How to play TriPeaks Solitaire
TriPeaks is the fastest, most streak-happy game in the solitaire family. Twenty-eight cards form three peaks, and you tear them down by playing any exposed card that sits one rank above or below the waste card - with ranks wrapping around, so Ace chains onto King and back again.
Just want the rules? Read the complete TriPeaks rulebook.
- Exposed cards - the bottom row starts open and face up; covered cards lie face down and flip over the moment both cards on top of them are cleared.
- The free first move - the waste starts empty, so any open card (or a stock flip) begins the game.
- Chains - a 6 on the waste takes a 5 or a 7; then that 7 takes an 8; the 8 takes a 9…
- The stock - 24 cards, one flip at a time, no recycling. When it's gone, it's gone.
- Winning - clear all 28 peak cards; leftover stock doesn't matter.
Strategy tips for longer streaks
- Look two plays ahead before taking a card. When both a 5 and a 7 are playable on your 6, check which one keeps the chain going.
- Favor plays that free the peaks. A play that uncovers a new card is worth more than one that doesn't - prioritize the higher rows.
- Attack all three peaks evenly. A lone untouched peak late in the game needs its own run of luck; spread the destruction.
- Count your outs. Four of each rank exist. If three 8s are gone, plans that need an 8 deserve suspicion.
- Use undo to audition chains. Trying a line and backing out costs nothing and teaches you the layout.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play TriPeaks Solitaire?
Twenty-eight cards form three peaks; the ten bottom-row cards are open and face up, while covered cards stay face down until they are uncovered. The waste starts empty, so your first move is free - play any open card, or flip the first of the 24 stock cards. After that, play any exposed card that is one rank above or below the waste card - an exposed 7 plays on a 6 or an 8. When nothing plays, turn a new card from the stock. Clear all three peaks before the stock runs out to win.
Does Ace connect to King in TriPeaks?
Yes - ranks wrap around, so an Ace plays on a King and a King plays on an Ace. Long chains like Q-K-A-2 are the heart of the game.
What is a streak in TriPeaks?
Every board card you play without drawing from the stock extends your streak. Streaks are the mark of good play: strong players routinely chain 6 or more cards from a single stock flip.
Are most TriPeaks deals winnable?
Yes - roughly 90% of TriPeaks deals can be won with careful play, which makes it one of the friendliest solitaire variants. The skill is in choosing WHICH of two playable cards to take, to keep chains alive.
Can I play TriPeaks offline or on my phone?
The game runs entirely in your browser and works on phones, tablets and desktops. Your game in progress is saved automatically, so you can close the tab and pick up where you left off.
More free card games
Like the pace? Try Golf Solitaire, TriPeaks' single-row cousin with the same turn-the-corner chains, the pair-matching puzzle Pyramid Solitaire, or the classic Klondike Solitaire.