Frenchman Peak Trail (3km)

Located in Cape Le Grand National Park, the Frenchman Peak Trail offers a challenging 3-kilometer (return) hike rewarded with stunning panoramic views. The trail takes approximately 2 hours to complete and is rated as grade 5, meaning it's a steep and demanding climb.

The peak itself is part of an impressive chain formed by massive outcrops of granite and gneiss, sculpted by over 600 million years of erosion and Earth's crust movements. Caves and tunnels found within these peaks are believed to be remnants of a time when sea levels were much higher, around 40 million years ago.

In 1870, explorer John Forrest and his brother, surveyor Alexander Forrest, passed through this area. Alexander named the peak "Frenchman Peak" due to its resemblance to a figure wearing a Frenchman's cap. The traditional Aboriginal name for the peak is Mandooboornup.

Starting from the Cape Le Grand National Park carpark, the trail follows an east-facing slope, offering a gradual incline. It's crucial to stick to the designated path and avoid shortcuts, as the granite rock can be deceptively steep, especially on the descent. Due to the challenging terrain, this hike is not recommended during wet or windy weather.

Despite the difficulty, the summit rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramas. Take in the vastness of the southern coastline, the Recherche Archipelago islands, and the rugged beauty of Cape Le Grand National Park itself, with its iconic bays, sweeping heathlands, and granite peaks.

Don't underestimate this hike. While the distance may seem manageable, the steep terrain makes it a demanding climb. However, the stunning views from the summit make the effort worthwhile.