French Ridge hut

Look out for the Bonar Glacier and Mount Aspiring

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Transport and parking:

Plenty of free parking spaces at Raspberry Creek carpark.

Distance from Wanaka:

52 km

Driving time from Wanaka:

60 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

No

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

The only place that could be easy to take a wrong turn would be figuring out where to cross the river (if you choose to do so and the conditions are safe for a river crossing) at Pearl flat. However, once you cross the river, the track leading into the bush and start of climb was well signposted.

Cellphone Coverage:

Non-existent.

Suggested Gear List:

Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions), Gaiters

Availability of Water:

You can fill up with water at Aspiring hut (9-10km) or at French ridge hut at the top of the climb. Any streams upriver of Aspiring Hut are also good to drink from.

Seasonality Issues:

Streams can be more fast flowing and full in spring conditions due to snow melt or after heavy rainfall. Above the bush line you are entering subalpine conditions and into the winter, snow. Be prepared to turn around. High winds also can be an issue. Check the weather before you go and be well prepared.

Hazards:

Take care of the bluffs to the side of the trail above the bush line. Although there is a wide route and it's fairly safe, you should take extreme care (or turn around) in high winds.