Description

This year the Otago Section will return to French Ridge Hut, the site of the first mid-winter Christmas trip in recent history. We will retrace those early explorers from 2008 by driving to the road end after work on Friday and walking to Aspiring Hut for the night. On Saturday we will continue the tradition by carrying far too much food, Christmas decorations, and a Secret Santa present up to the hut for our festivities. Sunday will offer a possible climb of Mt French, before returning to our cars and to Dunedin.

Getting There

We will organize shared transport from Dunedin. You will be required to pay your share of the petrol costs, which you are to negotiate with the driver.

What to Expect

A very detailed description of the track and hut is here: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/otago/places/mount-aspiring-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/french-ridge-track/

Possible Hazards

Gear

It's winter... its cold! Warm layers will be essential. There is more than likely to be snow on the track, requiring good boots. If you are interested in climbing Mount French, crampons and ice axe will be essential. I will determine closer to date if we will all need to take crampons and ice axes, but it is likely we will, looking at the future forecasts!