Discover the Majestic Lake Matheson Walk
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Matheson Walk, where stunning reflections of the Southern Alps await in a tranquil hiking paradise.
Nestled near Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson is renowned for its breathtaking reflections of the Southern Alps. This picturesque walking trail offers a peaceful escape into New Zealand's pristine wilderness, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Lake Matheson Walk
- Fox Glacier, 7886, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning reflections of the mountains on the lake.
- Wear sturdy shoes as some areas may be muddy or uneven.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including native birds and unique plant species.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit for the best experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Mount Cook National Park, take State Highway 80 (SH80) heading north towards Twizel. Continue for approximately 54 kilometers until you reach the junction with State Highway 6 (SH6). Turn left onto SH6 and head south towards Fox Glacier. After about 29 kilometers, you will arrive in the township of Fox Glacier. Look for signs directing you to Lake Matheson. The parking area for the Lake Matheson Walk is located just off the main road, with clear signage. Parking is generally free.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus service from Mount Cook National Park to Fox Glacier. Companies like InterCity operate services from Mount Cook Village to Fox Glacier. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive in Fox Glacier, you can either walk (approximately 4 kilometers) to the Lake Matheson Walk entrance, or take a taxi. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route from your location in Mount Cook National Park to Lake Matheson, consider hiring a taxi or using a rideshare service. This option is more expensive than public transport but can save you time. The taxi ride will take around 1 hour and will cost approximately NZD 150-200, depending on the service.
Discover more about Lake Matheson Walk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Victoria Falls
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Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
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Empress Hut
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Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
22.6 km
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Douglas Rock Hut
23.2 km
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Copland Shelter
25.3 km
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Ball Hut
26.6 km
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Sefton Bivouac
28.1 km
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Hooker Lake
28.1 km
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Mueller Lake
30.2 km
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The Second Swing Bridge
30.6 km
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White Horse Hill Campground
31.8 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.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
31.9 km
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Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
33.3 km
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The Hermitage Hotel
33.3 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Hermitage Hotel, your gateway to the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Gault Track
0.6 km
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Lake Matheson- Jetty Viewpoint
0.8 km
Discover the stunning reflections of the Southern Alps at Lake Matheson, a serene and scenic attraction in New Zealand's West Coast.
Reflection Island
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Reflection Island, where stunning mountain reflections and serene landscapes await in New Zealand's West Coast.
Mount Fox Route trailhead
4.2 km
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The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Fox Glacier with thrilling helicopter tours, revealing the beauty and majesty of New Zealand's natural wonders.
HeliServices.NZ Fox Glacier
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with HeliServices.NZ's unforgettable helicopter tours.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
4.4 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
4.4 km
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Mountain Helicopters Fox Glacier
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with Mountain Helicopters—an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View
4.4 km
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Minnehaha Walk
4.4 km
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Fox Glacier Viewpoint / Te Kopikopiko O Te Waka
4.5 km
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Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
4.6 km
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Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track
7.0 km
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Fox Glacier Valley Walk
8.3 km
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Essential places to dine
High Peaks Hotel
2.7 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
4.1 km
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Breakfast Restaurant
4.3 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
4.3 km
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Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
4.4 km
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The Last Kitchen
4.4 km
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Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
18.3 km
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SnakeBite Brewery
18.4 km
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
18.4 km
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
18.5 km
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Monsoon Restaurant
18.6 km
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Rainforest Retreat
18.6 km
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King Tiger
18.8 km
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Alpine Restaurant
33.3 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
33.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Matheson Cafe
0.0 km
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ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
0.1 km
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Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
3.3 km
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EuniQ Patchwork
3.8 km
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Fox Glacier Community Centre
3.9 km
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NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
3.9 km
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Experience Fox Glacier
4.3 km
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
4.4 km
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
4.4 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
4.4 km
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
4.4 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
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Cafe Nevé
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Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
15.4 km
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William Apiaries (Honey)
15.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Motel
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Rainforest Motel
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
4.3 km
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The Westhaven Motel
4.4 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
4.4 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
4.5 km
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Moa Bar
18.5 km
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Snowline Bar
33.2 km
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NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
36.6 km
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The Hard Antler
88.7 km
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