Rob Roy Glacier Guided Walk from Wanaka: A Day Hike into Mt Aspiring National Park
Take a single-day guided walk from Wanaka into Mt Aspiring National Park to reach the Rob Roy Glacier viewpoint. This accessible alpine trek moves from riverbanks to beech forest and open herbfields, offering dramatic glacier views with local-guide insight and a gourmet lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear waterproof boots
Trail sections can be wet and slippery after rain; ankle-supporting waterproof hiking boots improve traction on roots and alpine scree.
Bring at least 1.5–2L water
There are no reliable water sources certified for drinking on the upper track—carry enough for the day and a light snack for the summit stop.
Use provided hiking poles if unsure
Poles help on steep or muddy descents and reduce strain on knees during the return to the valley.
Start early and layer
Weather shifts quickly in the alpine; dawn departures give better light and more stable conditions—dress in layers and pack a waterproof shell.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Raspberry Hut area: quiet viewpoint upstream from the main track where locals picnic.
- •Short side-scan near the swing bridge: early morning can reveal reflections of the beech canopy in the Matukituki pools.
Wildlife
- •Kereru (New Zealand wood pigeon)
- •New Zealand falcon (kārearea)
Conservation Note
Mt Aspiring National Park is managed for both recreation and conservation—stay on formed tracks and pack out all waste to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
The Matukituki Valley was a travel and food-gathering route for Māori and later used for high-country pastoral runs; Raspberry Hut stands as an old shepherd’s shelter.
Photographer's Notes
- • Alpine herbfields just above the beech treeline (wide glacier panorama)
- • Swing bridge over the Matukituki (river reflections and canopy)
- • Raspberry Hut approach (foreground interest with valley backdrop)
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Protects feet on wet boardwalks, rooty beech sections, and loose alpine scree.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and warm in sudden alpine showers and wind.
Daypack (20–30L)Essential
Carries water, layers, lunch, camera, and emergency kit comfortably.
Camera with polarizer
Reduces glare on water and ice, and enhances contrast for wide glacier shots.
Common Questions
How long is the walk to the Rob Roy Glacier viewpoint?
Expect about 2.5 hours one-way to the open alpine vantage point; the full return walk is roughly 9 km and typically takes around 5 hours on foot.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes—provided you have a moderate fitness level and can walk uneven terrain for several hours; the guided format helps with pacing and route-finding.
Do I need to bring food and water?
The tour supplies a gourmet lunch and refreshments, but you should still bring at least 1.5–2 liters of personal water and any extra snacks you prefer.
Will we see the glacier up close?
You’ll reach a viewpoint on open alpine ground with a clear panorama of Rob Roy Glacier; accessing the ice itself is not part of this walk.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator cancels if conditions are unsafe; check their cancellation policy and they recommend layered clothing as weather can change rapidly.
Is transport included from Wanaka?
Yes—courtesy pick-up and drop-off from Wanaka accommodation is included; confirm your pickup location when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–9 hours
Location
Wanaka, Otago
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: you should be comfortable hiking 4–6 hours over uneven ground with some steep sections.
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