In short
- The Glacier Valley walk and trailhead parking are completely free.
- The trail is a 1.5 to 2-hour return walk over mostly flat, rocky ground.
- You cannot walk on the ice for free; foot access closed in 2019.
In this article
Many visitors want to know if they need to book an expensive helicopter flight to see the ice. You do not. The Franz Josef Glacier free walk provides excellent views of the retreating terminal face from the valley floor.
Where does the Franz Josef Glacier free walk start?
The trail begins at the Glacier Base carpark, where parking is free.
You can drive 135 km from Hokitika or take a bus from regional hubs. The trail follows designated DOC paths through temperate rainforest before opening onto a rocky riverbed. Go early in the morning for the clearest weather and fewer crowds.
How long is the valley trail?
The main Franz Josef Glacier walk takes 1.5 to 2 hours return.
The path is mostly flat. You will walk over rocky terrain near the riverbed, so sturdy tramping boots with good ankle support are highly recommended. Check track conditions at the DOC Visitor Centre before starting.
How close can you get to the glacier on foot?
You can only view the glacier from a distance at the designated viewing areas.
The glacier has retreated over 800 meters since 2008 due to climate change. Foot access onto the lower glacier permanently closed in 2019 after significant rockfalls. Helicopters are now the only way to physically walk on the ice.
Why are there safety barriers on the free walk?
Barriers keep visitors away from unstable rock walls and sudden ice collapses.
You must stay behind all safety barriers. Fatal rockfalls, floods, and sudden ice collapses are frequent in this valley. Do not cross the barriers under any circumstances to get closer to the terminal face.
Are there other free viewpoints in the valley?
Yes, Sentinel Rock Walk and Roberts Point Track offer different views of the ice.
If you want elevation, Sentinel Rock is a short 20-minute steep climb. For a longer challenge, Roberts Point Track is a 5 to 6-hour day hike. It crosses suspension bridges to an elevated viewing deck.
Should you do the free walk or book a heli-hike?
The free walk gives you a distant view, while a heli-hike puts you directly on the ice.
If you have the budget, a heli-hike allows you to explore ice caves and crevasses. If weather cancels flights, the free valley walk is an excellent alternative.
Questions travellers ask
Can I walk on Franz Josef Glacier for free?
No. Foot access to the lower ice closed permanently in 2019. You must book a helicopter flight to physically walk on the glacier.
Is parking free at Franz Josef Glacier?
Yes. Free parking is available at the Glacier Base carpark at the start of the trailhead, as well as on Cron Street.
Do I need a guide for the valley walk?
You do not need a guide for the free valley walk. The DOC trails are well-marked. Guided eco-tours are available if you want to learn more about the ecosystem.
