Explore the Majestic Fox Glacier Valley Walk
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Fox Glacier Valley Walk, a family-friendly adventure in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand.
The Fox Glacier Valley Walk is a breathtaking journey through Westland Tai Poutini National Park, offering stunning views of glaciers, lush rainforests, and unique wildlife. Perfect for families and nature lovers, this accessible trail brings visitors closer to New Zealand's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Fox Glacier Valley Walk
- Westland Tai Poutini National Park Unnamed Rd, Westland National Park 7886, New Zealand, West Coast, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear, as some parts of the trail may be uneven.
- Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay energized during your walk.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Start your walk early to enjoy fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the center of Fox Glacier, start by heading south on State Highway 6. After approximately 1.5 kilometers, turn left onto the Unnamed Road that leads to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Follow the road for about 5 kilometers until you reach the designated parking area for the Fox Glacier Valley Walk. Parking is free, but ensure to check if there are any parking restrictions.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Fox Glacier Valley Walk using public transport, you can take a local shuttle service that operates in the Fox Glacier area. Look for shuttle companies at the Fox Glacier Visitor Center or nearby accommodations. The shuttle will take you to the starting point of the Fox Glacier Valley Walk. Ensure to check the shuttle schedule in advance, as the frequency may vary, especially during the off-peak season. Costs for the shuttle can range from $10 to $30 NZD per person, depending on the service provider.
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Walking from Fox Glacier Township
For those who prefer to walk, you can leave the Fox Glacier township and head towards the Fox Glacier Valley Walk. From the center of town, walk south on State Highway 6 for about 10 minutes, then turn left onto the Unnamed Road that leads into the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. It is approximately a 1.5-kilometer walk to the trailhead. Please wear comfortable shoes, as the path can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
Discover more about Fox Glacier Valley Walk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Victoria Falls
4.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Victoria Falls, a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand's West Coast that captivates all who visit.
Empress Hut
12.5 km
Experience the serenity of Empress Hut, a mountain cabin immersed in the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
14.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
16.3 km
Discover the gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking glaciers at Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your starting point for unforgettable adventures.
Douglas Rock Hut
17.5 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Douglas Rock Hut in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, your perfect outdoor retreat.
Copland Shelter
18.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Ball Hut
18.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Hooker Lake
20.8 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Sefton Bivouac
21.4 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Mueller Lake
23.4 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
The Second Swing Bridge
23.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
24.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
White Horse Hill Campground
25.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mt Cook Chalets
26.5 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
26.5 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track in New Zealand's West Coast, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
3.7 km
Explore the Fox Glacier South Side Walk in New Zealand's Westland National Park, a breathtaking journey through glaciers, mountains, and unique ecosystems.
Minnehaha Walk
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes await your discovery.
Mountain Helicopters Fox Glacier
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking sights of Fox Glacier and its majestic surroundings from the sky with Mountain Helicopters, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand.
HeliServices.NZ Fox Glacier
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with HeliServices.NZ's unforgettable helicopter tours.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with guided tours and adventures in New Zealand's stunning West Coast region.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with Glacier Helicopters, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand's stunning South Island.
The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Fox Glacier from above with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand.
Mount Fox Route trailhead
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and challenging trails of Mount Fox Route in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, an outdoor paradise for hiking enthusiasts.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
4.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier through an unforgettable heli hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Westland District.
Lake Matheson Walk
8.3 km
Explore Lake Matheson, a serene hiking paradise in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, famous for its breathtaking reflections of the Southern Alps.
Lake Gault Track
8.7 km
Explore Lake Gault Track, a breathtaking hiking trail in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where nature’s beauty meets tranquility and adventure.
Lake Matheson- Jetty Viewpoint
9.1 km
Discover Lake Matheson’s breathtaking reflections and lush landscapes in the heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Reflection Island
9.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Reflection Island, where the mountains and glaciers reflect on the still waters of Lake Matheson, a breathtaking escape in New Zealand.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
9.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where glaciers meet rainforests, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Essential places to dine
The Last Kitchen
4.1 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
4.2 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
4.3 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
4.5 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
5.6 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
16.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
16.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
16.4 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
16.5 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
16.6 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
16.6 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
16.8 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Alpine Restaurant
26.5 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
27.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
4.2 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
4.2 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Cafe Nevé
4.2 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
4.2 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
4.2 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
4.2 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Experience Fox Glacier
4.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
4.6 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
4.6 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
EuniQ Patchwork
4.7 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
5.1 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
8.2 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Matheson Cafe
8.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
12.9 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
William Apiaries (Honey)
14.9 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
4.1 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
4.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
4.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
4.3 km
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Rainforest Motel
4.4 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
5.0 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Moa Bar
16.4 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
Snowline Bar
26.5 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
29.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Hard Antler
91.2 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
