on the last group member to finish. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
WHAT TROPHY CATEGORIES ARE THERE?
We will have more information on trophy categories coming soon.
Equipment
WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME ON THE DAY?
- Registration confirmation
- Liability Waiver (if not already sent)
- Money for BBQ and refreshments
- Fully charged mobile phone
- Clothing & footwear suitable for hill environment
- Water
- Snacks & Lunch
- Personal first aid kit
- Bike & helmet (participants in the Bike & Hike Challenge)
Logistics and Safety
IS THE ROUTE MARKED?
The route is fully marked with arrows and way-markers with marshalls at summits and major junctions. There is a route map available online and on the day and a route briefing will be given to all participants.
WILL THERE BE CHECKPOINTS ALONG THE ROUTE?
Yes, there are designated checkpoints at each summit where you will be required to provide your entrant number for safety and monitoring purposes. If you do not complete each summit checkpoint you MUST report this to the finish line for safety reasons.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN'T COMPLETE THE CHALLENGE?
There will be marshalls available to assist participants. If you need to withdraw, inform a marshal at a checkpoint and report to the finish line at Golspie Seafront Centre for safety purposes.
ARE DOGS ALLOWED?
We allow dogs on the Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge providing they are kept on a lead at all times and are not proving a safety hazard to any other competitors. Please contact us if you require transport for you and your dog to the start line and we will do our best to accommodate you.
IS THERE PARKING AVAILABLE?
Parking is available at the King George V Playpark and will be signposted from the main road on the morning of the event. Any vehicles and contents are left at the liability of the owner.
ARE THERE TOILET FACILITIES AVAILABLE?
There are toilets available at Golspie Seafront Centre but there are no facilities en-route throughout the challenge. We expect all participants to adhere to Leave No Trace principles regarding personal hygiene and litter.
CAN I USE AN E-BIKE?
We welcome e-bikes to the Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge and just ask you to let us know during registration or in advance of the event.
Registration and Fees
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR THE CHALLENGE?
Registration is done online through the event website and payment must be made online. Up to 4 people can be entered at one time through registration.
IS THERE A REFUND POLICY?
Please contact us as soon as possible if you are unable to attend the event after registering. We do not normally offer a refund if you cancel your place within 30 days prior to the event.
CAN I RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY?
Yes, several participants use the challenge as an opportunity to raise funds for their chosen charities.
Contact Information
WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION?
For any further questions, please contact the event organisers via the following email (replacing *** with @): golspie3peaks***gmail.com
We hope this FAQ page helps you prepare for the Golspie 3 Peaks Challenge. Good luck, and enjoy the adventure!