The Rob Roy Glacier Track is the most rewarding short hike near Wānaka. It begins at Raspberry Creek at the end of the Mount Aspiring Road, crosses the Matukituki River on a swing bridge and then climbs through beech forest above the Rob Roy Stream to a clearing where the ice of Rob Roy Glacier hangs on the face of a rock amphitheatre, with waterfalls streaming beneath it. On warm days chunks of ice can break off with a rumble, and the surrounding peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park feel close enough to touch. The track is around ten kilometres return and usually takes three to four hours, with some steep sections and two or three stream crossings on bridges, so it is suitable for most reasonably fit walkers who are prepared for mountain weather. The drive is part of the experience.
How to visit
The trailhead is about 50 kilometres and around an hour from Wānaka, the last section on gravel road with several shallow fords that can rise after heavy rain. Ordinary rental cars can usually manage the road in dry weather, but check your rental agreement, since some companies restrict unsealed roads, and consider joining a guided walk with transport if you would rather not drive. The track itself is free and open all year, though winter brings snow, ice and avalanche hazards above the forest, so check the Department of Conservation page and local forecasts before setting out.
What to expect
The first stretch crosses open paddocks and a swing bridge before climbing steadily through forest. Higher up the track emerges into subalpine scrub and tussock, and the last section crosses a small stream, then climbs to the viewing area. The glacier itself is far above, so bring binoculars if you want detail.
Carry water, snacks, a warm layer and rain gear, and wear shoes with good grip, since the path can be slippery. Cell coverage is poor in the valley, so tell someone where you are going. In spring and summer the surrounding paddocks are home to sheep and cattle; leave gates as you found them.
Making the most of it
Start early to find parking at the car park and to enjoy the glacier before the afternoon cloud rolls in. Allow time at the viewpoint to eat lunch and watch the waterfalls, then descend with care. The valley road is also a lovely drive in its own right, and in summer the Matukituki River offers swimming holes and picnic spots.
Combine the walk with a lunch back in Wānaka and a lake swim, or follow it with an easier day on the lake. If conditions are poor or the fords are high, the Diamond Lake and Mount Iron walks are good fallbacks.
Good to know
The Mount Aspiring Road is a farm and park access road, so give way to stock, drive slowly through the fords and never attempt a crossing if the water is rising or discoloured. There are basic toilets near the trailhead but no shops, so bring all food and water. Sandflies can be fierce in the valley, so carry repellent. If you have time to spare, the nearby Cameron Flat and Raspberry Creek areas offer short, flatter walks that let you enjoy the valley even when the main track is closed.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided day walk of around ten kilometres return from the end of the Mount Aspiring Road to a viewpoint opposite Rob Roy Glacier.
Best time
Dry, settled days from late spring to autumn; the glacier is best seen in clear weather.
How long
Three to four hours for the walk, plus about an hour each way by road from Wānaka.
Tips
Check the road fords and weather before leaving, carry water and layers, start early, and tell someone your plan since mobile coverage is patchy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers who want a glacier view without a multi-day tramp.
- Families
- Suitable for children who enjoy a few hours of steady walking; the swing bridge and streams are highlights.
- Couples
- A scenic drive and a picnic at the viewpoint make a lovely half-day outing.
- Pair with
- A swim in the Matukituki River on the way back, or lunch in Wānaka.
- Time needed
- Most of a day including the drive.
Good questions
How long is the Rob Roy Glacier walk?+
It is about ten kilometres return and usually takes three to four hours, depending on fitness and how long you spend at the viewpoint.
How do I get to the Rob Roy trailhead?+
Drive up the Mount Aspiring Road from Wānaka, about an hour, including some gravel and a few fords. Guided walks with transport are also available.
Is Rob Roy Glacier easy to walk?+
It is a moderate walk with some steep sections and stream crossings on bridges. Most fit walkers manage it, but good shoes and weather checks are essential.
Is there a fee for the Rob Roy Glacier Track?+
No. The track is in Mount Aspiring National Park and is free to use. Some transport or guided options cost extra.
When is the best time to walk Rob Roy?+
Settled summer and autumn days are best. Winter can bring snow, ice and avalanche risk, so check the latest advice first.