We started up French Mountain after a rough 4 wheel drive road that included a stream crossing, and some huge rocks. If you do not have a four wheel drive, add about 3 miles to the hike, one-way. The hike is initially a gentle, steady uphill through a pine forest, where you eventually come out in a cirque with several peaks. French Mountain extends off to the right side. The easiest path to the top is to head directly north, straight up the rough side of French Mountain until you gain the ridge. At this point, you are above timberline, and it is an obvious class 2 scramble to the ridge. At the ridge, simply follow it east to the summit. There is an incredible view off the backside of the mountain of another cirque that would be fantastic to camp in. Unfortunately, the road in to that area is a private mining road, and off access to hikers. Descend with a screaming, running, dangerous romp straight down the north face, or switchback the way you came.