Mount Richmond Alpine Route
Route
Getting there
Private transport
Most trampers start from the Hacket road-end, 29 km south of Nelson and walk through to Starveall Hut to begin the Alpine Route. From Tarn Hut, they complete the trip by descending to either Wairoa road-end, inland from Wakefield, or to the Goulter road-end, on the north bank of the Wairau River.
Alternatively, it is possible to complete the Alpine Route as a round trip from the Lee Valley road-end, inland from Brightwater.
The Alpine Route is also accessible on tracks from the Goulter River, Lake Chalice, or via the Pelorus River.
Public transport
From Nelson, trampers transport services operate. Unfortunately this type of service is not available from Blenheim.
About the area
Mount Richmond Forest Park comprises most of the steep native forest-covered mountain country between Nelson and Blenheim as well as areas of commercially forested pine plantations on public land.
Description
The Alpine Route is a challenging trip above the bushline in Mt Richmond Forest Park, which offers outstanding views over the Waimea Plans, toward Kahurangi and Abel Tasman National Parks, and to the rugged hills of South Marlborough and the Inland Kaikoura Ranges.
It is only suitable for experienced and well equipped groups. There is little or no formed track in many places, the terrain is steep and rugged and good fitness and navigation skills are needed.
Activities
Hunting
Hunting is encouraged in the park. All hunters must have a DOC permit. For a permit contact the Nelson Regional Visitor centre or one of the Area offices in the Nelson/Marlborough conservancy.
Places to stay
This is a standard 6-bunk hut in the Motueka area.
This is a standard 6-bunk hut in the Motueka area.
This is a standard 5-bunk hut in the South Marlborough area.
This is a standard 5-bunk hut in the South Marlborough area.
This is a standard 6-bunk hut in the South Marlborough area.
You need backcountry hut tickets or a backcountry hut pass to stay in the huts. One ticket is required per night.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a route:
- Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking
- Track unformed and natural, rough, muddy or very steep
- Suitable for people with above average fitness. High level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required
- Complete self sufficiency required
- Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings
- Sturdy tramping/hiking boots required
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