The access road and tracks can be closed due to rock falls or flooded rivers.
This gentle short walk takes you through rainforest with stunning glimpses of mountains, waterfalls, and Franz Josef Glacier.
A short uphill track leads you to a viewpoint overlooking Franz Josef Glacier valley. From here, you can see the upper portion of the glacier, and, as the glacier continues to retreat, the evolving landscape left behind by the ice.
Due to the changing course of the river, access further up the valley has been cut off, making it impossible to continue past this point on foot.
This is a beautiful yet volatile environment. Therefore, please heed all signage and avoid crossing barriers, as certain areas of the valley are hazardous and unsafe for visitors.
Track conditions often change. Be prepared by checking with the Department of Conservation before you go.
Getting there
Drive or walk south from the Franz Josef Waiau township across the Waiho River bridge and turn left onto the Glacier Access Road or Te Ara a Waiau. From here, the car park is about 4km.
Need to know
