Both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are natural wonders and each one is worth some taking some time to explore. However you choose to explore the glaciers, don’t leave the West Coast without taking at least one unforgettable memory with you.
What can you do at Franz Josef Glacier for free? 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Franz Josef
- See the Franz Josef Glacier on the Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk u2013 FREE. …
- See Rare Birds at the Okarito Lagoon u2013 FREE. …
- Check Out the Glowworms on the Terrace Walk u2013 FREE. …
- Learn About Franz Josef’s Kiwis and Glaciers at the West Coast Wildlife Centre u2013 CHEAP.
Consequently, What is Franz Josef known for? It is well known for its walks and coastal birdlife, including the white heron (ku014dtuku). For a taste of gold mining history visit the u014cku0101rito settlement and explore its historic survivors. Or take the Tatare Tunnels Walku2014you’ll get a view of the Tatare Gorge and the option of venturing into the tunnels.
How long should I stay in Franz Josef? Though the mountain town is beautiful and there are a few hikes to do, you don’t need more than two or three nights here (plus it’s super expensive here). Come, hike, see a glacier or two, move on. That’s basically it. This guide to Franz Josef will help you plan your (short) trip u2014 and save you money in the process!
FAQ
Is Franz Josef Glacier better than Fox Glacier?
Fox has a gradual decent, whereas Franz Josef drops steeply from the Southern Alps to near sea-level. The steeper incline forces dramatic movement of ice, making Franz Josef Glacier the fastest commercially guided glacier in the world, with ice moving up to 5m per day!
Can you walk Franz Josef Glacier? Franz Josef Glacier walk is an easy 1.5 hour round trip walk to the base of Franz Josef Glacier from the car park. Walk past a waterfall along the wide river stone track, suitable for children. You can’t get that close to the glacier face anymore because it’s receded too far.
Can you walk Franz Josef Glacier without a guide? Yes! You can hike the trail to the base of the glacier without a guide.
Can you walk to Fox Glacier? The walk will take you to within about 500m of the glacier terminal face. Even on a cloudy day, Fox Glacier valley looks like it’s from another world. The final section of track to the safety barriers includes a short climb up to the viewing area.
Where do you stop between Wanaka and Franz Josef?
What are the best places to stop between Wanaka and Franz Josef?
- Lake Hawea.
- Lake Wanaka Lookout (just after “The Neck”)
- The Blue Pools.
- Haast Pass Lookout.
- Fantail Falls.
- Thunder Creek Falls.
- Haast River lookout.
- Roaring Billy Falls.
What should I wear to Franz Josef Glacier? This includes:
- Breathable rain jacket.
- Hiking boots.
- Waterproof over-trousers.
- Crampons.
- Harness & Helmet.
How long is Franz Josef Glacier walk?
About the Franz Josef Glacier Walk
| Length: | Around 2.5 kilometers each way |
|---|---|
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours return |
| Facilities: | Carpark and toilets only |
| Wheelchair Access: | No |
29 mars 2021
How long is the Franz Josef walk? The 80-minute walk follows an old 4WD road then the tracks climbs to the old water tunnels. You will need a torch and raincoat to explore the tunnels. Walk or cycle through bush from Franz Josef township to the Franz Josef Glacier car park.
Can you see Fox Glacier from Road?
To see the glacier, you can head towards Lake Matheson on Cook Flat Road for magnificent views. You can arrange an ice-hiking adventure or booking a scenic flight. There are glow worm caves just a short walk from the town centre, which offers a good choice of cafes and restaurants.
Why is Fox Glacier closed?
The access road to Fox Glacier will remain closed indefinitely after a report found it impractical to re-establish road access into the valley since its February closure. The access road, which leads to Te Moeka o Tuawe off State Highway 6, has been closed since it was flooded for the third time in as many months.
How can I watch Fox Glacier for free? To see New Zealand’s glaciers up close for free, you can hike up to the terminal face of the glacier. It’s a self-guided, fuss-free and affordable way to be as close to the glacier as you can without having to pay for a guide. Of course, for a small fee, you can also have a guided tour.
Is Haast worth visiting? Haast Pass is a very beautiful drive with waterfalls everywhere, even down to the road. I kept the video camera rolling while we were driving through there and have relived the experience a few times since. The rest of the drive is lovely too, especially beside Lake Hawea and of course Wanaka is a beautiful town.
How long does it take to drive from Wanaka to Mount Cook?
At 199 kilometres this drive takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. However, we recommend taking at least half a day to make the most of the many photos stops and walks on offer.
How far is Milford Sound from Queenstown? Milford Sound is 288km from Queenstown (4 hours 15 minutes) and 121km from Te Anau (2 hours 15 minutes). Choosing to drive to Milford Sound by car in your own time can be a rewarding experience, but there are risks involved. It’s important to plan your drive to Milford Sound carefully.
How cold is Franz Josef Glacier?
Temperatures are low: 5 – 15°C (41-57°F), but the weather is more stable than during other seasons. Winter has the clearest days; everything is clean and pristine. Highlight: The ice moves less in winter, resulting in amazing ice features like crevasses and ice caves which stay much longer.
How cold is it on a glacier? Temperatures in glaciers and ice sheets vary in space and time. Temperate glaciers have temperatures at or close to 0°C, while the upper part of the Antarctic ice sheet may be as cold as -40 to -60°C (Fig. 4.2).
How close can you walk to Fox Glacier?
How long will it take? This is a 2.6km one-hour return walk.
How tall is Franz Josef Glacier? Franz Josef Glacier is currently retreating. In the past 8 years the Glacier has retreated around 800 metres making it just under 11km long. The Glacier is also 3000 metres in height.
How long is Hokitika Gorge walk?
Check out this 1.30 mile, loop trail near Hokitika, West Coast. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 42 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
How close can you drive to Fox Glacier? Fox Glacier village is on State Highway 6 and is 158km 2 hours by car from Hokitika, 262km 3 hours and 15 minutes by car from Wanaka and 25 minutes by car from Franz Josef Glacier village. Fox Glacier is just five kilometres from the village. Check out the Daily Glacier Access Update before your visit.
How far is Fox Glacier from car park?
From Fox Glacier township to the glacier car park. 4.2 km one way. Walk 2hr 20 mins return, cycle 1 hr return.
How long is Lake Matheson walk? Lake Matheson is one of most photographed lakes in NZ because of its mirror reflection of Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. The walk is an easy 2.6 km on a very good track, it took us 1.5 hours to go around the whole lake, it’s a great short walk.
