In short
- Fox Glacier flows rapidly down a steep funnel valley.
- Franz Josef is a 30-minute drive north of Fox Glacier.
- Both require paid helicopter tours to walk directly on the ice.
In this article
Fox Glacier sits 30 minutes south of Franz Josef on State Highway 6. Since a 2019 landslide closed the valley road, Fox Glacier public access is restricted to a distant viewpoint trail. To step on the ice at either glacier, you must book a guided helicopter tour.
How does free public access compare?
You cannot walk on the ice for free at either glacier.
At Fox Glacier, the South Side Walkway is a 6.4-kilometer return trail. It takes about two hours to walk through the podocarp rainforest. You view the terminal face from a safe distance. Valley access directly to the Fox Glacier ice was permanently closed in 2019.
Which glacier is steeper?
Fox Glacier flows down a steep funnel.
Fox Glacier descends 2,600 meters from the Southern Alps to 300 meters above sea level. This steep drop and 30 meters of annual snowfall cause it to move faster than most valley glaciers. Both glaciers are among the largest in New Zealand.
Can I hike on the ice at both glaciers?
Yes, guided heli-hikes operate at both locations.
At Fox Glacier, a heli-hike costs around $501.51 NZD. You get helicopter transfers and guided time on the ice with crampons provided. Operators here have over 50 years of experience. Helicopters rely heavily on weather and flights get canceled often.
Can I see both glaciers in one day?
You can book a scenic flight that covers both Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.
If you want to view both, a Twin Glacier helicopter flight lasts about 35 minutes. These flights start around $292.40 NZD. They include a 10-minute snow landing and pass near Mount Cook. Driving between the two base townships takes just 30 minutes.
What else is near Fox Glacier?
Fox Glacier offers access to Lake Matheson and steep alpine trails.
The Fox Glacier township has trails that Franz Josef lacks. Lake Matheson features a 4.4-kilometer loop trail with reflections of Mount Cook. The Mount Fox Route is a difficult 7.4-kilometer climb for expert hikers.
Which glacier should I choose?
Pick based on tour availability and weather.
Because weather frequently grounds helicopter flights, book whichever glacier fits your schedule. Fox Glacier operators fly at lower altitudes, which can sometimes allow flights when weather is marginal. Keep your plans flexible on the West Coast.
Questions travellers ask
Is it worth going to Fox Glacier?
Yes, Fox Glacier is New Zealand's third-largest glacier. You can view it from the South Side Walkway or take a helicopter tour.
How far is Fox Glacier from Queenstown?
Fox Glacier is a 4.5-hour drive from Queenstown along State Highway 6.
Which is better Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier?
Both offer massive ice formations and require a helicopter to walk on the ice. Fox Glacier has lower-altitude flight operations and fast-moving ice.
