A lengthy climb from the Hopkins Valley and a high camp is likely to be
necessary if the ridge is followed all the way. Gain height along the sharp
and broken ridge until travel on the slopes above the Thomson Stream provides
quicker travel. Ascend a couloir south east of the peak and grapple with some
difficult rock to reach the top. The route is easiest to climb with solid
snow cover.
An alternative approach is to gain the upper Thomson Valley and follow it
until a moderate slope provides access to gain the south ridge, thus avoiding
traversing several gendarmes on the ridge. Access to the upper Thomson Valley
is gained by following the marked track from the Hopkins valley beginning at
H37, GR 590 977, through the beech forest, traversing the pleasant terrace
100-200m above the stream on the true left. Head up toward Mt Williams’
south ridge just before the pond in the upper Thomson is reached.
- P1
- Alpine (Mt Cook) 2