This track is best attempted in fine weather, due to unbridged stream crossings and rock slabs that are very slippery when wet/icy.
Car park to Hende’s Hut
The hike begins at the Franz Josef Glacier car park. Follow Douglas Walk, which is an easy, well-formed walking track, until you reach Douglas Bridge across the Waiho River.
Once you cross Douglas Bridge, this is the start of Roberts Point Track. It is a tramping track so is much rougher and less formed than Douglas Walk. There are many tree roots, rocks and slippery sections. You will need good fitness, sturdy hiking boots with good grip and confidence walking on tricky terrain.
Not long after crossing Douglas Bridge there is an unbridged crossing of Hugh Creek. This is the first of many unbridged creek crossings and they are not safe to cross in all conditions. Assess them carefully before crossing and only cross if you are confident that you can do so safely. If the creeks are running high, it is better to try this track another day.
The track winds up the true right of the Waiho (Franz Josef Glacier) Valley, over ice-carved rock and across many side streams to a viewpoint high above the glacial ice.
In around an hour, the track opens out onto ice smoothed rock outcrops at Hende's Hut. This historic hut is unsuitable for overnight accommodation, but it does provide a sheltered lunch spot.
Hende’s Hut to Roberts Point
After Hende’s Hut, the track leads along the historic Hende’s Gallery. This cantilevered and suspended balcony was originally constructed in 1907.
The track climbs through open scrubland to a high suspension bridge crossing Rope Creek. The track then continues steadily upwards to Roberts Point.
The views from the final lookout are well worth the effort with the glacier, sheer rock walls, waterfalls and mountain peaks all visible. Note that this is a lookout only and the track does not provide access onto the glacier.
The track passes over smooth, slippery slabs of rock in various places, particularly from Hende’s Hut onwards. These can be treacherous when wet or icy, approach them with caution and walk very carefully.
This is a dynamic landscape with many hazards, and several people have lost their lives on this hike. Stay on the track and the viewing platform to avoid steep drop-offs. Never attempt to cross the Waiho River without a bridge.
