New Zealand Photo Journal 22: Touring Fox Glacier

Welcome to the 22nd edition of our New Zealand Photo Journal series. In this edition, we will be exploring the stunning beauty of Fox Glacier, one of the most breathtaking glaciers in the country.

New Zealand is known for its awe-inspiring landscapes, and Fox Glacier certainly lives up to that reputation. Situated on the West Coast of the South Island, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The glacier is nestled within Westland Tai Poutini National Park, providing visitors with a remarkable opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close.

New Zealand Photo Journal #22: Touring Fox Glacier

by Scott David Plumlee (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13702 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	51 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	216 pages
Item Weight	:	11.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	0.6 x 6.1 x 9.2 inches

FREE

When you embark on a journey to Fox Glacier, you will find yourself surrounded by a lush rainforest, towering peaks, and the icy-blue glacier itself. The contrasting landscapes make it a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities to capture stunning images.

Exploring the Glacier

One of the best ways to experience Fox Glacier is by taking a guided tour. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the glacier's vast expanse while being accompanied by knowledgeable guides who ensure your safety throughout the journey.

As you traverse the glacier, you'll encounter breathtaking ice formations, deep crevasses, and brilliant blue ice caves. The constantly changing environment of the glacier means that no two tours are the same, making each visit a unique experience.

It is important to note that venturing onto the glacier on your own can be extremely dangerous due to the unpredictable nature of the ice. Therefore, it is highly recommended to join a guided tour to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Surrounding Attractions

While Fox Glacier itself is a mesmerizing destination, the surrounding area offers an array of attractions that are worth exploring. Nearby Lake Matheson, known as the "Mirror Lake," is a must-visit spot for photographers. The lake's calm waters perfectly reflect the surrounding Southern Alps, creating a mirror-like effect that is simply breathtaking.

The town of Fox Glacier also offers a range of accommodation options, including cozy lodges and campsites, making it a perfect base for further exploration. From here, you can embark on hikes through pristine rainforests, visit nearby coastal towns like Franz Josef, or simply take in the beauty of the glacier from various viewpoints.

Preserving the Glacier

It's important to acknowledge the rapidly changing climate and its impact on Fox Glacier. The glacier has been retreating over the years due to global warming, which emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism and conservation efforts.

As visitors, we have the responsibility to minimize our ecological footprint and preserve these natural wonders for future generations. Following designated tracks, not littering, and respecting local wildlife are just a few simple actions that can help protect this fragile ecosystem.

New Zealand's Fox Glacier offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. Its stunning beauty, combined with the surrounding attractions, makes it a must-visit destination during any trip to New Zealand. So, grab your camera and embark on a journey to the majestic Fox Glacier – you won't be disappointed!

New Zealand Photo Journal #22: Touring Fox Glacier

by Scott David Plumlee (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13702 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	51 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	216 pages
Item Weight	:	11.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	0.6 x 6.1 x 9.2 inches

FREE

Come join me for this 50-image photo journal as I cycle and hike across New Zealand. In this 22nd volume I will be cycling south with some new friends to Fox Glacier. I white-knuckled a very steep descent from Arthur's Pass down to the west coast highway, where we surprisingly served as first responders to an auto accident, and joined up with two more cyclists to create a proper bike gang on the way down to Fox Glacier. I hope you enjoy these images and travel thoughts as much as I did photographing them and living the adventure.