Mt Richmond routes
Located in Mount Richmond Forest Park in the Marlborough region
Introduction
These tracks provide access to Mt Richmond (1760 m) and can be combined for weekend round trip.28.5 km full circuit
Seasonal restrictions
Forestry operations in the area can close roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park. Check the status of roads into Mount Richmond Forest Park.
Dog access
Combine these tracks to make a good weekend round trip via Mt Richmond Saddle Hut. Note, the road ends at Timms Creek and Jacksons Road are 17 km apart.
Timms Creek Route
Te Rou Road to Mt Fell Hut
Time: 6–7 hr
Distance: 12.8 km
From the Timms Creek car park on Te Rou Road, a walking track goes up the true right of the creek for one hour to a flat area ideal for picnicking or swimming.
From here a marked route leads up to Mt Fell Hut.
Mt Fell Hut to Richmond Saddle Hut
Time: 3–4 hr
Distance: 5.2 km
From Mt Fell Hut a poled route traverses tussock tops and rock along the Richmond Range.
Walk 10 minutes up towards the ridge. Follow the poles along the ridge to a sidle under Johnstons Peak and through Devils Armchair to Mt Richmond (1760 m). There are guaranteed amazing views on a fine day. Parts of the climb to Mt Richmond will be rocky and steep as with the descent of 560 m from the summit to Richmond Saddle Hut.
Richmond Saddle Route
Top Valley Road to Richmond Saddle Hut
Time: 6 hr
Distance: 10.5 km
Just before Jubilee Flat on Top Valley Road is Jackson Creek Road. Jackson Creek Road crosses Top Valley Stream and climbs for 2 hours (4 km) to a prominent ridge. A marked route leads up this ridge to Richmond Saddle Hut, one hour below the summit of Mt Richmond.
It's possible to climb to Mt Richmond (1760 m) in a day but a good level of fitness is essential.
Te Rou Road: 5 km north of Renwick, just over the Wairau River bridge, turn off SH6 onto Northbank Road. Follow this for 31 km then turn into Te Rou Road. Timms Creek car park is at the end of the road.
Top Valley Road: 5 km north of Renwick, just over the Wairau River bridge, turn off SH6 onto Northbank Road. Follow this for 33 km then turn into Top Valley Road. Follow Top Valley Road for 7 km to Jubilee Flat. 4WD vehicles can ford Top Valley Stream here and drive the 4 km up Jackson Creek Road.
Make sure you have enough experience for your trip. Always fill in hut books and ensure someone knows your intentions.
Hazards
- Snow, wind and fog are hazards of the open tops – you will need the skill to tramp in these conditions. Check the Mount Richmond weather forecast to prepare.
- Water should be carried in dry conditions – there is a river/creek at the bottom but this water becomes scarce further up, especially in summer.
- Water in the park may not be safe to drink. If you doubt the safety of any water source, you should boil, filter or chemically treat it.
- Bad weather can occur at any time - be prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and extra food.
- Wasps are common from December until April. Carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.
Rivers and streams
In normal flows unbridged streams and rivers can be crossed. However, in flood they can become impassable and you will need to be prepared to wait until flood waters recede.
Stay safe when crossing rivers
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop - which often takes a few hours after rain.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Take the right gear for your trip: Walking and tramping gear lists.
- Tell a trusted person your plans and when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Send them the information directly, or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Land Safety Code.
Contacts
| Whakatū / Nelson Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 3 546 9339 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa 79 Trafalgar Street Nelson 7010 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 5 Nelson 7042 |
| Full office details | |