Walking on Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier is the West Coast's longest glacier and the best way to explore it is with Fox Glacier Guiding, New Zealand's most experienced glacier guiding company.
There are a number of guided trips designed to suit all levels of fitness and ability from a gentle walk to the terminal face of the glacier to a full day of ice climbing. All equipment is provided and experienced and knowledgeable guides will accompany you all the way.
The Fox Trot is a half day trip that takes you on a walk beside the river bed to a secret track which zigzags slowly uphill through ferns and regenerating temperate rainforest. From high on the track you will have fantastic views of the glacier and its upper and lower icefalls. From its high point, the track winds down to the edge of the ice and at this point you are outfitted with instep crampons specially designed for these ice conditions, and you follow the ice steps cut by the guides. The route takes you onto the ice amongst crevasses and ice ridges and leads you into the middle of the glacier for spectacular views of the icefall and lower glacier.
The Nimble Fox initially follows the course of The Fox Trot but then you will venture off into more challenging terrain as your guide explores new routes and cuts fresh ice steps that will take you to the majestic pinnacles of the lower icefall.
The Flying Fox is another level of excitement altogether. You will be flown by helicopter to a remote and exceptionally beautiful part
of the glacier that is out of the reach of most walkers. This is where the forces of the glacier are at their most dynamic creating
spectacular ice caves and arches
and you will be able to enjoy a full 2 ½ hours of
exploration.
Franz Josef Glacier is also near, but the larger, 'less busy' Fox is our favourite.
