Fox glacier South Side Walkway/Cycleway

Description

The Fox Glacier South Side Walkway/Cycleway follows the south bank of the Fox River through ancient podocarp rainforest. The track heads gently up the valley crossing ancient glacial moraine surfaces, with the forest reflecting the various ages of the glacier moraines which it has colonised.

The first viewpoint of the glacier is reached after approximately 40 minutes walk, before the track continues to reach an old car park. This is as far as you can cycle – all bikes must be left here before continuing on foot.

The track winds gently downhill through the rainforest for approximately 10 minutes to a view point of Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tuawe. Do not go past this point due to extreme flood hazard.

Getting there

Drive south for 2 km from the Fox Glacier Weheka township, cross the Fox River Bridge and park in the car park on the left hand side of the road heading south.

History and culture

The glacier holds added significance for local Māori as it is the moeka (final resting place) of their ancestor Tuawe.

Know before you go

What to expect

Access: The track can be closed due to rock falls or flooded rivers. Glacier viewpoints are hundreds of metres from the face of the glacier. View Fox Glacier web cam: http://www.snowgrass.co.nz/cust/fox_glacier/index.html

Change in elevation: +/- 100 m

Hazards

• Rapidly changing weather: This walk is in an alpine region.
• River surges: Glacial rivers can be dammed by ice falls and the dam could burst creating a huge surge of water and ice which floods the valley.
• Flooding: Downpours can create flooding within minutes – follow the marked track, obey all signs and never cross barriers.

Amenities

Toilets are available in Fox Glacier Weheka township.

Be prepared

Ensure you take:

• layered warm and waterproof clothing
• sturdy footwear.

All drone use must be authorised by DOC

A concession is required to fly a drone on any public conservation land