Rob Roy Glacier Track

Rob Roy Glacier Track is a must-do day walk in Mount Aspiring National Park, offering an up-close encounter with a hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls. The track winds through ancient beech forest and across swing bridges before opening to a stunning view of the Rob Roy Glacier, where you can watch ice avalanches tumble down the sheer rock face. The turquoise waters of the Matukituki River add to the dramatic alpine scenery, making this one of New Zealand's most rewarding short hikes.

Highlights & What to See

• Rob Roy Glacier: The main attraction – a massive hanging glacier with constant icefalls and a thunderous roar as chunks calve off the cliff.
• Lookout Point: A viewing platform at the track’s end provides a front-row seat to the glacier and surrounding peaks.
• Beech Forest Walk: The lower section of the track passes through mossy silver beech and red beech forest, alive with birdlife like tomtits and fantails.
• Swing Bridges: Cross two suspension bridges over the Matukituki River, offering thrilling views of the braided river below.
• Waterfalls: Several side cascades, including the impressive Rob Roy Stream waterfall, add to the dramatic scenery.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for the Rob Roy Glacier Track, including drive time from Wanaka. The walk itself takes 3–4 hours return (10 km), but factor in extra time for photo stops and glacier-watching. Start early to avoid crowds and catch the best morning light on the glacier face. The gravel road to the trailhead (Raspberry Creek) takes about 50 minutes from Wanaka and requires a vehicle with some clearance – check road conditions beforehand.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka: The nearest town, just an hour’s drive, with excellent dining, lakefront walks, and the famous Wanaka Tree.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: Extend your trip with the challenging Cascade Saddle Track or a scenic flight over the park’s glaciers.
• Glenorchy: A scenic drive from Wanaka, offering the Routeburn Track and Dart River jet boat rides.
• Queenstown: 1.5 hours south, with bungee jumping, Milford Sound tours, and vibrant nightlife.
• Cardrona Valley: Stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel or ski at Cardrona Alpine Resort in winter.

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