Up close, the reality. It shows a dirtier side of the glacier.
In our most dangerous hike on this trip, we set out along a level, well-manicured path.
'Where's the challenge?" We asked ourselves. We thought this was rated tricky and a little dangerous.
Not that we seek danger but the hike was supposed to be challenging. Then we noticed a sign that pointed
out recent deaths on the trail. Thereafter, we began to climb and descend on slippery and rocky sections
throughout the rainforest. On the 7-mile hike that never seemed to end, we were put through our paces.
The cumulative gain may have been 2,200 feet but it was a tough experience. When we broke the tree line
eventually, we arrived at the viewing point. Before us, stood (or flowed) a magnificent glacier, Franz Josef.
We had seen it the previous day from a more convenient spot.
Action scene above the glacier. For a mere $350, you can have a bird's eye view.
Two eyes, $700, I suppose.
Jenni goes swinging. There is doubt she was a happy girl during the crossing.
Preparing for a very tricky and slippery slope. Editor did not consider it a good idea for me to take
a photo with one hand while pulling on rope with other. Editor turns cautious (sensible).
The glacier is a major tourist attraction. These days, besides the hike to Roberts Point,
the only way to get up close is by way of helicopter. We heard the choppers while we were ascending
and saw them from our eventual vantage point. They transport people over and onto the glacier.
Watching them fly about the glacier and land is an added benefit of being at the trail end.
On our first trip to New Zealand, we hiked on the glacier. It was a memorable experience but not one
for which we pine to repeat.
Notice the strong flow of water at mid-right of the picture. There are a number of people on the
glacier, too.
An example of a partial view of a waterfall with helicopter coming in close.
At last, we reach the viewpoint. Fortunately, the focus is the glacier not 'ole sunshine' in the front.
The trail is a swingers paradise. We crossed about five or six of these suspension bridges that
swing and sway, causing little heart flutters for the editor, sometimes very big ones. There is a limit
to the number of people allowed to cross a bridge simultaneously, anywhere from one to five. A couple
of them were relatively long, providing a different perspective a little above the forest canopy.
Interestingly, a week after we hiked the track, the Department of Conservation closed the trail. I hope
we did not damage it in any way although I had one fall in which I thought damage was done to me. Fortunately,
I was wrong again.
Can't scare the editor. Her husband, now that's different.
New Zealand is not the only land of scary signs. This one is from New Hampshire, designed by the
tourist board. Their new campaign slogan, "Where have all the tourists gone?"
A last look at Franz Josef as we contemplate the very tricky descent down a slippery path,
often a stream through and over rocks.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Later in the week, we will post a video of photographs from the New Zealand adventure. Meantime, enjoy
these last views from a beautiful and dynamic land.
Lake Manapouri, South Island.
Sunset over Lake Wakatipu.
Sun filtering over Lake Te Anau, Mount Luxmore Hut.
Earland Falls on the Routeburn track.
Sun and cloud rise over the Kepler Track
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