The Peaks Challenge Falls Creek (formerly 3 Peaks Challenge) is a challenging cycling event held in the Australian Alps region of Victoria in March each year.
It was launched by Bicycle Network in 2010, and aims to provide cyclists with one of the world’s toughest and most picturesque cycling challenges through Victoria’s Alpine region.
Starting and finishing at Falls Creek, the 235 km route incorporates more than 4,400 vertical metres with three major climbs – Tawonga Gap, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. With climbs comparable to a stage in the Tour de France, riders must complete the circuit within 13 hours to receive a "Finisher’s Jersey". In 2013 a special jersey was introduced to recognise those cyclists who complete the event within 10 hours.
The cycling challenge attracts cyclists from around the world including countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, United States, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
The event seeks to create the unique, "European-style" cycling experience that riders could not undertake without Bicycle Network’s support; showcasing the region and furthering Bicycle Network’s mission of “more people cycling more often”.
Event entry includes a controlled seeded wave start (descent down Falls Creek) with timed climbs, 85 km of road closures, mobile support teams – lead vehicle, SAG wagon, motorcycle marshals, mechanical support, seven rest areas with food, medical and mechanical support, post-ride food and celebration, food and clothing valet service.
The former fastest time ever at Peaks Challenge Falls Creek was set by Australian cyclist Ben Dyball in 2019, finishing with a time of 7:02:57.[1] In 2024, Australian cyclist Mark O'Brien set the new course record - finishing in 6:43:13,[2] becoming the first sub 7 finisher of the Peaks Challenge. The Strava segment can be found here.