Rob Roy Glacier Hike

Overview

The Rob Roy Glacier Track brings you the most accessible views of dramatic glaciers, waterfalls and mountain landscapes in the Mount Aspiring National Park. The track travels through forest above a raging canyon to the treeline and stunning alpine views. 10km return with some steeper sections, 4-5 hours return. Suitable for young families or those new to trekking in New Zealand. Additional scenic flight and glacier landing option available.

Intinerary

On the morning of the trip, your guide can pick you up from your accommodation in Wanaka or you can meet them at the Aspiring Helicopters hangar at Cattle Flat on the Wanaka / Mount Aspiring Road.

It is an hour’s drive to the start of the Rob Roy Glacier Hike or with the option of a scenic helicopter flight and glacier landing.

The track crosses the West Matukituki Valley and follows a well formed track through the forest high above the Rob Roy Canyon to the treeline, alpine meadows, and views of glacier and waterfalls.

There are many options for breaks at viewpoints and streams to refuel and enjoy a packed lunch.

The return hike takes 3 – 6 hours, returning to Wanaka late in the afternoon.

Equipment

The optional scenic flight and glacier landing is run in collaboration with Aspiring Helicopters.

The helicopter takes off and travels 20 minutes along the Matukituki Valley, across the Harris Mountains, and deep into the heart of the Southern Alps / Ka Tiritiri o te Moana. Crossing in to the Mount Aspiring National Park we land on the Isobel Glacier for a 10-minute landing.

The helicopter will then transport you to the start of the Rob Roy Glacier Hike.

Difficulty & Fitness

Trekking

Suitable for young families or those new to trekking in New Zealand.

Fitness

Expect small ascents and descents and distances of up to 10km per day. Day packs. Up to 6 hours.

Dates & Pricing

Availability

Get in touch or register interest to arrange private trips from November to May.

Pricing

Testimonials

'Compared to the incredible stuff Wanaka Mountain Guides do, we took the tame hike up the Rob Roy Glacier track. Our guide was fantastic. It was all just so easy, and the team clearly highly professional. We will definitely use them again!'

— Sarah, Rob Roy Glacier Hike

‘[Our guide was] outstanding! I learned a ton, beautiful nature experience and appreciated the patience and kindness that he showed me and the other hikers. He has such instincts to know when people need a bit of help getting over a dodgy section on the trail. His experience, laid back style, positivity makes him an exceptional guide. I am very grateful to him and hope to get the opportunity to hike with him again! .’

— Claire, Wanaka Day Hike

‘Really good no1 fun day. Perfect conditions, great guide, got everything out of the trip that we wanted and more: fresh tracks, beautiful scenery, stunning weather, great company, and very safe and knowledgeable guide.’

— Wayne, Treble Cone Backcountry Tour