Last updated July 2026
Mount Richmond Forest Park is a large DOC-managed forest park spanning the Richmond and Bryant Ranges between Blenheim in Marlborough and Nelson. It offers extensive backcountry tramping opportunities across 166,000 hectares of native forest, alpine herbfields and exposed ridges. The park was gazetted on 4 March 1977 and is named after its highest peak, Mt Richmond at 1,760 m. A network of standard DOC huts supports multi-day circuits and overnight trips, with access from multiple road ends on both sides of the ranges. Trampers must be well prepared for alpine conditions, variable weather and remote terrain.
Practical Information
| Location | Ranges between Blenheim (Marlborough) and Nelson — DOC forest park |
| Area | 166,000 ha |
| Gazetted | 4 March 1977 |
| Use | Multi-day tramping, day walks, backcountry hunting |
| Key huts | Richmond Saddle Hut (8 bunks), Old Man Hut (5 bunks), Mt Fell Hut (6 bunks), Lake Chalice Hut (8 bunks) |
| Hut category | Standard DOC huts — Standard Hut Ticket per night (honesty box) |
| Highest peak | Mt Richmond, 1,760 m |
| Key tracks | Old Man Hut Circuit, Hacket Track, Mt Richmond routes, Lake Chalice tracks |
| Best for | Experienced trampers — backcountry and alpine conditions |
| Cost | Standard Hut Tickets (blue adult, yellow youth) purchased in advance |
About the Park
Mount Richmond Forest Park covers steep, native forest-covered mountain country between Nelson and Blenheim. The Richmond Range forms the backbone, separating the north bank tributaries of the Wairau River from other river systems, with lesser ridges in the western sector. Vegetation ranges from mixed beech and podocarp forest in the valleys to tussock grasses, shrubs and alpine plants on sub-alpine ridges and high rock faces. Lake Chalice, formed by a slip, is a notable feature with only native koaro fish.
The park has a history of gold and chrome mining, timber milling and Māori use of argillite quarries for tools and weapons. European settlement involved farming and later pine plantations for erosion control, with many access roads passing through these areas. Public Access Easements provide foot, bicycle and light vehicle access through some plantation forests, though restrictions may apply for safety or operations.
Access is from multiple road ends on both the Marlborough and Nelson sides, with bus and shuttle options available. Visitors should check road conditions, especially after severe weather, and be equipped for remote travel including sleeping bags, cooking gear, waterproof clothing and extra food. Wasps are a hazard in late summer and autumn.
Main Huts
Richmond Saddle Hut is a standard 8-bunk hut located in a saddle west of Mt Richmond at around 1,200 m. It serves as a key base for summit attempts and lies on circuits linking other huts.
Old Man Hut is a standard 5-bunk hut in a grassy clearing at 1,140 m between Old Man Peak and Mt Rintoul. It was built in 1966 by the New Zealand Forest Service and upgraded in 1997. The hut anchors the popular Old Man Hut Circuit.
Mt Fell Hut is a standard 6-bunk hut positioned just below the bushline at approximately 1,280 m, about 1 km south of the 1,602 m Mt Fell summit. It offers excellent mountain views from an alpine meadow setting.
Lake Chalice Hut is a standard 8-bunk hut near the eastern end of Lake Chalice. It is reached by a benched track and provides a distinctive setting beside the remote alpine lake.
Hut System and Access
All listed huts operate on the standard DOC honesty-box system. Trampers purchase Standard Hut Tickets in advance from DOC visitor centres or online and deposit one ticket per person per night. Tickets are blue for adults and yellow for youth. Huts are first-come, first-served with no online bookings. Road access can be affected by forestry operations or weather, and some routes pass through Public Access Easements with possible restrictions.
What Visitors Often Say
Trampers describe the park as offering rewarding multi-day circuits with spectacular alpine views and quiet, remote huts. Many note the steep climbs, exposed ridges and need for good fitness and navigation skills, especially on routes like the Old Man Hut Circuit or Mt Richmond summit approaches.
Visitors frequently praise the scenic lake setting at Lake Chalice Hut and the mountain vistas from Mt Fell Hut. Comments often highlight the well-maintained tracks in places but stress the importance of checking current conditions and being prepared for changeable weather.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Mount Richmond Forest Park: official page with park overview, access details, alerts and track information.
DOC — Old Man Hut: detailed hut page including history, facilities and access for one of the park’s key overnight stops.
DOC — Mt Fell Hut: official information on facilities, location and current status for this alpine hut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mount Richmond Forest Park?
It lies in the ranges between Blenheim in Marlborough and Nelson, covering the Richmond and Bryant Ranges across both regions.
How large is the park?
The park covers 166,000 hectares and was gazetted on 4 March 1977. It is the second-largest forest park in New Zealand.
What is the height of Mt Richmond?
Mt Richmond reaches 1,760 m and is the namesake peak of the park.
How many bunks does Old Man Hut have?
Old Man Hut has 5 bunks. It was built in 1966 by the New Zealand Forest Service and upgraded in 1997.
What hut tickets are required?
Standard Hut Tickets are needed — one per person per night deposited in the honesty box. Blue tickets are for adults and yellow for youth.
Is the park suitable for beginners?
No — routes involve backcountry conditions, alpine exposure and steep terrain. It is recommended for experienced trampers only.
How do I access the huts?
Access is from multiple road ends on both sides of the ranges. Check current road conditions and forestry operations before travel.
Are there any special access considerations?
Some roads pass through pine plantations with Public Access Easements that may have temporary restrictions. Isolated car parks can be prone to theft.
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