In short
- A massive landslide permanently destroyed the northern valley road in 2019.
- Direct foot access to the ice is no longer possible.
- The South Side Walkway offers alternative safe viewpoints.
In this article
If you are planning to drive to the base of Fox Glacier, you need to adjust your route. A major landslide permanently altered the valley access, shifting all public foot traffic to the south bank of the Fox River.
What happened to the Fox Glacier access road?
The northern valley road was permanently destroyed by a massive landslide in 2019.
Public foot access directly to the ice from this side is permanently closed. The landslide wiped out the infrastructure. Authorities built new access on the opposite side of the valley to keep visitors safe from rockfall hazards.
Can you still drive to Fox Glacier?
You can drive to a designated car park located 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) south of the township.
Take State Highway 6 south from the Fox Glacier village. Follow the signs to the South Side Walkway car park. You cannot drive all the way to the terminal face. Check the NZTA or DOC websites for road closures before you go, as heavy rain often causes slips.
How do you see the glacier now?
You must hike the Fox Glacier South Side Walk to view the ice from a safe distance.
This 6.4-kilometer return track follows the south bank of the Fox River. It takes about 2 hours to complete the round trip. The path winds through ancient podocarp rainforest and ends at designated lookout points.
Can you walk on the ice from the new track?
No, you cannot walk onto the ice from the public track.
The South Side Walkway keeps you at a safe distance from the unstable terminal face. If you want to set foot on the ice, you must book a guided helicopter tour. These flights depart from the township and land high up on the glacier.
Are bikes allowed on the new path?
Cyclists can use the very first section of the South Side Walkway.
You are allowed to cycle the first 10 minutes of the track. After this point, you must dismount. You must leave your bike at the designated area and walk the rest of the 6.4-kilometer return track.
Is the new track safe?
The South Side Walkway is safe if you stay on the marked path.
You must not detour off the marked tracks. Never cross safety barriers at the viewpoints. Extreme rockfall and landslide hazards exist beyond these points. Always check current track conditions at the DOC Visitor Centre before departing, as sudden heavy rain can cause localized flooding.
Questions travellers ask
How far is the new car park from town?
The South Side Walkway trailhead is a 3-kilometer drive south of the Fox Glacier township on State Highway 6.
Do I have to pay to use the South Side Walkway?
No. Walking the Department of Conservation valley tracks and viewpoints is completely free.
Are dogs allowed on the new track?
No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Westland Tai Poutini National Park or on the glacier tracks.
