NOTE: This trip has been cancelled, due to an unfavourable weather forecast.  It is hoped that the trip can be run later in the year, possibly over the summer months.  A revised date will be notified as soon as possible.

French Ridge Hut is operated by NZ Alpine Club and is located above the West Matukituki Valley, west of Wanaka.  The hut sits at 1480 metres, just below the summer snowline (1500 m at this location), is located in a sub-alpine zone and offers spectacular views.  It is accessed by a track described by DoC as steep and “challenging”.  Hut fees are $40 per head per night, payable to NZAC.

The route to the hut starts at the Raspberry Creek carpark in the West Matukituki Valley.  The valley floor is followed for 3.5 to 4 hours to Pearl Flat.  After crossing the river (ford or swing bridge) it is another 2.5 to 3.5 hours up the steep ridge track to reach the hut.  This section of the track can be treacherous if conditions are either windy, wet or snowy, so the trip will not take place unless conditions are suitable.  (Ben, the trip organiser will be checking with DoC in Wanaka beforehand so that an informed decision can be made on this.)  From the carpark to the hut the walking distance is 16.2 km.

At this stage exact travelling details have not been finalised.  However, it is likely that those taking will depart Timaru late afternoon or early evening on Friday 9 May, camp overnight at Raspberry Flat, then walk up the valley and to the hut the next day.  After one night at the hut the next day will be spent returning to Raspberry Flat then home.

This trip will take you to a very scenic area and take you through a variety of terrain – river flats, bush and a steep ridge.  It will be suitable only for those with sufficient ability, fitness and experience of the conditions likely to be encountered.  If you are considering this trip you need to contact the organiser, Ben, to find out more information and discuss your suitability.

Grade: Difficult

Organiser: Ben  027 3880671