Rob Roy Glacier Walk

Wanaka Walks – Rob Roy Glacier

Rob Roy Glacier

***************************NOT CURRENTLY OPERATING! **********************************

One of the best short walks in New Zealand and also arguably one of the best drives up the Matukituki Valley.

The views from the top lookout over to the Rob Roy Glacier which feels like it’s coming down on top of you are amazing, the hike is relatively short with a constant incline and some rock hopping at the top, making this walk accessible to most reasonably fit day walkers.

The ride in alone is worth the cost of coming, it is such a scenic drive, and the road has multiple fords, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains glaciers viewable from the road.

This service will be shuttle only until the DOC consents come through allowing us to walk with you.

  • Distance return from Carpark 10km
  • Walking time 3-4 hours
  • Difficulty – Easy
  • Drive time is approximately 1 hour

From the Raspberry Creek car park you will walk along the valley floor through active farmland before turning and crossing a swingbridge. From there you will enter a beautiful Beech forest and the track has a moderate incline. Higher up the track has been rebuilt with a section of steep stairs following the floods of 2019. Shortly after you will get your first glimpse of the mighty Bridal Veil Falls. As you get higher the forest recedes and the views open up until you can see the hanging glaciers which feel as though they are coming down on top of you. If you are lucky you will be there when sections calve off the glacier and rumble down the valley. Quite a sight and sound to experience!

Valley floor from the car park
Swing bridge
First view of the falls through forest

The Rob Roy Glacier walk has a short flat walk from the car park before you cross the swingbridge and begin the climb. The bush walk is moderate, which is a step stair section built after the 2019 floods. The top section has a small river rock hop before more gravel paths to the lookout.

Rob Roy Glacier Map. Note the flat section from the car park is half of the distance.

What to bring

  • Suitable walking clothing
  • A warm layer is a good idea and a hat as it can be very cold at the top viewing platform
  • Camera
  • Water
  • Snacks

Shutte dates to Rob Roy are very limited. Click the Book button below to reserve a space.