Peters Pool Walk, Franz Josef’s Mirror Lake
Peters Pool walk in Franz Josef, in the West Coast Region of the South Island, is an easy, short walk to a stunning reflective pool with views of mountains and glacial valleys.
In this story we share how to get there, what you will see, and why you should not miss this fully accessible short walk.
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Franz Josef
Many travellers briefly stop at Franz Josef in the West Coast Region to see the glacier. Some choose to stay overnight, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre, and explore the small village.
However, the Westland Tai Poutini National Park surrounding the area is expansive, covering 1320 square kilometres from the peaks of the Southern Alps to the sea. There are many walking trails where you can fully immerse yourself in some of the best natural wonders in the world, including glaciers, lakes, and rainforests. Peters Pool is one of those trails.
Don’t miss the best things to see and do in Franz Josef. Click on the link and bookmark to read later.
Peters Pool
Peters Pool is a small kettle lake formed over 200 years ago from ice melting from the retreating glacier.
If you enjoy reflective pools and visit on a calm, windless day, you will see a dramatic mountain view reflected in the pool.
During the winter and adjacent seasons, the snow-covered mountains add to the grandeur, and it’s even more breathtaking on glorious sunny days.
The great thing about this Franz Josef walk is that it is quick and rewarding.
Getting to Peters Pool Walk
To reach the walk, drive south of Franz Josef town and cross the Waiho River bridge. After the bridge, turn left and follow the Glacier Acess Road for 4 km. At the end of the road, you will reach a car park.
The walk begins at the same car park as the Franz Josef Glacier Walk, which takes you to the glacier viewpoint.
Our top pick for the best walks in Franz Josef is the Franz Josef Glacier Walk, offering breathtaking views of both the glacier and the lush rainforest. Click the link & read next to find out the best time to go and our insider travel tips.
A few metres adjacent to the Franz Josef Glacier trail, you will find a sign for Peters Pool. The sign says the return walk is 25 minutes (1.1km). However, we found it takes under 15 minutes, and we are not fast walkers.
Twenty minutes should give you time to take in the view and take some photos.
There are seats in front of the lake where you can rest while admiring the view. It’s a tranquil spot, so it’s a great place to bring a packed lunch.
From this spot, you can continue onto the Douglas Walk, which takes you through the ancient glacial moraine to the historic Douglas Bridge. The 50-minute walk allows you to return via a different path.
Additionally, the 5-hour return walk, Roberts Point Track, continues from this point.
Otherwise, you return the same way you came.
Is Peters Pool Walk Worth Doing?
It’s a very short, easy walk on a wide gravel path through the rainforest, so if you’re hesitant, you should definitely do it.
The walk provides a unique perspective and view of the snow-covered mountains surrounding the glacier, offering more natural beauty and fewer crowds.
However, note that besides a glimpse of the glacier from the path to the pool, you can’t see it from the pool.
Regarding our short walks ranking system, we give this walk an 8 out of 10. We awarded extra points because it is a short, easy walk that leads to a dramatic finale.
New Zealand South Island Travel Insider Guide tip: If you are staying overnight in Franz Josef and love photography, why not visit Peters Pool at sunset and sunrise? Your photos will have some dramatic colours and tones!
If you love scenic views from reflective pools, don’t miss the must-do Lake Matheson Walk, South Island’s best lake walk! Click the link for information on how to get there, the best time to visit, and what you will see every step of the way.
