Hiking Project Logo

A short trail that leads to the terminus of Fox Glacier.


Your Rating: Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating      Clear Rating
Your Difficulty:
Your Favorites: Add To-Do · Your List
Zoom in to see details
Map Key

0.9

Miles

1.5

KM

Point to Point

1,086' 331 m

High

767' 234 m

Low

360' 110 m

Up

42' 13 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

25%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views

Family Friendly At just under 2 miles round-trip, this hike packs a lot into its short length, and is sure to be memorable.

This track is sometimes closed due to ice collapse, flooding, or rockfall. Observe all signs and stay behind barriers.

Description

At just under a mile long, this short track is a great option to view the terminal end of Fox Glacier from as close as you can safely get.

From the parking area, head out on the wide and well marked path that follows along the rocky basin of the Fox River. This wide basin was carved by the retreat of Fox Glacier, as evidenced by the dramatic landscape that was left behind. The trail contours along the northern edge of the river basin, and there are several small waterfalls that can be seen on the steep mountainsides overhead. The water of the Fox River is milky from the glacial sediment, and this, in contrast with the gray granite and verdant hillsides, is a sight to remember.

In not too long, you'll catch a glimpse of Fox Glacier. Here, the going gets a little more rough, and the track will start to climb. You'll notice many signs warning you not to stop during this hike, as the danger for landslides and rockfalls is ever present.

Eventually, the trail will climb a last short and steep hill where you'll come to a roped-off area and several safety barriers. From here, you can see the terminal end of Fox Glacier and listen to the crack of ice, the crash of rocks, and the ever-present sounds of running water reminding you that the massive glacier is only seemingly dormant. Once you have taken in this amazing sight, simply retrace your steps back to the parking lot.

Contacts

Shared By:

Kristen McGlynn

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 5 votes

#27273

Overall
  3.0 from 5 votes
5 Star
0%
4 Star
40%
3 Star
40%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
20%
Trail Rankings

#252

in New Zealand

#27,273

Overall
4 Views Last Month
468 Since May 29, 2017
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

33%
0%
67%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Fox Glacier
Sep 14, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
Track to Fox Glacier
Sep 14, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
Rock face reflections.
Sep 14, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
Fox Glacier from the lookout.
Sep 14, 2017 near Mount C…, NZ
loading

Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Join the Community

Create your FREE account today!
Already have an account? Login to close this notice.

Get Started.