Tourism. Fox and Franz Josef glaciers are the most publicly-accessible glaciers in New Zealand, and among the most accessible in the world – until recently, there was easy walking access directly to the glacier termini. Consequently for over a century they have been a significant tourist attraction.
Can you walk on Franz Josef Glacier? The Franz Josef Glacier walk is the best way to view the Franz Josef Glacier without paying for a tour. The walk to the glacier is an easy hike and is around 4km return. The trail is considered a must-do on any South Island itinerary.
Consequently, 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.
Is the Franz Josef Glacier melting? Franz Josef glacier is in retreat. This was how it looked in 2019. New Zealand’s glaciers are now melting seven times faster than they were 20 years ago, a new global study has revealed.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier?
Franz Josef Glacier Guides operates glacier hikes year round. It’s well worth putting on an extra layer and getting out and exploring during wintertime, it’s one of the most spectacular times to visit the glacier. In fact, some say a visit to Franz Josef Glacier during winter is the best time to visit.
What should I wear to Franz Josef Glacier? This includes:
- Breathable rain jacket.
- Hiking boots.
- Waterproof over-trousers.
- Crampons.
- Harness & Helmet.
Can you walk Fox Glacier without guide? Yes! You can hike the trail to the base of the glacier without a guide.
How close can you walk to Fox Glacier? How long will it take? This is a 2.6km one-hour return walk.
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.
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.
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.
Does NZ have sea ice? Sea ice breaks up in the Ross Sea north of New Zealand’s Scott Base. This happens most years but scientists are worried climate change will disrupt the pattern.
How far has Franz Josef Glacier receding?
Since 2008, Franz Josef Glacier has been in a period of retreat, and has lost around 800 metres of length. Glaciers advance and retreat as a part of a natural cycle.
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 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.
What is there to see between Franz Josef and Wanaka? 15 Best Stops on the Drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef
- Lake Hawea. Lake Hawea is beautiful! …
- Lake Wanaka Lookout (just after “The Neck”) This is one windy road and the views of the lake are magnificent! …
- The Blue Pools. …
- Haast Pass Lookout. …
- Fantail Falls. …
- Thunder Creek Falls. …
- Haast River Lookout. …
- Roaring Billy Falls.
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).
What do they need to wear to walk on a glacier? What do you need to bring?
- Waterproof hardshell. When you’re out on a glacier to walk in Iceland, it will probably rain. …
- Good shoes (boots) …
- Non-denim pants (trousers for the Brits) …
- Something warm (layers) …
- Food and snacks.
Does Franz Josef have snow?
The Franz Josef town experiences more than 5 liters of rain each year and 10-15 meters of snow at the top of the glacier. However, in the winter it’s more stable. What is this? Temperatures are low: 5 – 15°C (41-57°F), but the weather is more stable than during other seasons.
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.
