Car Park
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
Be sure to stop at Franz Josef Glacier car park if you are driving through the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island with limited time to explore one of the best glaciers in New Zealand, and definitely one of the more easily accessible glaciers on the whole planet!
The Franz Josef Glacier Car Park is located in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a scant 3 miles from the tiny township of Franz Josef/Waiau, the principal gateway to visiting the glacier.
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Planning a trip to see the glacier? Visit our Franz Josef Glacier home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!
What Can You See From the Car Park?
For those who are time-constrained or mobility-challenged, the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park is your best option for soaking in the views.
On one side, you’ll see towering cliffs covered in lush rainforest.
Straight ahead, the broad glacial valley stretches out to the jagged bluish ice of the Franz Josef Glacier. Bring binoculars and/or zoom lenses to view and capture the stunning icy glacier terminus, which will be at a distance.
The car park is on the banks of the Waiho River, formed from the meltwater. Depending on the seasons and the recent weather, the river may be a gently flowing stream or a raging torrent!
Hikes From the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
If you don’t have mobility constraints, several trails from the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park are definitely worth exploring.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
Most visitors to the car park hike the Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a 1.5 hour, moderately difficult, trail through the valley floor to the closest glacier viewing point.
Sentinel Rock Walk
A short, steep, 20-minute climb to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the glacier.
Peter’s Pond
A 30-minute hike to a crystal-clear, mirror-like lake reflecting the surrounding peaks – a must-hike for nature photographers!
Roberts Point Track
A difficult, 5-hour out-and-back hike to some of the best views of the glacier from high above, worth considering if you’re not taking a helicopter tour or a scenic flight. You need to be in good physical shape to attempt this one.
How to Get to the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park?
Directions to the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park are straightforward:
- From the Franz Josef Township, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6).
- About 3 miles (5 km) south of the town, turn left onto Franz Josef Glacier Access Road, which is well-marked with prominent sign posts pointing toward the glacier.
- The road winds through the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a lush rainforest, and you’ll see glimpses of the Waiho River formed by the meltwater from the glacier ice.
- Cross the Waiho River Bridge over the wide riverbed of Waiho River making its way toward the Tasman Sea. Water levels vary significantly depending on the amount of meltwater, so you may see a trickling stream or a roaring river!
- Follow the road until it ends at the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park.
You can refer to our Franz Josef Glacier Map for details.
Parking at the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
The car park is a relatively large gravel lot given its remote wilderness surroundings, with space for about 80 vehicles.
The car park can accommodate campervans and tour buses.
Best Time to Visit
Peak season is December to February (summer in New Zealand), and expect the parking lot to fill up quickly.
Early mornings and late afternoons are less crowded – you won’t have to deal with the crowds from tour buses, and offer better chances for finding a parking spot.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park Hours
The Franz Josef Glacier Car Park is open 24×7 all through the year, providing you year-round access to the hiking trails and the glacier viewpoints!
Is the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park Closed?
Occasionally, due to bad weather or other reasons, the Franz Josef Glacier Access Road may be officially closed, preventing you from driving to the car park.
Luckily, the Department of Conservation issues a daily update that you should review before heading out.
You may also contact the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Center.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park Cost
Currently, parking at the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park is free, though there are plans to impose a parking fee to reduce congestion and improve facilities.
Visitor Tips
Careful planning is needed to make sure your trip to the Franz Josef Glacier Car Park to view the glacier is a success!
Don’t Expect to Walk on Ice
The Franz Josef Glacier has retreated significantly, and you will see the icy landscape from a distance when viewing from the car park. While trails like the Franz Josef Glacier Walk will get you closer, you still will be at a distance from the actual ice.
Due to significant risks including from falling ice, you are prohibited from walking up to the glacier terminus.
Currently, the only option for those who have walking on the glacier ice on their bucket list is a heli-hike tour.
Beat the Crowds
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park is a major tourist attraction and a must-stop on bus tours in this region.
If you are driving to the parking lot, plan on early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the crowds.
Plan for the Weather
The Franz Josef Glacier area is notorious for changing weather and sudden downpours – bring rain jackets and waterproof gear.
Bring the Right Gear
Planning to hike? Make sure you have sturdy hiking shoes since the trails can be slippery, especially after rains (which are frequent).
Make sure your smartphone is charged (especially if that’s your primary photographic equipment)!
Binoculars and zoom lenses are a must, and will offer a much better viewing experience since the glacier is at a distance.
Bring Insect Repellent
Remember to bring insect repellent since sandflies are more than a nuisance. Bites are itchy, and after bite ointment will be much appreciated!
Pro Tip: Also note, sandflies are attracted to black and dark blue clothing. Keep walking – sandflies are slow!
Top-Rated Franz Josef Glacier Tours