Alex Knob Track is a full-day return hike located near Franz Josef township on New Zealand’s West Coast. The trail climbs steadily to approximately 1,303 meters (4,275 ft), offering elevated views over Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding Southern Alps. This post is a detailed guide of the Alex Knob Hike.
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Table of Contents
- Alex Knob Overview
- Alex Knob Track Details
- How Hard is the Alex Knob Hike?
- Getting to the Alex Knob Trailhead (Parking & Access)
- What Time Should You Start?
- What to Expect on the Trail
- Is Alex Knob Worth It?
- What to Pack for the Alex Knob Hike
- Important Callouts About the Alex Knob Hike
- Robert’s Point – An Alternative to the Alex Knob Hike
- Other Hikes Near Alex Knob (Franz Josef)
- FAQ: Alex Knob Hike Franz Josef
- Pin this post for later!
Alex Knob Overview
The Alex Knob Hike is one of the (if not THE) most physically demanding day hikes in the Franz Josef area. The track climbs steadily from near sea level to approximately 1,303 meters (4,275 feet) at the summit. The hike transitions from dense rainforest to alpine tussock as you gain elevation. Unlike shorter glacier walks in the area, this hike is about endurance and elevation rather than technical terrain.
Alex Knob Track Details
- Distance: Approx. 17 km return
- Time: 6–8 hours return
- Elevation gain: ~1,100 m
- Track type: Out and back
- Difficulty: Hard
The climb is consistent from the start. There are very few flat sections, and the elevation gain is significant for a day hike.
How Hard is the Alex Knob Hike?
The Alex Knob hike is considered hard due to:
- Sustained uphill climbing
- Significant elevation gain
- Root-heavy and often muddy terrain
- Exposure near the summit
It is not technical mountaineering. There are no ropes or specialized climbing skills required but the uphill is no joke. You should be comfortable hiking for 6–8 hours and climbing steadily for several hours without extended breaks in gradient. The Alex Knob hike is not ideal for beginners, those with knee issues (especially on descent), or anyone short on time.
Getting to the Alex Knob Trailhead (Parking & Access)
If you’re planning the Alex Knob hike in Franz Josef, access is straightforward. The trail begins close to town. Technically you can walk to the trailhead from town but I recommend driving because trust me, you don’t need the extra distance before or after a long, uphill hike. The trailhead starts at Franz Josef Glacier Road (before the Franz Josef Glacier Walk Car Park). If you’re using Google Maps, search: “Alex Knob Track car park”. Parking is free but limited. So come early to get a spot.
What Time Should You Start?
Allow 6–8 hours for the Alex Knob hike. A good rule of thumb:
- Summer: Start by 7-8 am
- Winter: Start earlier to allow for shorter daylight
Cloud often builds later in the day, so an earlier start can improve your chances of clear views over Franz Josef Glacier (however, starting early is not a guarantee for unobstructed views)
What to Expect on the Trail
Lower Section
- Dense forest
- Tree roots and uneven footing
- Often muddy, even in dry weather
- Gradual uphill and switchbacks
This section was truly beautiful but watch where you are going. The roots and mud demand your full attention! It’s quite humid in this section and I regretted wearing a long sleeve tee-shirt. You may have to climb sometimes over or go under huge tree trucks. The path is narrow and has uphill switchbacks.
Mid Section
- Steeper ascent
- Narrower track
- Increasing exposure
You may start to see patches of snow even in the summer (especially early summer). There are 2 lookout points before the summit and you will find these in this sort of middle sections. They are Rata Lookout and Christmas Lookout. These provide progressively better views of Franz Josef Glacier and can serve as turnaround points if weather or energy levels limit your hike OR your goal was just to get to a somewhat higher elevation to see the glacier.
Upper Section
- Transition above the tree line
- Alpine tussock
- Open views (weather dependent)
Near the summit, the track becomes more exposed. Conditions can be windy and cold even if the town below is calm. Weather changes quickly on the West Coast. Low cloud frequently sits over Franz Josef Glacier. If cloud cover is heavy, views from the summit of the glacier itself may be limited BUT the surroundings are still beautiful. Where else in the world do you get to see rain forest, the sea, snow capped mountains, a river and a glacier all in one view! The weather at the summit was quite chilly.
Is Alex Knob Worth It?
Alex Knob is worth it if:
- You want the highest non-technical day-hike viewpoint over Franz Josef Glacier
- You enjoy long, physically demanding climbs
- The weather forecast is clear
On a clear day, you’ll get:
- Panoramic views of Franz Josef Glacier
- Wide views over the glacial valley
- Surrounding Southern Alps peaks
If you only have one day in Franz Josef and conditions are unstable, shorter glacier walks may be a safer choice.
What to Pack for the Alex Knob Hike
Packing properly makes a big difference in comfort and safety on this hike.
Essential Gear
1. Waterproof Jacket
The West Coast is one of the wettest regions in New Zealand. Even if rain isn’t forecast, weather can shift quickly. I even got hailed on at the end of the hike!
2. Proper Hiking Shoes or Boots
The track is root-heavy and often muddy. Trail runners with a good grip are fine, but lightweight sneakers are not recommended. I wore my Salomon hiking shoes and I do recommend proper hiking shoes if you have them.
3. 1.5–2 Liters of Water
There are no reliable treated water sources on the track.
4. Food for 6–8 Hours
The summit is an ideal spot to refuel. Just remember to bring a trash bag to take everything back with you.
5. Warm Layer
Even in summer, the summit area can be windy and significantly cooler than town.
6. Sun Protection
These are especially necessary for
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat
Recommended Extras
- Hiking poles (helpful on descent)
- Offline map downloaded (cell service is limited)
- Lightweight gloves in cooler months
- Headlamp if starting early or concerned about slower pace
Important Callouts About the Alex Knob Hike
Rain
The west coast of New Zealand gets a lot of rain throughout the year. Don’t attempt this hike in heavy rain or if you are not used to hiking in the rain.
Cloud Cover
Even on crystal clear days, the clouds start to roll in along the valley by mid-day and cover the view of the glacier. While certainly not a guarantee, one way to avoid this is to start hiking early morning. If you have cloud cover at the summit, wait for a bit to see if it will clear. Some times you maybe able to tell by the way the wind is moving the clouds.
Mental Framing
Do this hike because you love to hike! This way you won’t be disappointed if the view is covered by clouds. The other views from the summit like the valley below, the snow capped mountains and the aqua blue sea are still impressive!
Robert’s Point – An Alternative to the Alex Knob Hike
Robert’s Point Track is a challenging half- to full-day hike near Franz Josef. It provides one of the closest elevated viewpoints of Franz Josef Glacier that can be reached without helicopter access.
Alex Knob vs Robert’s Point
Key Differences
Alex Knob
- ~17 km return
- ~1,100 m elevation gain
- Higher elevation
- Wider panoramic views
- More physically demanding
Robert’s Point
- ~11 km return
- ~600–700 m elevation gain
- Closer visual angle of Franz Josef Glacier
- Suspension bridges and scrambling
- Shorter but more varied terrain
Both are weather dependent, but Alex Knob is more physically demanding overall.
Robert’s Point vs Alex Knob: Direct Comparison
| Feature | Robert’s Point Track | Alex Knob Track |
|---|---|---|
| Distance (Return) | ~11 km | ~17 km |
| Time Required | 5–7 hours | 6–8 hours |
| Elevation Gain | ~600–700 m | ~1,100 m |
| Difficulty | Hard | Hard (more physically demanding) |
| Terrain | Muddy forest, roots, bridges, scrambling | Steep sustained climb, forest to alpine |
| Exposure | Some exposed sections near lookout | More exposed near summit |
| View Type | Closer, dramatic glacier angle | Higher, wider panoramic view |
| Best For | Adventurous hikers wanting glacier proximity | Strong hikers wanting elevation + big panoramas |
| Weather Sensitivity | High (cloud blocks glacier view) | Very high (cloud blocks summit views) |
| Physical Demand | Moderate-to-high | High |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Alex Knob if you:
- Want higher elevation and big panoramic views
- Have strong endurance
- Prefer a sustained climb
Choose Robert’s Point if you:
- Want a shorter but still challenging hike
- Prefer more varied terrain features
- Want a closer visual angle of the glacier
Other Hikes Near Alex Knob (Franz Josef)
Read my full post about Franz Josef that includes other (mostly easier) hikes in and around Franz Josef. HERE is the post!
FAQ: Alex Knob Hike Franz Josef
How long is the Alex Knob hike in Franz Josef?
The Alex Knob hike is about 17 km (10.5 miles) return and typically takes 6–8 hours depending on pace and conditions.
What is the elevation gain on the Alex Knob Track?
The Alex Knob Track has approximately 1,100 m (3,600+ ft) of elevation gain, climbing from near sea level to around 1,303 meters.
How hard is the Alex Knob hike?
Alex Knob is a hard day hike due to the sustained uphill climb, long duration, and muddy, root-filled terrain. It’s not technical, but it is physically demanding.
Is Alex Knob worth it?
Alex Knob is worth it if you have clear weather and want high panoramic views over Franz Josef Glacier. If cloud is low or rain is heavy, views may be limited and the hike may not feel worth the effort.
What are the views like from Alex Knob?
On a clear day, Alex Knob offers elevated views of Franz Josef Glacier, the glacial valley, and surrounding Southern Alps peaks. Views are highly weather dependent.
Is Alex Knob or Robert’s Point better?
Alex Knob is better for higher elevation and wider panoramic views. Robert’s Point is better for a shorter, more varied track with bridges and scrambling and a closer angle of the glacier.
Can you do Alex Knob in bad weather?
It’s not recommended. Heavy rain increases mud and slip risk, and low cloud can remove the main payoff. Alex Knob is best attempted on a stable forecast with good visibility.
Do you need hiking boots for Alex Knob?
Boots are recommended because the track can be muddy and uneven, but grippy trail runners can work in dry conditions. Avoid casual sneakers.
How early should you start the Alex Knob Track?
Start early enough to allow a full 6–8 hour window and daylight buffer. An early start also improves your chances of clearer views before cloud builds.
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