Is Roberts Point Track better than Alex Knob? Find out in this 2026 hiking guide – includes essential safety tips, where to stay in Franz Josef, and post-hike recovery spots.
If you’re not up for paying $800 NZD for a helicopter flight to visit the Franz Josef Glacier, there is another way. It’s called the Roberts Point Track.
It’s got swaying suspension bridges, rainforest scrambles, and a viewpoint that makes you feel like you’re starring in a high-budget nature documentary.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the logistics, the “Alex Knob vs. Roberts Point” debate, and how to avoid the mistakes I made.
Welcome to your next hiking adventure!
Planning your trip? My New Zealand Favorites:
🚗 Transport: Compare car and campervan deals on Expedia – A rental car is essential for the West Coast, as public transport is basically non-existent between the glaciers.
🏨 Hotels: Find the best lodges and hostels on Booking.com — I recommend staying in Franz Josef for at least two nights to account for bad weather.
🚁 The Heli-Hike: Book your Heli-Hike directly with Franz Josef Glacier Guides — They are the OGs of the ice, and this is a must-do on the West Coast!
🎟️ Tours & Activities: Book Milford Sound cruises, Queenstown bungy jumps, and glow worm tours on Viator — It’s the easiest way to keep all your NZ bookings in one app.
✈️ Flights: Check Air New Zealand for domestic hops — If you’re flying from Auckland to Christchurch or Queenstown, they are the most reliable option.
🛡️ Insurance: Don’t hike without cover. I use Ekta Travel Insurance – It’s affordable, easy to set up, and essential for unpredictable NZ adventures.
📱 Connectivity: Stay connected with a Saily eSIM – The West Coast has massive “dead zones.” Get a Saily eSIM so you have data the second you hit a town to check those weather updates!
A note from Sara:
There are affiliate links in this post, and I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase – at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my work if you found this guide helpful – thank you so much!
Roberts Point Track – Quick Overview
- Location: Westland Tai Poutini National Park, near Franz Josef Glacier, South Island, New Zealand.
- Length: Approximately 12.3 km (round trip).
- Duration: 5-6 hours round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to uneven terrain and steep sections.
- Starting Point: Franz Josef Glacier car park.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (October to April) for the most favorable weather conditions.
Highlights of the Roberts Point Track
- The Douglas Bridge: This bridge is a massive suspension cable swinging over a deep, roaring gorge. It’s the ultimate “welcome to the jungle” moment and, honestly, the best photo op on the lower trail. Just try not to look down if you’re shaky with heights!
- Hende’s Hut: A total time capsule. This tiny historic shack was built back in the early 1900s for the first wave of glacier explorers. It’s no longer for sleeping, but it’s a lifesaver if a West Coast rain shower catches you and you need a dry spot to hide and regroup.
- The Roberts Point Lookout: The big reveal. After hours of scrambling over roots and rocks, you pop out at this wooden platform and—bam—the Franz Josef Glacier is right in your face. It’s the perfect place to sit, smash a granola bar, and realize that every drop of sweat was 100% worth it.
- The “Secret” Waterfalls: You don’t just see waterfalls on this track; you live them. The trail is crisscrossed with streams and hidden cascades that appear out of nowhere, especially after rain. It turns the whole hike into a mossy, dripping symphony—just be prepared to get your boots a little wet.
Sara’s Safety Tips
Look, I’m all for “sending it,” but the West Coast of New Zealand is not the place to be a hero. It’s raw, it’s moody, and it will humble you in seconds. If you want to finish this hike with all your skin intact, keep these things in mind:
- The “Crab-Walk” is a Legitimate Technique: When those rocks get wet—and they will be wet—they turn into ice. Don’t be too proud to “crab-walk” (scuttle on your butt and hands) down the steep sections. I did it for 60% of the descent. It’s not graceful, it’s not Instagrammable, but it beats a broken ankle.
- Respect the Signs (Even When They’re Annoying): I learned this the hard way on the Callery Gorge path. If a sign says “Impassable” or “Closed,” don’t pull a Rambo and try to push through. The West Coast handles massive landslides and “washouts” that can literally remove the ground from under your feet. If it’s closed, turn around. The asphalt road sucks, but it’s better than a rescue helicopter.
- Check the “Waiho River” Levels: The West Coast gets more rain in a day than some places get in a year. This track crosses several streams that can turn into raging torrents within an hour of rain starting. If the water looks “angry” or brown, or if you can hear boulders rolling underwater, do not cross.
- The “Golden Hour” Trap: Because the canopy is so thick, it gets dark on the trail much earlier than it does in town. If you start late, you should have a headlamp (or at least a fully charged phone). Trying to navigate those boulder fields in the dark is a recipe for a very long, cold night.
Roberts Point VS. Alex Knobb: Who Wins?
Which hiking trail near Franz Josef Glacier is the best choice?
When I rolled into Franz Josef, the West Coast weather gave me a narrow window of “maybe it won’t rain.” I only had time for one big mission. So, do you go for the legendary Alex Knob or the rugged Roberts Point?
I did what I always do: I asked a local. My host at Chateau Backpackers didn’t even pause. “Roberts Point,” he said. “Alex Knob is just a long, vertical slog through the trees. Roberts Point is an adventure.”
He was right. While Alex Knob takes you higher for that “birds-eye” view, Roberts Point puts you in the action with suspension bridges, waterfalls, and a face-to-face meeting with the ice.
Quick Comparison of the Two Trails
| Feature | Roberts Point Track | Alex Knob Track |
| Best For | Adrenaline & Variety | Panoramic Alpine Views |
| Time | 5–6 Hours (Round Trip) | 8–9 Hours (Full Day) |
| Elevation Gain | ~600 Meters | ~1,100 Meters |
| The Vibe | Bridges, Huts, & Scrambles | Consistent, Strenuous Climb |
| Glacier View | Close-up & Dramatic | High-altitude & Vast |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Roberts Point if: You want a “fun” hike. If you like crossing deep gorges on swinging bridges, scrambling over mossy rocks, and seeing a new waterfall every twenty minutes, this is your trail. It’s shorter but feels like more of a journey.
- Choose Alex Knob if: You are a glutton for punishment and want the highest possible vantage point. It’s a massive 1,100m vertical climb. If the sky is 100% clear, the view from the top is unbeatable, but it’s a long way to go if the clouds roll in.
My Take: If you’re like me and prefer a “spicy” trail with lots of different scenery, Roberts Point is the clear winner. Plus, you’ll actually have enough energy left to enjoy the hot tubs in town afterward.
Getting to the Roberts Point Trailhead
The Roberts Point Track starts at the Franz Josef Glacier car park, which is about 5km south of the main township. You have a few ways to get there, ranging from “easy” to “full-blown cardio.”
1. By Car (The Easiest Way)
If you have a rental, it’s a quick 10-minute drive. Head south from town, cross the big Waiho River bridge, and hang a left onto Glacier Access Road. Follow it all the way to the end.
- Pro Tip: This car park is notorious for break-ins. Don’t leave your valuables in plain sight—take your passport and wallet with you on the trail.
- Need Wheels? If you haven’t booked yet, I recommend Expedia. They compare all the local NZ companies so you don’t have to open twenty tabs to find a decent price.
2. Hitchhiking
I hitchhiked to and from the park three different times and never waited more than ten minutes. It’s safe, common, and a great way to meet locals or other travelers.
- The Catch: You need a flexible schedule. You might get a ride in thirty seconds, or you might play “car roulette” for twenty minutes. Use your judgment and stay safe!
3. On Foot (The “Extra Credit” Method)
You can walk directly from Franz Josef township. There’s a dedicated walking/cycling track (Te Ara a Waiau) that runs parallel to the road.
- Warning: This adds about 1 hour (5km) each way to your day. If you’re already planning to hike 5-6 hours on Roberts Point, your legs might not thank you for the extra 10km of asphalt.
4. Shuttles & Public Transport
- Intercity: Great for getting to Franz Josef from Queenstown or Greymouth, but they won’t drop you at the trailhead.
- Local Shuttles: Check with your hostel! Many places like Chateau Backpackers can help arrange a local lift or have a list of shuttle times.
Where To Stay Near Franz Josef
Franz Josef is a tiny mountain village, so no matter where you stay, you’re never more than a few minutes from the nearest trailhead or a cold beer. Since the West Coast weather is “moody” at best, I recommend booking a spot with a good lounge or a hot tub—you’ll likely need both.
The Budget Spots (Social & Sharp)
- Glow Worm Accommodation: This is the GOAT for solo travelers. It’s social but won’t keep you up all night. Plus, they still do the free evening soup and breakfast, which is basically a rite of passage for hikers in Franz.
- Haka House Franz Josef: If you want the price of a hostel but the aesthetic of a boutique hotel, go here. It’s ultra-modern, the beds are actually comfortable, and the kitchen is massive.
- Chateau Backpackers & Motel: This is where I stayed, and I loved the vibe. It’s right in the heart of the village and has a cozy lounge that is the perfect place to hide when the West Coast rain inevitably rolls in.
Mid-Range (Nature & Character)
- Rainforest Retreat: This is my favorite for “West Coast vibes.” You can stay in actual treehouses or huts tucked away in the ferns. Bonus: The on-site Monsoon Bar is the best spot in town for a post-hike pint.
- Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: If you’re done with shared kitchens and just want a professional buffet breakfast and a massive, warm bed, this is your spot. It’s reliable, clean, and right in the center of the action.
- Franz Josef Oasis: A quick 2-minute drive from the village center. It’s quieter and offers stunning mountain views—great if you have a rental car and want to escape the backpacker buzz.
The Splurge (You Deserve It!)
- Te Waonui Forest Retreat: This is the ultimate luxury reward. It’s an eco-resort built directly into the rainforest. If your budget allows, it’s a five-star cocoon that feels worlds away from the muddy trails.
- Glenfern Villas: Perfect for groups or families. These are self-contained villas with full kitchens, giving you plenty of floor space to spread out all your wet hiking gear to dry.
Pro Tip: If Franz Josef is fully booked (which happens often in peak season), check out the nearby Fox Glacier township. It’s only a 25-minute drive south and has a similarly great selection of lodges.
After The Hike: The Best West Coast Adventures
If your legs are officially cooked after Roberts Point, or if the West Coast “liquid sunshine” (rain) has canceled your hiking plans, don’t just sit in the hostel lounge. Some of the best experiences in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier happen when you let someone else take the lead.
Here are the top-rated experiences I recommend booking through Viator to round out your trip:
1. The Bucket List: Franz Josef Heli-Hike
If you have the cash, do this. Since you can’t actually step on the ice from the Roberts Point Track, a helicopter transfer is the only way to touch the blue ice.
- The Vibe: A scenic flight over the crevasses followed by a guided trek through ice caves.
- Pro Tip: Book this for your first morning in town. If it gets canceled due to wind, you’ll have a backup window the next day.
- Check Heli-Hike Availability & Prices Here.
- My Guide: Read my full guide to heli-hiking here.
2. The Adrenaline Hit: Skydive Franz Josef
If the hike wasn’t “spicy” enough for you, try jumping out of a plane at 18,000ft. You get views of the Tasman Sea on one side and the Southern Alps on the other.
- The Vibe: Terrifying, then legendary. It’s consistently voted one of the most scenic skydive spots in the world.
- Book the Ultimate Skydive Experience Here.
3. The Nature Fix: Okarito Lagoon Kayaking
Just a 20-minute drive from Franz Josef, Okarito is a total hidden gem. It’s New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland and is incredibly peaceful.
- The Vibe: Kayaking through mirrored water with the reflection of Mt. Cook in the distance. It’s the perfect “active recovery” day.
- Explore Okarito Kayak Tours Here.
4. The “Mirror” Walk: Lake Matheson (Fox Glacier)
You’ve seen the postcards—this is the lake that reflects the mountains perfectly. While you can walk it solo, a guided sunset tour adds a layer of local history and ensures you hit the best hidden viewpoints.
5. The Recovery: Glacier Hot Pools
After 6 hours of “crab-walking” through the mud, your muscles will be screaming. These pools are nestled in the rainforest and are the ultimate post-hike reward.
- The Vibe: Pure bliss. Think 38°C water surrounded by giant ferns and the sound of rain on the canopy.
- Grab your Hot Pool Entry Pass Here.
My Experience: Surprises, Slips, and the “Crab-Walk”
The “Bad Decision” That Started It All
My day didn’t start with the Roberts Point Track. It started with a heartbreak: my heli-hiking flight was canceled due to the classic, moody West Coast weather.
Instead of sulking, I decided to “send it” on foot. But then came the second bad decision of the day. I tried to skip the boring asphalt road by taking the Callery Gorge Path behind my hostel. It was a lush, emerald dream—until I hit a massive “Impassable” sign.
The Reality Check: I had to trek all the way back to town, defeated by a sign. By the time I actually reached the Roberts Point trailhead, my step count was already at 10km. My “relaxed” day was officially over.
The Ascent: Humbling and Bumbling
Crossing the Douglas Bridge felt like entering a different world. The rainforest here is thick, mossy, and smells like ancient earth. But don’t let the beauty fool you—the trail is a beast.
Because of the heavy rain the night before, every rock was a slip-hazard. I found myself sprawled on a slick rock early on, pride bruised and sleeve muddy. Just ahead, I watched a woman try to “ballerina” around a puddle, only to take a full-body plunge. It was a moment of pure, unscripted reality.
Pro Tip: Don’t try to look cute on this trail. You will get muddy. Embrace the mess.
Glacier’s Grand Reveal
For hours, it was just me and the rhythmic crunch of my boots. But as I neared the viewpoint, the solitude broke. Hikers appeared like moths to a flame.
At first, the wooden fence and picnic table felt like a man-made intrusion on my “raw adventure.” But then I looked up. The clouds parted like a curtain, and there it was: Franz Josef Glacier in all its colossal, icy glory. I sat there, smashed two Pam’s White Chocolate and Raspberry oat bars, and just stared. In that moment, the 10km of asphalt and the muddy sleeve were forgotten.
The Descent: Conversations and Crab-Walks
As the rain started to fall, the trail turned into a giant slide. I’m not ashamed to say I crab-walked 60% of the way down. Scuttling on your butt is a highly underrated safety technique.
The Best Part of Travel: On the way down, I found a “tribe.” We got lost in a boulder field together, laughed at our misadventures, and traded life stories while trying not to fall. By the time we hit the car park, one of the girls offered me a ride back to town.
The day ended exactly how a West Coast day should: in a hostel hot tub, sharing a drink with new friends and feeling every single kilometer in my legs.
FAQ: Hiking The Roberts Point Track
How difficult is the Roberts Point Track?
It is low key challenging. While not a technical rock climb, it requires high fitness to handle the 600m elevation gain and the uneven terrain. Expect slippery tree roots, boulder scrambles, and narrow boardwalks. If it has rained recently, the difficulty jumps significantly due to mud.
How long does the Roberts Point hike take?
The average time is 5 to 6 hours round trip from the glacier car park. If you are walking from Franz Josef township, add an extra 2 hours (10km) to your total day.
Can you see the glacier from the Roberts Point Track?
Yes! The final lookout provides one of the best “land-based” views of the Franz Josef Glacier. However, you cannot walk onto the ice from this trail. For that, you’ll need to book a Heli-Hike.
Is Roberts Point Track safe in the rain?
It can be, but it’s much more dangerous. The rocks become incredibly slick, and small streams can turn into “flash floods” across the path.
What is the difference between Roberts Point and Alex Knob?
Roberts Point is shorter (5-6 hours) and more adventurous, featuring suspension bridges and close-up glacier views. Alex Knob is a longer (8-9 hours), steady climb that offers a higher, panoramic “birds-eye” view of the entire valley.
Are there toilets on the Roberts Point Track?
No. The only toilets are located at the Franz Josef Glacier car park at the start of the trail. There are no facilities once you cross the Douglas Bridge.
Do I need hiking boots for Roberts Point?
Yes, or trail runners.
Is there cell service on the trail?
Coverage can be spotty. Download an offline map like Maps.me or Saily eSIM data before you leave the car park.
The West Coast of New Zealand doesn’t give away its beauty easily. You have to work for it. Sometimes, you have to “crab-walk” for it. And you definitely have to bring a sense of humor for when the weather gods decide to rain on your parade.
But standing at that lookout, watching the fog swirl around the blue ice while you smash a raspberry oat bar? That’s the “Raw Adventure” I live for.
Where are you heading next?
- If you’re chasing more peaks, check out my Sefton Bivouac Guide in Mount Cook Nationalpark.
- If you need a break from the mountains, find other epic spots to visit in my 2-Week South Island Roadtrip Itinerary.
- Or, if you’re staying on the West Coast, read my guide on the Copland Track to Welcome Flat Hut – probably my personal favorite in the area!
See you on the trail! — Sara
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