Is Franz Josef Heli Hike worth it?
Melissa recently did a Heli Hike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides and in her blog, she says that yes, it was worth every penny. A Heli Hike option with Franz Josef Glacier Guides may cost you more than a few cold beers, but some things are just worth it.
Can you walk Franz Josef Glacier without a guide?
Yes! You can hike the trail to the base of the glacier without a guide. 250m to the face of the glacier.
Which is the best glacier Fox or Franz Josef?
Ice Formations Fox has a more gradual incline, whereas Franz Josef drops steeply from the Southern Alps to near sea-level. The steeper incline means that Franz Josef Glacier is the fastest commercially guided glacier in the world, with ice moving up to 5m per day!
Can you walk on Franz Josef Glacier?
This is your chance to take a gentle stroll and be inspired! Even when it is teeming with rain, the Glacier Valley is still a place of isolation, wonderment and awe. Anyone with sensible shoes and a basic level of fitness can complete the round trip in 1 hour 30 minutes.
Do you need a guide Franz Josef Glacier?
The movement is imperceptible, hikers walk safely on the surface of the glacier guided by a skilled glacier guide. Glacier hiking is not an extreme sport but does require a moderate level of fitness and an ability to walk with crampons. Read why we access Franz Josef Glacier by helicopter here.
Can you walk on the Franz Josef Glacier?
Walking to the glacier is over rough and uneven ground and can involve crossing streams. Be prepared to turn back if conditions are not favourable or you are outside your comfort zone. Check the Westland Tai Poutini National Park weather forecast – NIWA website (external site).
How long is the Fox glacier walk?
How long will it take? This is a 2.6km one-hour return walk. Drive south for 2km from Fox Glacier Weheka township, and turn left immediately before the Fox River bridge. From the car park at the end of the glacier access road, you will notice large mounds of moraine for the first 100 or so metres of the track.
How long is the Franz Josef glacier walk?
1.5 hour
Franz Josef Glacier walk is an easy 1.5 hour round trip walk to the base of Franz Josef Glacier from the car park. Walk past a waterfall along the wide river stone track, suitable for children. You can’t get that close to the glacier face anymore because it’s receded too far.
Should I stay at Fox Glacier or Franz Josef?
Fox Glacier has a gradual incline whereas Franz Josef is steeper. The surface of Franz Josef Glacier is full of crevasses and ice caves, where you have a much better chance of seeing the famous blue ice.