Roberts Point Track
A challenging trek through native bush and over swing bridges to witness the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear glacier views
Roberts Point Track
Best Time
Best chance for clear glacier views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging trek through native bush and over swing bridges to witness the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.
"An incredible, but challenging hike with jaw-dropping views at the end!"
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots
Essential for slippery rocks & river crossings. Don't underestimate wet conditions!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It's a challenging hike, so stay hydrated throughout the 5-hour trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Franz Josef Glacier Views
End of the track
Jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Franz Josef Glacier, a truly unforgettable sight.
Epic Swing Bridges
Various points along the track
Cross multiple exhilarating swing bridges, including a 100-meter one, adding an adventurous element.
+1
Waterfalls and Rocky Trails
Along the track
Navigate through lush native forest, past cascading waterfalls and challenging rocky terrain.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Trek
Weather is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots
Essential for slippery rocks & river crossings. Don't underestimate wet conditions!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It's a challenging hike, so stay hydrated throughout the 5-hour trek.
🍎 Bring Snacks/Lunch
Enjoy a well-deserved meal with incredible glacier views at the top.
⚠️ Check Weather Forecast
Crucial for safety and maximizing glacier visibility.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Waterproof Hiking Boots
Essential for slippery rocks & river crossings. Don't underestimate wet conditions!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It's a challenging hike, so stay hydrated throughout the 5-hour trek.
🍎 Bring Snacks/Lunch
Enjoy a well-deserved meal with incredible glacier views at the top.
⚠️ Check Weather Forecast
Crucial for safety and maximizing glacier visibility.
⬆️ Be Prepared for Steepness
The track is uphill 90% of the way; good fitness is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Roberts Point Track for its challenging yet incredibly rewarding nature, offering spectacular glacier views and adventurous elements like swing bridges and waterfalls. While the hike is demanding and requires good fitness and proper gear, the stunning scenery makes it a highly recommended experience for those seeking an authentic New Zealand adventure.
"This hike is truly incredible! Along the way, you'll encounter numerous bridges and staircases built into the mountainside. The trail mostly winds through dense jungle, but it eventually opens up to a breathtaking platform with stunning glacier views—weather permitting.
Please be cautious on rainy days, as the trail is mostly off-road and can become extremely slippery. At the start, you'll find a warning sign detailing past fatalities on this route, emphasizing that this is not an easy hike. However, on clear days, with proper hiking gear, it's absolutely manageable—and well worth the effort!"
Lukris
"A beautiful but challenging hike. Starts easy and get’s harder the closer you come to the end. As we went back down light rain started so it was really slippery and we fell several times. Took us 2,5 hrs to go up und 2,5 hrs down. Make sure you wear GOOD and waterproof hiking shoes."
lizzy.069
"An incredible, but challenging hike 🥾🏔️
From the carpark, the start of the walk is about 30 minutes away, then the return hike is 5 hours. This walk is for experienced, well-equipped hikers only! The terrain is challenging, and it's uphill 90% of the way. You have to cross a few waterfalls, make sure your boots are waterproof. As for any hike, plan ahead, check the weather, pack for any eventuality, bring some lunch to enjoy at the top! 🙃
The view from the end point is just fantastic! There are a few view points along the way with great views of the valley. And the suspension bridges, and cliff-side steps make the trek fun! ☺️"
Sasha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located near the Franz Josef Glacier car park. Follow the signs from the main car park; the walk to the actual start of the track is about 30 minutes.
Yes, there is parking available at the Franz Josef Glacier car park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season.
While the track itself is for walking, the access road to the Franz Josef Glacier area is generally manageable for most vehicles, including campervans.
Public transport options to Franz Josef Glacier are available, but you'll likely need to walk or arrange a local taxi from the town center to the trailhead.
The closest town is Franz Josef Glacier, which offers accommodation, dining, and other amenities for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Roberts Point Track is a free public hiking trail. There are no admission fees.
The track is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for Roberts Point Track. It's a free natural attraction.
While not mandatory, guided tours are available and can provide valuable insights into the local flora, fauna, and glacier history.
No permits are required for hiking Roberts Point Track. It's an accessible public trail.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The return hike typically takes around 5 hours, though this can vary depending on your pace and fitness level.
It's considered a challenging hike due to steep ascents, uneven terrain, and potential slippery sections. Not recommended for casual walkers.
You'll experience stunning views of the Franz Josef Glacier, surrounding valleys, waterfalls, and native New Zealand bush.
There are limited facilities along the track itself. It's best to use restrooms at the car park before you start your hike.
Due to its challenging nature, steep sections, and river crossings, it's generally not recommended for very young children. Older, experienced children might manage.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a photo opportunity, from the swing bridges and waterfalls to the final panoramic glacier views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive glacier views, and a sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls.
Yes, even on cloudy days, the dramatic atmosphere and lush greenery can make for striking photos. The waterfalls are particularly photogenic.
Include elements like people, bridges, or trees in your shots to give a sense of scale against the vastness of the glacier.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing extra snacks and making frequent breaks. Alternatively, shorter, flatter walks in the Franz Josef area might be more suitable for families with very young children. 👟 Adventure Seekers
The potential for encountering waterfalls and the dramatic glacier views at the end provide a perfect payoff for your efforts. Don't forget to pack your waterproof gear and sturdy boots to fully embrace the adventure! 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The changing light throughout the day can create stunning photographic opportunities. Be prepared for a challenging hike, but the unique perspectives and breathtaking scenery are well worth the effort for capturing incredible shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: What to Expect
+1Key features of the terrain include:
* Steep Ascents: The majority of the hike involves a significant uphill climb, testing your stamina.
* Rocky Paths: Expect to navigate through rocky outcrops and scree slopes.
* River Crossings: Several streams and rivers need to be crossed, often via bridges.
* Slippery Sections: After rain, the trail can become extremely slippery, making waterproof footwear crucial.
This challenging landscape is what makes the Roberts Point Track so rewarding, offering a true wilderness experience.
The Iconic Swing Bridges
+1 The most prominent is a 100-meter swing bridge that offers spectacular views as you cross, testing your nerve if you're not a fan of heights. +1These bridges are well-maintained but do sway, so take your time and enjoy the unique perspective they offer. They are a testament to the engineering required to make this stunning natural landscape accessible.
Capturing photos on or of these bridges is a must-do for many visitors, showcasing the adventurous spirit of the hike. Glacier Views and Environmental Change
It's a poignant reminder of the changing natural world and the importance of conservation efforts.While the views are spectacular, it's important to remember that glaciers are dynamic environments. The track offers a unique opportunity to see a glacier up close, but always respect safety guidelines and the natural environment.
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