Frenchman Peak Trail

Frenchman Peak Trail is a 2.4 kilometer moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Cape Le Grand, Western Australia, Australia that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is accessible year-round.

Length2.4 kmElevation gain163 mRoute typeOut & back

In the south-west corner of the park, massive rock outcrops of granite and gneiss form an impressive chain of peaks including Mount Le Grand (345m), Frenchman Peak (262m) and Mississippi Hill (180m). They are the result of erosion and movements in the Earth's crust over the past 600 million years. Caves and tunnels found in the peaks are thought to have been formed or enlarged by wave action and underwater currents during a period some 40 million years ago, when sea levels were at least 300 metres below their current level and the peaks were largely submerged. 
 
 A party led by explorer and prominent colonist John Forrest passed through the area in 1870, in search of good country for pasture. During this expedition, Frenchman Peak was named by his brother, surveyor Alexander Forrest, because its shape was said to resemble a man wearing a Frenchman's cap. The Aboriginal name for the peak was Mandooboornup. 
 
 There is a hard 3km return, 2 hour walk to the summit to enjoy outstanding views over the coast. Please follow footpath from the car park to the easy angled east slope - do not attempt to short cut as the rock is deceptively steep, especially on descent. This walk is not recommended in wet or windy weather.

Wild coastal scenery, rugged granite peaks, and sweeping heathlands characterize Cape Le Grand National Park. Popular features in the park include attractive bays with wide sandy beaches set between rocky headlands.

The park lies 30km south-east of Esperance, 50km by road. Approach via Fisheries Road, Merivale Road and Cape Le Grand Road. The route is well signposted from Fisheries Road. The park is 30 minutes drive from Esperance. Vehicle entry feed apply.