Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Fox Glacier requires careful planning due to frequent road closures and sudden weather changes. Arrive early to secure parking.
Getting there
Getting to the glacier.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive along State Highway 6 to the Fox Glacier township, then follow directions to the South Side Walkway car park. | 30 mins from Franz Josef; 4.5 hrs from Queenstown | null | Check the NZTA or DOC websites for road closures due to heavy rain, rockfalls, or slips, which are common on the West Coast. |
| Tour: Book a heli-hike or scenic flight departing from bases in the Fox Glacier township. | 20 minutes to 4 hours depending on tour | $395 - $795+ NZD | Helicopter flights are highly weather-dependent and frequently cancelled or rescheduled. |
| Walk: Hike the Fox Glacier South Side Walk from the designated State Highway 6 car park. | 2 hours return | Free | The 6.4 km return track follows the south bank of the Fox River through the forest to the designated viewpoint. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Summer (December to February) provides the best hiking temperatures. Winter (June to August) brings more stable, clear weather, resulting in fewer cancelled helicopter flights.
What to bring
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Check the DOC Visitor Centre for track conditions.
Heavy rain can cause flash floods on the valley tracks.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your visit.
Walk the public track and see the mirror lakes.
- South Side Walkway
Hike 6.4 km return along the south bank to the glacier viewpoint.
- Drive to Township
Return to your car and drive 3 km north to Fox Glacier township.
- Lake Matheson
Walk the 4.4 km loop trail for mountain reflections.
Take a morning flight, then explore the surrounding trails.
- Check In
Arrive at your operator's base in the township for a safety briefing.
- Heli Hike
Fly to the glacier, land on the ice, and explore with your guide.
- Lunch
Eat in Fox Glacier township.
- Lake Gault Track
Hike 8 km for elevated alpine views away from the crowds.
What to bring
The West Coast receives heavy rain. You must pack a waterproof jacket and wear non-cotton mid-layers like merino wool. Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes and insect repellent for the sandflies in the forest.
If you book a heli-hike, wear sunglasses. The glare from the ice is strong, even on cloudy days. Leave your drone behind; they are banned in the national park without a permit.
Easiest way to do it
Heli Hike Fox Glacier
4 h 4.9 (604)
- Leather boots and socks
- Wet Weather Jacket and Over trousers (if required)
- Crampons and walking poles
- Professional Guide
From$502per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where is the car park?
The South Side Walkway car park is located directly on State Highway 6, about 3 kilometers south of the main township.
Are there toilets at the glacier?
Facilities are limited at the trailhead. Use the public toilets in Fox Glacier township before you start your hike or tour.
How long does the valley walk take?
The Fox Glacier South Side Walk takes approximately 2 hours return. It covers 6.4 kilometers over uneven terrain.