HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics // Comparison Engine
Route A

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

argentina/mendoza
VS
Route B

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

united-kingdom/Yorkshire Dales

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) vs The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge: Intensity Score Comparison

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) is unequivocally more demanding overall (+16 points). While The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a serious endeavor, Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) pushes the limits further, particularly regarding sustained physical exertion.

Model-based (not a field report) · Evaluates overall route demand, not danger.

Intensity Difference
+16 Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing) is harder
Higher Physical Load
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Higher Technical Seriousness
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
Greater Commitment
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)wins 7 of 9 metrics
7
Route A
2
Route B
argentina/mendoza

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

Following the historic path used by the Army of the Andes in 1817, this 6-day trans-Andean expedition traverses the central cordillera from Mendoza, Argentina, to the Cajón del Maipo in Chile. The route crosses two significant high-altitude barriers—Portillo Argentino (4,330m) and Paso Piuquenes (4,030m). Hikers move through a high desert landscape of volcanic rock, vast glacial valleys, and the powerful Tunuyán River. The terrain consists primarily of rocky mountain paths, loose scree on the steeper pass approaches, and high-altitude plateaus where exposure to wind and sun is constant.

united-kingdom/Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

The Yorkshire Three Peaks is one of Britain’s quintessential endurance challenges. Walkers attempt to scale the peaks of Pen-y-ghent (694m), Whernside (736m), and Ingleborough (723m) in a continuous 38.6km (24-mile) loop, traditionally within 12 hours. Set against the stunning limestone scenery of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the route takes you over vast moorlands, past the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, and through charming stone villages like Horton-in-Ribblesdale. It is a severe test of physical stamina and mental fortitude, but the camaraderie on the trail and the beauty of the Dales make it an unforgettable achievement.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
77 WINNER
61
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
79 WINNER
61
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
55
WINNER66
DistanceLonger route
110 km WINNER
38.6 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
3,200 m WINNER
1,585 m
Highest PointHigher summit
4,330 m WINNER
736 m
DurationShorter commitment
6 days
WINNER1 days
Hazard Level
EXTREME // LETHAL
EXTREME // LETHAL
Crowd LevelLess crowded
1 / 5 WINNER
5 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
5 / 5 WINNER
2 / 5

HikeMetrics Hazard Scale — Explanation

1
LOW // ACCESS
2
STANDARD // RT
3
MODERATE // CHLG
4
EXPERT // HAZARD
5
EXTREME // LETHAL

The HikeMetrics Hazard Scale is a proprietary 5-point classification system that evaluates hiking routes across five dimensions: physical demand, technical complexity, altitude exposure, weather risk, and rescue accessibility.

Unlike generic star ratings, the Hazard Scale is calibrated against altitude profiles, elevation gain per day, and logistical isolation factors — making it the most precise route classification system available.

Full Scale Documentation
Route A // Hazard Verdict
Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
EXTREME // LETHAL
acclimatization_and_ams: Prolonged exposure above 4,000m poses a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
river_crossings: The Tunuyán River involves significant water volume and current strength, particularly in the afternoon.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
EXTREME // LETHAL
extreme exhaustion blisters: Walking 38km in 12 hours over rough terrain will inevitably test your feet, calves, and knees to their absolute limits.
darkness and navigation: Many walkers misjudge their pace and end up descending the final peak (often Ingleborough) in the dark, leading to disorientation.

Required Gear Comparison

Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)
Sturdy mountain boots with high ankle supportThermal system rated for temperatures down to -15°CHigh-performance wind and sun protectionTrekking poles for loose scree descentsPassport and necessary travel documents for border transit
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
Well-worn, comfortable hiking boots (Categories B)Waterproof jacket and overtrousersHigh-calorie food (malt loaf, jelly babies, mixed nuts)Headtorch (often required, even in summer)OS Explorer Map OL2 and compass

Compare with Other Routes

argentina
Huemul Circuit
EXTREME // LETHAL
argentina
Nahuel Huapi Traverse (4 Refugios)
EXTREME // LETHAL
austria
Berliner Höhenweg — The Zillertal High-Route
EXTREME // LETHAL
australia
Larapinta Trail
EXTREME // LETHAL
belize
Victoria Peak Trail
EXTREME // LETHAL
bolivia
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
EXTREME // LETHAL