In short
- Public valley access to the ice is permanently closed.
- View the glacier for free via the South Side Walkway.
- Stepping onto the ice requires a paid guided heli-hike.
In this article
A massive landslide in 2019 destroyed the northern valley road at Fox Glacier. This permanently cut off public foot access to the terminal face. Today, you can still hike local valley trails independently to see the glacier from a distance. If you want to touch the ice, you must book a guided helicopter flight.
Can you walk on Fox Glacier without a guide?
No, you cannot walk directly on the glacier ice yourself.
The only way to set foot on the ice is to book a guided heli-hike or scenic flight. The unstable valley floor is closed to public access. Visitors attempting to reach the ice on foot face severe rockfall hazards.
How can I see Fox Glacier for free?
You can hike the Fox Glacier South Side Walk without paying for a guide.
The South Side Walkway trailhead is a 3-kilometer drive south of Fox Glacier township on State Highway 6. This 6.4-kilometer return track winds through ancient podocarp rainforest. It ends at safe lookout points where you can view the glacier's terminal face from a distance.
Why is a guide required to walk on the ice?
Extreme landslide risks make the valley approach entirely unsafe for pedestrians.
Fox Glacier is a fast-moving, dynamic environment. Safety barriers on the public trails keep visitors away from unstable rock walls. Tour operators use helicopters to safely bypass the dangerous valley floor and land directly on the stable upper ice.
How much does a guided Fox Glacier helicopter tour cost?
Tours range from roughly $395 NZD to $795+ NZD depending on the flight duration.
Prices vary based on exactly what the tour includes. A short 25-minute scenic flight with a brief snow landing costs around $233 NZD. A comprehensive 4-hour heli-hike starts from $501 NZD. Note that tour prices change based on the booking platform and season.
What are the rules for walking the public tracks?
You must stay on the marked tracks and never cross safety barriers.
- Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the national park.
- Drones are strictly prohibited without a permit.
- Cyclists must dismount at the first viewpoint (about 10 minutes in) and walk the rest of the track.
How long does a Fox Glacier walk take?
The free South Side Walkway takes about 2 hours return.
Guided tours generally require a larger time commitment. A guided heli-hike takes up to 4 hours total. This includes gear fitting, a safety briefing, two helicopter transfers, and time on the ice.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need hiking boots for Fox Glacier?
Yes, you need sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or trail runners for the public tracks. If you book a heli-hike, the operator provides specialized leather boots and crampons for the ice.
Can I ride a bike to the glacier viewpoints?
You can cycle the first 10 minutes of the South Side Walkway. After reaching the designated point, you must leave your bike and walk the remaining track to the viewpoints.
Is the road to Fox Glacier open?
The northern access road is permanently closed due to a 2019 landslide. To see the glacier, drive to the South Side Walkway car park located off State Highway 6.
