Entries for TGOC25 are now CLOSED
Entries for TGOC26 will open in October 2025 via this page. Below are details on what skills are required and the entry process.
Step 1: Check your skills
Before entering the TGO Challenge you need to have the following skills:
- Ability to navigate across pathless rugged terrain using digital or analogue map and compass – not be solely reliant on GPS.
- Ability to carry personal and camping equipment and a minimum of 3 days provisions.
- Previous experience of backpacking, including ‘no trace’ camping in a wild environment with no facilities. One of these trips needs to be in the last few years, at least 3 nights long, and walking at least 20km between camps whilst carrying a full pack (can be shorter if over rough ground or significant ascent).
- Capacity to be self-sufficient in remote areas where help may not be easily accessible, including suitable first aid skills.
- Ability to assess and deal with risks and adverse weather (wind, rain and occasionally snow and excessive heat), including crossing unbridged river/burns in spate and other obstacles that present themselves along the way.
All team members, not just the team leader, must have these skills. If you are uncertain about your skills please contact the Coordinators.
Step 2: Read the Terms and Conditions
Even if you have completed multiple crossings, please read the 2025 Terms and Conditions before you apply as some things will have changed. In particular please take note of the withdrawal and cancellation clauses. We try to keep rules to a minimum, but you must agree to abide by those we have. You will be asked to confirm you have read and accepted the Terms and Conditions at the end of Entry Form.
You can also read the 2025 Event Details before entering, which give information about the event and advice on how to plan and present your route.
Step 3: Complete the Entry Form and Pay
If this will be your first Challenge, you will be asked for details of your walking experience which the Coordinators will assess. If you have entered before, but not yet completed a crossing, you still need to provide this information in full again. Very occasionally we have to ask new applicants to gain more experience before participating. If you are part of a group, you will be asked for the names of your companions and your group leader so the Coordinators can put you into a team. Each team member must complete their own form. You can find a YouTube video on Filling in the Entry Form here including advice on the information needed for the Experience Form section. You can find the Experience Form questions here.
Entries will open on:
- Late September for those with guaranteed places. This include vetters, volunteers, Challengers planning their 10th, 20th or 30th crossings. Anyone in these groups will be invited to apply by email. Any walking partners may also apply at this time.
- Early October for everyone else on a first-come-first-served basis.
The entry fee will be requested (where relevant) during the entry process. Anyone the Coordinators assess as not having suitable skills or experience will be refunded promptly and fully. Once places are filled any further entrants will be given the chance to go on the reserve list.
Once entries open, you will be able to access the entry form via the button below.