Lake Matheson

Famous for mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, Lake Matheson is nestled in ancient forest just 5 km from Fox Glacier Weheka.

Lake Matheson was formed when Fox Glacier Te Moeka o Tuawe retreated from its last significant advance about 14 000 years ago.

Lake Matheson’s excellent mirror-like reflecting properties are due to the dark brown colour of the water, the result of organic matter leached from the humus of the forest floor.

Car park to jetty viewpoint

• Time: 40 min return car park to jetty.
• Distance: 1 km return car park to jetty.

The first section of the walk to the jetty viewpoint is suitable for assisted wheelchairs.

After crossing the Clearwater suspension bridge, the walk to the jetty viewpoint takes you past tall kahikatea and rimu as well as a rich profusion of smaller plant varieties.

The jetty provides a magnificent mountain view reflected in the dark waters.

Lake circuit

• Time: 1 hr 30 min return lake circuit.
• Distance: 2.6 km return lake circuit.

After walking to the jetty viewpoint continue further around the lake.

You will find a similarly magnificent mountain reflection shrouded in native foliage at the top end of the lake, and again at Reflection Island.

Dawn and dusk are generally the best viewing times as the lake is generally calm.