Trail summary
Hike overview
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 237 m
Min elevation: 87 m
Total climbing: 174 m
Total descent: -175 m
Getting there
Cape Le Grand National Park is approximately 45-minute drive from Esperance, Western Australia.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
About the region
Cape Le Grand National Park, a jewel near Esperance, Western Australia, stuns visitors with its diverse landscapes and idyllic beauty. This park, recently voted 8th place in Tripadvisor's 2022 Traveller's Choice Awards for Top 10 South Pacific Beaches, showcases the best of Western Australia's natural wonders.
Imagine pristine white sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, a sight straight out of a postcard. Lucky Bay, famous for its resident colony of sunbathing kangaroos, is just one of the park's many idyllic coves. Here, you can set up camp under a canopy of stars, have a picnic with a breathtaking ocean view, or simply relax on the warm sand.
The park's beauty extends beyond the coastline. Rugged granite outcrops rise dramatically from the landscape, contrasting with freshwater pools and wildflower meadows teeming with color in spring. Hike or bike along the network of trails, traversing the park's diverse terrain and soaking in the panoramic views. For the adventurous, rock climbing opportunities await at Frenchman Peak and Mount Le Grand.
Cape Le Grand caters to all interests. Swim, surf, fish, or boat in the crystal-clear waters. Explore the park's wild reaches on the Le Grand Coastal Trail, a network connecting the most spectacular coastal sections. Feeling ambitious? Take the challenging hike to the 262-meter summit of Frenchman Peak and be rewarded with breathtaking views encompassing the park and the Recherche Archipelago islands.
Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of diverse landscapes, or an adrenaline rush with hiking and rock climbing, Cape Le Grand National Park has something for everyone.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Cape Le Grand National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.