Explore the Majestic Franz Josef Glacier Walk
Discover the enchanting Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a must-see hiking destination showcasing stunning glaciers and lush rainforests in New Zealand.
The Franz Josef Glacier Walk offers an unforgettable hiking experience through stunning landscapes, where lush rainforests meet towering glaciers. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this breathtaking trek unveils the natural beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.
A brief summary to Franz Josef Glacier Walk
- Unnamed Road Westland National Park, West Coast, 7886, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for better grip on the trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike, as conditions can change quickly.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, especially the glacier's unique blue ice.
- Consider joining a guided tour for an informative experience about the glacier's history and geology.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience on the trails.
Getting There
-
Car
From Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) towards Franz Josef. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes. Look for signs indicating the Franz Josef Glacier. Once you reach the Franz Josef township, follow the signs to the Glacier Access Road. Continue on this road until you reach the parking area for the Franz Josef Glacier Walk.
-
Public Transport
Take a bus service from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef. Several companies operate this route, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Check local schedules for exact departure times. Once you arrive in Franz Josef township, follow the signs to the Glacier Access Road, where the Franz Josef Glacier Walk begins.
-
Walking
If you prefer walking and are up for an adventure, you can hike from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef. It’s a significant trek, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) along the road. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water and snacks. Follow the SH6 south, and you’ll arrive at the Franz Josef township, where you can find the Glacier Access Road leading to the walk.
-
Cost Considerations
If you are taking the bus, expect to pay around NZD $25-30 for a round trip from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef. Parking at the Glacier Access Road is free for visitors arriving by car.
Discover more about Franz Josef Glacier Walk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
4.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Victoria Falls
10.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Empress Hut
19.5 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
20.8 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Ball Hut
22.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Copland Shelter
26.3 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Douglas Rock Hut
28.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Hooker Lake
28.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Sefton Bivouac
30.4 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
30.6 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
The Second Swing Bridge
31.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mueller Lake
32.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
33.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
Mt Cook Chalets
34.9 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
34.9 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trident Creek Falls
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a hidden oasis in New Zealand's West Coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Robert's Point Track
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Robert's Point Track, a must-visit hiking trail in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand.
Alex knob track
1.2 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Alex Knob Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park, perfect for adventure seekers.
Start Alex Knob Trail
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Terrace Walk
3.7 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
Canavans Knob
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Glacier Country Helicopters
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line - an unforgettable helicopter and hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
4.0 km
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
4.1 km
Discover stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
4.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Glacier Helicopters Franz Josef Glacier
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with unforgettable aerial views from Glacier Helicopters.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
4.1 km
Experience New Zealand's unique wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
4.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Callery Gorge Walk
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
3.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
4.1 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
4.1 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
4.2 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
4.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
4.3 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
13.1 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
13.1 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
The Last Kitchen
13.1 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Breakfast Restaurant
13.2 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
13.3 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
14.5 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
34.9 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
35.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
0.1 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Blucod
4.0 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
4.0 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
4.1 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
4.1 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
William Apiaries (Honey)
4.7 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
5.6 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Packraft New Zealand
7.1 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Real Tin Toys
7.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
13.1 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Cafe Nevé
13.1 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
13.1 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
13.1 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
13.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
13.2 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
4.2 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.
The Westhaven Motel
13.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
13.1 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
13.1 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
13.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Rainforest Motel
13.2 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
13.9 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
35.0 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
37.5 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.
Woodstock Hotel
99.6 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
