Franz Josef is one of the most unique places in New Zealand. You can wander through ancient rainforest, see a glacier up close, and spot rare native birds. All within a short drive or walk from the village.

If you’re staying at Rainforest Retreat, you’re in the perfect spot to explore some of the best walks in Franz Josef. From short, family-friendly tracks to challenging full-day hikes, here are six you won’t want to miss.

1. Peters Pool Walk

Time: 25 min return
Distance: 1.1 km return
Start point: Glacier car park

 

An easy, family-friendly walk through rainforest to a small kettle lake formed by ancient glacier ice. On a calm day, Peters Pool offers mirror-like reflections of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Perfect for photos!

2. Roberts Point Track

Time: 5 hrs 20 min return
Distance: 11 km return
Start point: Glacier car park

 

For experienced walkers looking for a challenge, Roberts Point delivers. The track climbs through dense forest, across swing bridges, and up to a viewing platform with one of the best views in the area. Take plenty of water and snacks.

3. Alex Knob Track

Time: 8 hrs return
Distance: 17.2 km return
Start point: Glacier car park

 

The Alex Knob Track is the ultimate hike for panoramic glacier views. The track climbs steadily through alpine forest and open tussock slopes, ending with a 360-degree view of Franz Josef Glacier, the Southern Alps, and the Tasman Sea. This is a full-day hike suited for fit and experienced walkers, but the payoff at the summit is one of the best in New Zealand.

4. Sentinel Rock Walk

Time: 20 min return
Distance: 900 m return
Start point: Glacier car park

 

A short but rewarding track that leads to a viewing platform with views of Franz Josef Glacier in the distance and the surrounding valley. You’ll be standing on what was once the glacier’s surface in 1908, making it a great spot to see how the ice has changed over time.

5. Callery Gorge Walk

Time: 1 hr 20 min return
Distance: 5 km return
Start point: Cowan Street, Franz Josef village

 

Starting right in the village, this track winds through rainforest before reaching a viewpoint over the deep blue waters of Callery Gorge. It’s a great option for a morning or afternoon stroll without needing to drive anywhere.

6. Tatare Tunnels Walk

Time: 1 hr 20 min return
Distance: 3.6 km return
Start point: End of Cowan Street, Franz Josef village

 

A fascinating walk that combines history and nature. Follow the old water race through lush forest to the Tatare Tunnels, built during the gold mining era. Bring a torch, the tunnel is dark, damp, and home to glow worms if you’re lucky.

Stay in the heart of it all

At Rainforest Retreat, you’re close to every one of these walks. Wake up in luxury surrounded by native bush, grab your day pack, and start exploring. After your walk, return to a hot spa, a sauna session, or dinner by the fire at Monsoon Restaurant.

Book your stay now and make Franz Josef your base for these incredible walks.