Hiking and Swimming the Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier New Zealand

One of my favorite (there are many) experiences in New Zealand was hiking the Franz Josef Glacier, on the the country's South Island. It is one of the few glaciers in the world that is advancing, rather than receding.  Visitors can explore the glacier through hiking, ice climbing, or even helicopter tours.  I chose a Franz Josef guided hiking tour to get an up-close-and-personal view of the glacier.

What to Expect
The company that led the tour I took was called Franz Josef Glacier Guides.  They offer both either a half or full day hike.  I elected for the full day tour based upon a tip from a previous hiker who said the half day tour didn't reach what he described as "the good stuff."

Upon arriving the morning of the hike, we were all given boots, waterproof jacket and over-pants, hats and mittens, and crampons.  After a brief introductory meeting, we loaded a bus and headed for the glacier.  I was surprised to discover that once the bus had dropped us off, we had over a kilometer to hike over rocky ground to just to get to the base of the glacier. The glacier is worth the effort.  

Swimming the Franz Josef Glacier

Once at the base of glacier, guides assisted us up a series of ladders until you reach the surface of the glacier.  Walking on the glacier was like being on another planet.  Living in Minnesota, I am accustomed to ice and snow, but this was different.  Never before had I been able to walk through ice tunnels, over deep crevices, and up mini ice mountains.  All through the hike, the Franz Josef guides explained the science and history behind the glacier, which enriched the whole experience. 

Near the end of the day, the guides offered us the option of swimming in a glacier pool.  We were told the plunge is a rite of passage for new glacier guides, and we had a new guide in our group.  I turned the polar plunge down, considering the hour-plus hike we still had back to the bus.  Some young British backpackers joined the guide in testing the icy waters...which helped me snap this great photo!

Just the Basics

• Cost:   Half Day-$123NZ, Full-Day $180NZ
• Website:  http://www.franzjosefglacier.com/
• Advice: Pack a lunch to eat on the hike, you'll need it.  Pack a swimsuit if you are feeling really adventurous!