Hiking to Frenchridge Hut

In June 2024 we made a trip to Frenchridge Hut after we had to change our initial plan of reaching the Cascade Saddle. This was a three day trip where we walked a lot through the Matukituki Valley, climbed up spurs and explored snowy ridge above Frenchridge Hut going up to the Quarterdeck Pass.

Michael Beckmann

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Instagram Story Highlights and Behind The Scenes

Start / Finish

This out-and-back adventure begins and ends at the Raspberry Flat car park, the gateway to the West Matukituki Valley. Located an hour's drive from Wanaka, the last part of the road is gravel, and you'll encounter several ford crossings that can become impassable after heavy rain.

Season

While we experienced winter conditions in June 2024, summer offers a more accessible track with no snow.

Maps / Info

For the latest conditions and avalanche information, consult the Tititea / Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre. Remember, the track traverses avalanche-prone areas, so staying informed is crucial.

Campsites / Huts

We stayed at Mt Aspiring Hut and Frenchridge Hut, both managed by DOC but owned by NZAC. Note that DOC hut passes are not valid for these huts.

Food / Water

Both huts collect rainwater, but the quality can vary. During our visit, the French Ridge Hut's water tank was contaminated (due to a dead animal in it), forcing us to melt snow.

While there are opportunities to refill water bottles from the river, be cautious of potential contamination from livestock.

The section to Frenchridge Hut lacks water sources, so carry sufficient water.

Route / Conditions

The initial section to Mt Aspiring Hut can be cycled, reducing travel time.

Most of the hike follows marked tracks, except for the exploration above French Ridge Hut.

The Cascade Saddle is a challenging route, steep, slippery, and exposed, requiring experience and caution.

Winter conditions can significantly impact the track, with snow and ice making navigation tricky and increasing avalanche risk, especially above the treeline.

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Day 1

After work, we headed to the Raspberry Flat car park and cycled towards Mt Aspiring Hut. With our headlamps guiding the way, we arrived at the hut, prepared dinner, and turned in for the night.

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Day 2

Our initial plan was to summit Mt Tyndall via the Cascade Saddle. However, as we ascended the saddle, rain turned to snow, and the increasing depth and steepness of the terrain, coupled with unmarked paths, forced us to turn back towards Mt Aspiring Hut.

We returned to the hut mid-afternoon and thought about our plans for the following days.

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Day 3

We set off at 6 AM with our plan being French Ridge Hut. Leaving Mt Aspiring Hut, the hike follows a well-maintained track along the valley floor. When you’re at the spur that leads up to French Ridge, you have to cross the river. Instead of getting wet feet, we opted for the 15-minute detour via the bridge.

The ascent to French Ridge Hut is similar to the Brewster Hut hike, but with slightly more technical sections. As we left the treeline, the rocks became icy and slippery, eventually giving way to knee-deep snow. We reached the hut around lunchtime and spent the afternoon exploring the area above the hut, towards Quaterdeck Pass. The stunning views of the valley and the picturesque red hut against the snowy backdrop made for some insane pictures.

Do make sure to bring enough clothes with you, as it did get cold in this hut overnight. There is no fireplace so you have to bring enough layers with you!

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Day 4

With the weather turning unfavourable, we opted for a straightforward walkout. We retraced our steps to Mt Aspiring Hut and then cycled back to the car park.Looking back at a very satisfying trip.

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