21.30 Franz Josef Glacier: Robert's Point Hike, 'slip sliding away': And a few closing shots.
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 g...