[2025 Fox Glacier Attraction] Travel Guide for Lake Matheson Walk (Updated Apr)

Lake Matheson is located in Fox Glacier Town and is a great addition to your glacier tour. The trail is about 4.5 km long and takes about 1.5 hours to walk around the lake. The trail is not very steep and the scenery is pleasant, making it suitable for both adults and children. There are 2-3 main viewpoints along the trail, the most famous of which is the Jetty Viewpoint. If the sun is shining, this is the best place to see the reflection of the Southern Alps. Lake Matheson is dark green in color and the water is calm, like a mirror. However, rainy days also have their own charm. The mist rises from the lake, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. The trail is undulating, sometimes going up the mountain by the lake, sometimes going down to the water's edge. The wooden walkways on the trail are covered with a hexagonal wire mesh anti-slip mat, which makes you feel safe. Some famous quotes are also decorated along the trail to encourage people to live in harmony with nature. The trees by the lake are bright green, and moss covers everywhere, creating a green world. If you are not careful, you may see wild chickens and ducks foraging by the lake, which is full of wildness. It is so comfortable to walk around the lake.

During our West Coast campervan trip, Lake Matheson was one of the highlights we couldn't wait to explore. We parked the campervan nearby and took a short walk through the lush forest, with the serene lake just around the corner. The weather was perfect, and the calm waters of the lake reflected the stunning surrounding mountains, creating a picture-perfect scene. It felt like stepping into a postcard, and we couldn’t resist snapping a few photos to capture the breathtaking beauty of the place. The tranquil atmosphere at Lake Matheson was the perfect break from our road trip. We strolled along the well-maintained pathways, enjoying the quiet and the scenic views at every turn. The reflective waters, with Mount Cook and Mount Tasman standing tall in the background, were simply mesmerizing. It was one of those moments when we felt completely connected to nature, and it added a special touch to our West Coast adventure. Lake Matheson was a peaceful and unforgettable stop on our journey. #mountainhike #travel #westcoast #campervan #lake #lakes #lakematheson

Visiting Lake Matheson was mesmerizing; the still waters perfectly reflected the surrounding mountains, creating an unforgettable mirror image of nature’s beauty. Exploring Franz Josef Glacier was equally breathtaking. The icy landscape felt otherworldly, with towering ice formations and an awe-inspiring sense of raw natural power. I would definitely visit again with friends and family. #2024mapped #travel #couplestrip #newzealand #franzjosefglacier #lakematheson