Fox Glacier Terminal Face Walk

Get up close and personal with one of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers on the Fox Glacier Terminal Face Walk. This short, guided trek takes you across the terminal moraine to the very foot of the nevé, where you can feel the chill emanating from the ice and witness the raw power of glacial movement. The walk offers a unique perspective on the glacier's retreat and the dynamic landscape it shapes, with expert guides providing fascinating insights into the geology and history of the area.

Highlights & What to See

• Glacier Close-Up: Stand at the terminal face of the Fox Glacier, a massive wall of ancient ice that reveals deep crevasses and striking blue hues.
• Moraine Walk: Traverse the rocky, ever-changing moraine landscape, with views of the glacier's snout and the surrounding Southern Alps.
• Ice Formations: Marvel at the intricate patterns and shapes of the ice, including seracs and moulins, formed by the glacier's constant movement.
• Interpretive Signs: Along the walk, informative panels explain the glacier's history, its retreat, and the unique ecosystem that thrives in this harsh environment.
• Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning shots of the glacier against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and lush rainforest.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the guided walk, which covers a distance of about 3 kilometres return. The walk is relatively easy, but sturdy footwear is essential. It's best done in the morning when the light is optimal for photography and the weather is typically more stable. Combine this walk with a helicopter tour onto the glacier for a full-day experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fox Glacier Township: Just a short drive away, this small town offers accommodation, dining, and the Fox Glacier Weheka Walkway through native forest.
• Lake Matheson: Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, a short drive from Fox Glacier.
• Franz Josef Glacier: A 20-minute drive north, this glacier offers similar walks and the chance to explore the Franz Josef area.
• Gillespies Beach: A wild west coast beach with a historic gold mining settlement and seal colony, about 20 minutes from Fox Glacier.
• Okarito Lagoon: A birdwatcher's paradise with kayaking and guided tours, 30 minutes north.

Please check official sources for current details.