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Lake · Fox Glacier, West Coast
Lake Matheson
Glacial lake about 5 km from the village of Fox Glacier, surrounded by forest. On calm mornings the dark water reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Trail around the lake.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lake Matheson
Lake Matheson (Te Ara Kairaumati) formed about 14,000 years ago, when the Fox Glacier retreated at the end of the last glaciation: a block of ice became buried in the moraine gravel and, as it melted, the ground sank and formed the lake. The water is dark, stained by tannins from the surrounding forest, which makes it a mirror when there is no wind.
On calm, clear mornings the lake reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, the country’s two highest mountains. A trail circles the lake through native forest, with bridges and viewing platforms. The best known is the Reflection Island viewpoint, where in the past visitors were taken by boat to wait for the water to be still.
The trail is flat and well maintained, suitable for all ages. The full circuit takes about 1.5 hours, but the first lookouts are about 20 minutes from the entrance. There is a café at the car park.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 hours for the full circuit; 40 minutes to the first lookouts, return.
Best time
Early morning, with clear skies and no wind, for the reflection. Late afternoon can also have calm water. With low clouds, the mountains disappear.
How to get there
It is about 5 km from the village of Fox Glacier, via Cook Flat Road, with parking at the trail entrance.
Tip
Check the forecast the night before and head out early: wind usually picks up mid-morning. Bring insect repellent for the sandflies.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lake Matheson
Where is Lake Matheson?
About 5 km from the village of Fox Glacier, on the West Coast, via Cook Flat Road.
How long is the Lake Matheson walk?
About 1.5 hours for the full circuit. The first lookouts are about 20 minutes from the entrance.
Why does Lake Matheson reflect the mountains?
The water is dark, stained by tannins from the forest, and when it is still on windless mornings it acts like a mirror.