Day 17: Franz Josef Glacier
Wow! Today’s exhilarating experience and breathtaking photos are thanks to Mama & Bo generously taking us with them on the “Granddaddy of Helicopter Rides”! Despite last night’s rain showers, the morning was perfectly clear, which meant our helicopter ride was on! Our flight took us over Franz Josef Glacier, along the Tasman Glacier, around Mt. Cook, and then landed on Fox Glacier before returning to the village.
Our route over the mountains – the red loop! Sunny skies over Franz Josef Glacier in the distance!
Our helicopter coming in to land! Lindsay’s boots in the front seat!
Bo enjoying the view of the ice falls on the Franz Josef Glacier
A majestic view of Mount Cook
Flying over the Fox Glacier
Landing on the Fox Glacier! These boots are going high & low in New Zealand!
Loving each other, and loving New Zealand
Once we came down from our high, we headed over to Fox Glacier Village for lunch at the Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon for some delicious pub fare, and some historic photos on the side.
A hungry group at the Cook Saddle
After lunch, we headed over to the Fox Glacier walking trail to view the glacier from the ground.
Walking up to the Fox Glacier on a sunny day
Lindsay & Igor walking in the glacial-carved valley
Even though it was getting cloudy, we decided to walk the Lake Matheson trail, where mirror-like reflections of Mt. Cook are famous. We are so glad we went – the clouds parted beautifully by the time we reached the look-outs!
The couples posing at Reflection Island
Artsy photos along the Lake Matheson Trail
It was an incredible day – thanks, Mama & Bo!!!
This brought back fond memories… We had done the same helicopter ride. And looks like you forgot to carry your sunglasses Igor? I felt blinded by the reflecting sunlight… 🙂 Love the blog – kudos Lindsay!