Epic Scenery: Breathtaking Shots of Fox Glacier

Best photography locations in Fox Glacier

Tucked away in the southern stretch of New Zealand’s West Coast, Fox Glacier is a breathtaking testament to the South Island’s awe-inspiring beauty. This stunning region, with its iconic glacier, mirror-like lakes, and secluded beaches, offers visitors the chance to witness some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply a traveller seeking an unforgettable experience, Fox Glacier will leave you spellbound.

From the massive river of ice that gives the area its name to the perfect reflections of snow-capped peaks in Lake Matheson, every turn in this magical corner of New Zealand reveals a new wonder. Join us as we explore Fox Glacier’s most scenic spots and share some magnificent shots of the Southern Alps’ raw beauty.

The Glacier

The Fox Glacier itself is a geological wonder. Stretching over 13 kilometres from the Southern Alps to temperate rainforest, this river of ice presents ever-changing faces throughout the seasons. In winter, witness the pristine white expanse against deep blue skies. Spring brings dramatic ice caves and crevasses, while summer reveals the glacier’s raw power as it slowly carves the valley. Autumn offers a stunning contrast of golden foliage against the icy backdrop.

Mirror Lakes 

Lake Matheson, one of New Zealand’s most photographed lakes, is famous for its perfect mirror-like reflection of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on still days. Take the gentle Lake Matheson walk to soak up the beautiful scenery and capture some magnificent shots of your own. Lake Gault and Lake Mueller also offer spectacular reflections and serene landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. 

Secluded Beaches 

Gillespie’s Beach, a hidden gem just a short drive from Fox Glacier township, offers a dramatic coastline where mountains meet the sea. This pebble-strewn shore provides remarkable views of the Southern Alps and is an ideal spot for capturing stunning sunset images. For the adventurous, a walk along the beach reveals old gold mining relics and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of Fiordland crested penguins or fur seals. 

Scenic Walks 

The best way to see many wonders of Glacier Country is by putting on a pair of comfy walking shoes and exploring the many scenic tracks in the region. Here are some of our favourite walks in Fox Glacier:

Fox Glacier South Side Walkway and Cycleway:

This 6.4km return track follows the south bank of the Fox River through an ancient podocarp rainforest to a viewpoint of Fox Glacier. The walk takes about 2 hours on foot and 1 hour on bike. Along the way there are three viewpoints offering unique perspectives of the glacier. The track eventually reaches an old carpark, this is as far as you can cycle, bikes must be left here before continuing on foot. From here is approximately a 10 minute walk to the final viewpoint. For the best photos, aim for a sunny, clear day and try to visit earlier in the day, by late afternoon, clouds often cover the glacier. Note this track can be closed due to rock falls or flooded rivers; always check current conditions.

Moraine Walk:

On the return from the Fox Glacier viewpoint, take the 30-minute side trail called the Moraine Walk. This easy detour explores fascinating glacial landscapes and offers unique insights into how the glacier has shaped the surrounding terrain. Bikes are not permitted on this trail, so please leave them at the start of this walk. If doing the Moraine Walk on its own, it’s an easy 1.5-hour return walk from the carpark.

Lake Matheson Walk:

Arguably one of the most popular tracks, this 2.6km loop around the picturesque mirror lake takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The track is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, offering several viewing platforms for those perfect reflection shots of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. For a shorter option, the walk from the car park to Jetty Viewpoint takes around 40 minutes return and is suitable for assisted wheelchairs. Both sunrise and sunset are magical times to visit, with calmer winds and golden light giving you the best chance of those flawless reflections.

Minnehaha Walk:

This short, easy 20-minute loop through native forest is perfect for families. The real magic happens at night when glow worms light up the track, creating a mesmerising natural light show. This walk is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.

Lake Gault Track:

Opened in 2019, this 8km return track offers another reflective lake experience. This track gradually climbs 200m through an ancient podocarp forest with some small stream crossings along the way. The walk takes 3 hours return, but rewards hikers with serene lake views and fewer crowds than Lake Matheson. Early morning is the best time for photos, when the lake is calm and the mountains are perfectly mirrored on its surface. A shelter with two picnic tables at the lookout provides a great spot to rest and take in the scenery.

Te Kopikopiko o te Waka (Tohu Whenua):

Landscaped with walkways suitable for all fitness levels, this cultural heritage site was redeveloped in 2022 by Ngāti Māhaki and the local community. The carved waka shares the Ngāi Tahu creation story of Aoraki and his brothers, while the viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Southern Alps and an excellent vantage point for Fox Glacier. It’s also a top spot for photo with sunset providing stunning light, while early morning offers clearer skies and a better chance of unobscured mountain views.

Note: Always check current track conditions with the Department of Conservation, as glacier areas and West Coast streams and rivers can change rapidly. 

Where to Stay

Fully immerse yourself in the Fox Glacier experience at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier and Heartland Hotel Glacier Country, where cosy, comfortable accommodation meets warm Kiwi hospitality in the centre of town. For a luxurious 5-star stay, consider Legacy Te Waonui Hotel in Franz Josef, a sustainably designed retreat in the serene rainforest. 

Fox Glacier’s raw beauty and ever-changing landscapes offer an unforgettable experience for all who visit. From the icy grandeur of the glacier itself to the perfect reflections of Lake Matheson, or the wild beauty of the West Coast beaches, this corner of New Zealand promises sights that will take your breath away.