Activities at Franz Josef Glacier

Tracks and walks

There are a number of short and longer walks within the glacier valley. There are also commercial guides available to guide you on these walks and provide further valuable information. 

Alex Knob Track

It’s a 4-hour climb to the top of Alex Knob. The track zigzags up to Rata Lookout for a view of the Franz Josef Glacier. From there follow the marked track to the summit.

Callery-Waiho Walk

Follow the Callery-Waiho Walk as it climbs to a high terrace before descending to the Callery River. The track then continues on to the Roberts Point Track.

Canavan's Knob Walk

Canavans Knob Walk is now open after extensive upgrading.

Douglas Walk

The Douglas Walk is an easy one-hour forest walk that passes by the Peters Pool viewpoint and crosses several moraines before descending to the bridge across Dolly Creek on the way back to the road.

Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk

The 40-minute walk to the terminal face of the Franz Josef Glacier follows a rocky path over riverbed. Only experienced and prepared visitors should attempt climbing on the glacier.

Lake Wombat Track

The Lake Wombat Track leads you through a lush rimu forest to the idyllic Lake Wombat.

Roberts Point Track

The Roberts Point Track requires a good level of fitness. After walking one hour you will reach Hendes Hut. From there the track continues to climb on to Roberts Point where the glacier views are spectacular.

Sentinel Rock Walk

Just a short distance south of the Franz Josef Township you will come to the Glacier and Sentinel Rock walks. The Sentinel Rock Lookout offers impressive views of the glacier, the valley and Waiho River.

Tatare Tunnels Walk

The 80-minute return Tatare Tunnels Walk follows an old 4WD road to a junction with the Callery/Waiho Walk. From there follow the track to the old water tunnels.

Terrace Walk

Follow the Terrace Walk as it winds through forest and goes by remnants of past goldmining operations.

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