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Inchbonnie-Kumara Road, near Mitchells
9.4 km
8 hours
1115 metres
If you are looking for a trail that truly captures the rugged, untamed spirit of the West Coast, look no further than the Mount French Track. Located near Mitchells on the eastern side of the iconic Lake Brunner, this isn’t your average Sunday stroll. It is a classic New Zealand "grunt"—a steep, challenging, and exhilarating climb that will test your lungs and your leggings in equal measure. But for those who persevere, the reward is one of the most spectacular panoramas in the South Island.
At 9.4km return with a whopping 1115 metres of elevation gain, the Mount French Track is classified as an advanced tramping track. It is the kind of walk where you earn every single view, transitioning from ancient podocarp forests to sub-alpine shrublands and finally onto exposed ridges that feel like the top of the world. Whether you are a local West Coaster looking for a fitness challenge or a tourist wanting to escape the crowds and see the Southern Alps in all their glory, this trail delivers a raw and authentic wilderness experience.
The journey begins just off the Kumara-Inchbonnie Road. From the moment you step off the tarmac, the mountain makes its intentions clear. The lower section of the track winds through lush, lowland rimu forest. It is incredibly atmospheric—damp, green, and smelling of rich earth and moss. As you climb, you’ll notice the forest composition changing; the mighty rimu give way to the hauntingly beautiful kaikawaka (New Zealand cedar) and silver pine.
Don’t get too distracted by the greenery, though. The track quickly earns its reputation as a "serious grunt." This isn’t a groomed gravel path; it’s a traditional tramping track. You can expect to navigate over twisted roots, climb up steep embankments, and occasionally haul yourself up using sturdy branches. It’s a physical, full-body experience that requires careful footing, especially if the West Coast’s famous rain has recently paid a visit.
As you approach the 1000-metre mark, the tall timber begins to thin out. You’ll find yourself moving through a transition zone of mixed tussock and dracophyllum (turpentine scrub), which signals your arrival above the bushline. This is where the landscape opens up, but the challenge remains. The path along the ridge can be narrow, rocky, and slippery. In some sections, you might even find yourself on all fours to navigate the more rugged outcrops.
Parking is available by the side of the Kumara-Inchbonnie Road, opposite the trailhead, with enough space for several vehicles.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
Offering a refined, seasonal two-course lunch and three-course dinner, this lodge restaurant focuses on local produce in a relaxed, communal setting. Reservations are essential for non-guests.
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Out and back
Once you emerge onto the exposed ridges, the world expands. The final push to the summit of Mount French (1305m) is a heart-pumper, but as the ground levels out, the sheer scale of the landscape takes your breath away. You are standing on a natural balcony overlooking the entire Lake Brunner basin, with the jagged spine of the Southern Alps cutting across the horizon to the east and the Tasman Sea shimmering in the far west.
The absolute standout of this hike is the summit panorama. From the 1305m peak, you get a 360-degree view that few other tracks in the region can match. The deep blue of Lake Brunner (Kotuku Whakaoka) looks like a fallen piece of sky nestled among the dark green hills.
Another highlight is the botanical transition. It is fascinating to watch the flora change so dramatically over the course of a few hours. The ancient kaikawaka trees, with their spiralling bark and prehistoric appearance, are a particular favourite for photographers.
For those who love a bit of "rock hopping," the upper ridges offer fantastic geological interest. The weathered greywacke formations and the hardy alpine plants clinging to the crevices make for some incredible close-up shots. And, of course, there is the sense of isolation. Unlike the more famous Great Walks, you are likely to have long stretches of the Mount French Track entirely to yourself, allowing for a deep connection with the silence of the mountains.
The trailhead is located on the Kumara-Inchbonnie Road, approximately 1.5km from the small settlement of Mitchells. If you are coming from Greymouth or Hokitika, follow the signs toward Lake Brunner and Moana.
Parking: There isn’t a formal paved car park, but there is a wide gravel shoulder directly opposite the trailhead with enough space for several vehicles. Be sure to tuck your car well off the road, as this can be a busy route for local logging trucks and milk tankers. The track entrance is clearly marked with a standard Department of Conservation (DOC) sign.
The West Coast is a haven for native birdlife, and the Mount French Track is no exception. As you start in the lowland forest, keep an ear out for the melodious song of the Bellbird (Korimako) and the rhythmic "woosh-woosh" of the Kererū (New Zealand pigeon) as they fly between the fruit-bearing trees.
Tūī are common here, often seen darting through the canopy, while the friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka) will likely follow you for the first kilometre, hoping your boots stir up a few tasty insects.
Once you break out into the sub-alpine zone, keep your eyes on the sky. The Kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, is an occasional visitor to these heights. They are highly intelligent and inquisitive, often appearing just as you sit down for lunch at the summit. Remember to never feed them, no matter how much they "beg"! You may also spot a Weka scurrying through the tussock—these cheeky, flightless birds are famously bold, so keep a close eye on your sandwich.
The Mount French Track is open year-round, but each season brings its own set of rules:
The Lake Brunner area holds deep significance for Poutini Ngāi Tahu, the guardians of the West Coast. Historically, this region was a vital part of the pounamu (greenstone) trails, where Māori travelled through the mountain passes to trade this precious stone. The lake itself, Kotuku Whakaoka, is named after the white heron, a bird of great spiritual importance.
In more recent colonial history, the area around Inchbonnie and Mitchells was shaped by the timber and gold industries. You can still feel that pioneer spirit in the air—the sense of people working alongside a powerful and often unpredictable natural environment. Today, much of the area is protected as part of the Department of Conservation estate, ensuring that the ancient forests of Mount French remain untouched for future generations.
After 8 hours on your feet and over 1000 metres of climbing, you will have worked up a massive appetite. Fortunately, there are some fantastic local spots to refuel:
The Mount French Track is a challenging undertaking, but it offers a profound sense of accomplishment. Standing at the summit, looking out over the wild West Coast, you’ll understand exactly why we call this place paradise.
Gallirallus australis
Flightless rail known for bold, inquisitive behaviour. Found mainly in the South Island and some offshore islands.
Best time: Year-round
Nestor notabilis
Intelligent alpine parrot endemic to the South Island. Known for curiosity and problem-solving abilities.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
1.5km away
A historic hotel from the 1930s in Moana, offering a hearty menu with local favourites like beer-battered fish and venison, perfect for a post-hike meal and a drink.
17km away
Located in historic Kumara, this fully restored gold miners' hotel provides welcoming West Coast hospitality, serving fresh local produce by a log fire or on the veranda.