In Nelson we are spoiled for choice with overnight/weekend hikes.; The trip up to the summit of Mount Richmond is no exception, and should be on the tramping bucket list of every local! And even better, this hike is dog friendly!
Though just “over the hill” in Mount Richmond Forest Park, the trailhead is a decent 2 hour drive over the Whangamoas to the North Bank of the Wairoa River.
Let’s look at some route options:
Richmond Saddle Hut
11km, 1782m elevation gain
If you have a 4WD, you can shave 3.5km and 300m of climbing off your walk by following Jacksons Creek Road up to the carpark - river crossings required! The track follows the river up through beautiful beech forest before reaching a prominent ridge where the climb really starts! Follow a marked route up the ridge to reach Richmond Saddle Hut (8 bunks), approximately 4 hours total. It is possible to reach Mount Richmond summit in one day, but good fitness is required as it is another 1.5 hours of arduous climbing. Or if weather permits, there’s always the option to camp near the summit!
Timms Creek Route
12.8km, 1860m elevation gain
If you’d like to have the option of also summiting Mount Fell, park at the end of Timms Road and head up Timms Creek Track. 2 hours in, the grunty 900m climb kicks off! Take your time and enjoy the gorgeous beech forest. Mt Fell Hut (6 bunk) is located at 1280m and is perfectly situated to catch an epic sunrise! Mt Richmond summit is another 2-ish hours from the hut - expect rock scrambling and incredible views of Mt Fishtail and all the way down to Tasman Bay! Mt Fell is a short 2km jaunt along the escarpment from the hut, and well-worth ticking off the list while you’re up there.
