The Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike

The Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike offers an unforgettable adventure into the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s largest glacier. Soaring over 7,000 feet by skiplane, adventurers embark on a guided exploration of the glacier’s dynamic ice formations and towering walls, equipped with crampons and harnesses for safety. With a maximum group size of six, this personalized experience allows hikers to fully appreciate the glacier’s power and beauty – a unique alternative to traditional tours. What challenges and wonders await those who dare to venture to the top of the Tasman Glacier?

Key Points

• The Wigley hike offers a unique glacier exploration experience, starting with a skiplane flight to the Tasman Glacier’s upper snowfield at over 7,000 feet.
• Experienced mountain guides provide expert leadership, equipment like crampons and harnesses, and guidance to safely navigate the glacier’s dynamic ice formations.
• The hike allows adventurous travelers to discover the Tasman Glacier’s vast scale, intricate ice patterns, and witness the power of glacial processes up close.
• The hike is an alternative to traditional helicopter and bus tours, providing a personalized and immersive exploration of New Zealand’s largest glacier.
• With comprehensive safety measures, including quality gear and certified guides, the hike ensures an unforgettable and secure glacier adventure for participants of moderate physical fitness.

Overview of the Hike

The Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike offers adventurous travelers an exhilarating experience to explore New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Located in the South Island, the hike begins with a thrilling skiplane flight over 7,000 feet to the glacier’s upper snowfield. This unique vantage point provides a breathtaking view of the Tasman Glacier, which stretches for over 23 kilometers.

Once on the glacier, hikers have the chance to discover remarkable ice formations and witness the sheer scale of this natural wonder.

This tour is an ideal alternative to more traditional helicopter rides and bus tours, catering to those seeking a more immersive and adventurous glacier experience.

Exploring the Glacier

Upon reaching the glacier’s upper snowfield, hikers embark on an unforgettable exploration of the remarkable ice formations that adorn the Tasman Glacier.

Guided by experienced New Zealand Mountain Guides Association-certified experts, they navigate the icy terrain, marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder.

Donning provided crampons, harnesses, and adjustable walking poles, they carefully traverse the glacier’s surface, discovering intricate patterns, towering ice walls, and mesmerizing glacial features.

The hike offers an up-close perspective of the dynamic processes that shape this colossal river of ice, leaving participants with a deep appreciation for the power and grandeur of New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Adventure-Seeker’s Delight

For adventure-seekers looking to explore the Tasman Glacier beyond the typical helicopter rides and bus tours, the Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike offers an unparalleled experience.

Guided by a certified mountain guide, hikers can discover the glacier’s remarkable ice formations up close.

The experience includes a thrilling skiplane flight over 7,000 feet to the glacier’s upper snowfield, where travelers can don provided equipment like crampons and harnesses to safely navigate the icy terrain.

This adventure-packed excursion caters to those seeking an alternative to more conventional glacier tours, delivering an unforgettable exploration of New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Safety and Equipment

Guided by a New Zealand Mountain Guides Association-certified guide, the hike prioritizes safety with provided equipment like crampons, harnesses, and quality leather boots to navigate the glacier’s icy terrain.

Travelers are outfitted with:

1. Woollen socks to keep feet warm and dry.

2. Waterproof jackets and trousers to protect against the elements.

3. Adjustable walking poles for added stability and traction.

4. Snow shoes or crampons to ensure a secure grip on the glacier.

This comprehensive gear, combined with the guide’s expertise, ensures a thrilling yet secure exploration of the remarkable ice formations atop the Tasman Glacier, one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Meeting Point and Access

The meeting point for the Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike is at the Mount Cook Airport, located on Mount Cook Road in Canterbury 7999, New Zealand.

The hike is accessible via State Highway 8 near Lake Pukaki, just 8 km from the town of Twizel and 50 km from Lake Tekapo.

After the guided hike, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

This accessibility makes the Wigley a convenient option for adventurous travelers seeking an alternative to typical helicopter rides and bus tours in the area.

With precise directions and a straightforward meeting location, getting to the starting point of this one-of-a-kind glacier experience is a breeze.

Logistics and Confirmation

Travelers can expect to receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. The hike accommodates a maximum of 6 participants per tour, ensuring a personalized experience on the glacier.

Getting to the meeting point at Mount Cook Airport is easy, with the location accessible via SH8 near Lake Pukaki, just 8 km from Twizel and 50 km from Lake Tekapo. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end.

To prepare, participants are advised to bring:

1. 3-4 layers of warm clothing

2. Warm trousers (no jeans)

3. Sunglasses and sun protection

4. Snacks and drinks

The trip is dependent on weather conditions, and moderate physical fitness is required with no serious medical conditions.

Packing Recommendations

When packing for the Tasman Glacier hike, you’ll want to bring 3-4 layers of warm clothing and opt for warm trousers instead of jeans.

Sunglasses and sun protection are also essential, and don’t forget to pack some snacks and drinks to fuel your adventure.

A warm hat and gloves are must-haves, as the glacier can get quite chilly.

The guided tour provides all the necessary hiking equipment, like crampons, harnesses, and adjustable walking poles, so you can travel light.

Just focus on dressing comfortably and being prepared for the changeable weather.

With the right gear, you’ll be ready to explore the glacier’s remarkable ice formations safely and enjoy the stunning scenery to the fullest.

Trip Ratings and Reviews

With a stellar rating of 5.0 based on 16 reviews, the Tasman Glacier hike has clearly captivated adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable glacial experience in New Zealand’s stunning South Island.

Reviewers rave about the tour, highlighting:

1. The breathtaking views from the skiplane flight over the glacier’s upper snowfield.

2. The opportunity to explore the glacier’s remarkable ice formations up close.

3. The expert guidance of the certified mountain guide, ensuring a safe and informative adventure.

4. The high-quality equipment provided, allowing travelers to focus on the experience without worrying about gear.

Given the consistently positive feedback, it’s no surprise this hike tops many travelers’ bucket lists for an authentic taste of New Zealand’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trip Suitable for Children?

The trip may not be suitable for children. It requires moderate physical fitness and involves navigating over glaciers, which can be hazardous. The activity is better suited for adventure-seeking adults.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear?

Yes, travelers can bring their own hiking gear if they prefer. The tour company provides the necessary equipment, but allows participants to use their own gear if it meets the safety standards required for the hike.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hike?

As per the information provided, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the hike. The tour appears to be a pre-determined package that includes a skiplane flight to the glacier’s upper snowfield and a guided exploration of the remarkable ice formations.

What Is the Cancellation Policy?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseeable circumstances. Customers should check the specifics when booking to understand the provider’s cancellation terms.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions being accommodated. However, it’s recommended that travelers bring their own snacks and drinks to ensure their dietary needs are met during the hike.

Recap

The Wigley: Top of the Tasman Glacier Hike offers an unforgettable adventure on New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Combining scenic flights, expert guidance, and thrilling exploration of the ice, this personalized tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the glacier’s awe-inspiring beauty and power.

With safety equipment and small group sizes, adventure-seekers can discover the dynamic glacial landscape in an immersive and responsible manner.