‌

The road to Milford Sound: Routes from Queenstown, Te Anau & attractions along the way

Milford Sound is a journey as much as a destination. The drive takes you through glacier-carved valleys, shimmering lakes, and alpine passes before arriving at the world-famous fjord.

Choose between:

  • Queenstown to Milford Sound (288 km | ~4 hours one-way, ~12–13 hrs return with stops)
  • Te Anau to Milford Sound (121 km | ~2 hours one-way, ~7–9 hrs return with stops)

👉 Not driving? Explore guided tours from Queenstown or Te Anau, or save time with a scenic flight.

Route 1: Queenstown to Milford Sound

queenstown to milford sound route

A long but rewarding alpine drive (~4 hrs without stops). Key highlights include:

  • Wye Creek Track: 7 km forest walk with Lake Wakatipu views.
  • Devil’s Staircase Lookout: Dramatic lake and mountain panoramas.
  • Kingston: A quiet lakeside town, good for a rest stop.
  • Garston Hunny Shop: Taste local honey and pick up souvenirs.
  • Te Anau: The last major town before the fjord, stock up on all essentials here.

Route 2: Te Anau to Milford Sound

Map of Milford Track route from Te Anau to Milford Sound, highlighting key stops like Homer Tunnel and Mirror Lakes.

Shorter, but packed with iconic stops along State Highway 94 (Milford Road). Must-sees:

  • Eglinton Valley: Wide grassy valley framed by mountains.
  • Mirror Lakes: Famous for perfect reflections of the Earl Mountains.
  • Monkey Creek: Spot Kea parrots, fill your bottle with pure glacier water.
  • Lake Gunn Nature Walk: 45-min loop through Fiordland beech forest.
  • The Divide: Trailhead for Key Summit Track.
  • Homer Tunnel: A 1.2 km engineering marvel through the mountains.
  • The Chasm: Short walk to roaring waterfalls and sculpted rock formations.
Mirror Lakes view on the way from Te Anau to Milford Sound during a scenic cruise tour.

Mirror Lakes

Famous for their stunning reflections of the Earl Mountains, the Mirror Lakes are a must-see stop along the route. A short boardwalk allows you to easily access this beautiful natural feature.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 40 km

Monkey Creek view with snow-capped mountains in Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Monkey Creek

A popular spot for travelers to see native Kea parrots, Monkey Creek also offers pristine drinking water straight from the source. It's an excellent place for a quick break and to enjoy the surrounding nature.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 30 km

Lake Gunn Nature Walk with lush forest and mountain views in Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Lake Gunn Nature Walk

This 45-minute loop winds through lush beech forests to the shores of Lake Gunn. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching and soaking in Fiordland's tranquility​.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 44 km

Milford Road winding through The Divide in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park.

The Divide

The lowest mountain pass on the Milford Road, The Divide is a starting point for several trails, including the Key Summit hike. The panoramic views of the Southern Alps are worth a brief stop.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 27 km

Homer Tunnel entrance in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, surrounded by lush mountains.

Homer Tunnel

This impressive engineering feat is a 1,219-meter-long tunnel that cuts through the mountains on your way to Milford Sound. The tunnel provides access to stunning views on both sides and marks your approach to the fjord.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 15 km

The Chasm Fall cascading through lush forest in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, New Zealand.

The Chasm

A short walk leads to this spectacular rock chasm formed by the rushing waters of the Cleddau River. The area features impressive waterfalls and sculpted rock formations, making it an exciting stop for nature lovers.

Distance from Milford Sound: Approximately 10 km

All the ways you can explore Milford Sound

Milford Sound cruise boat on water with surrounding mountains, Te Anau to Milford return transfers.
Milford Sound cruise with scenic mountain views and lush greenery, Queenstown day trip.
Milford Sound cruise boat on water with surrounding mountains, Te Anau to Milford tour.
Milford Sound aerial view with cruise ship, Queenstown scenic flyover experience.
Milford Sound cruise boat with scenic fjord views, lush mountains, and waterfalls, New Zealand day trip.
1/5

Self exploration

Traveling independently allows you to set your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. You can drive through the scenic Milford Road, stopping at viewpoints and attractions like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, making it a personalized adventure.

Day trips from Queenstown

Guided tours typically include transportation, allowing you to relax while enjoying the stunning scenery. Many tours offer additional activities such as boat cruises or kayaking, providing a comprehensive experience of Milford Sound in a single day.

Read more

Day trips from Te Anau

Similar to tours from Queenstown, these trips offer a shorter travel time to Milford Sound. They often include scenic stops, like Fiordland National Park, along the way and can be tailored to include various activities, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Read more

Scenic flights from Queenstown

Take to the skies and witness Milford Sound’s majestic landscapes from above. This premium experience offers unmatched aerial views of the fjords, glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks, perfect for photography enthusiasts and time-sensitive travelers.

Read more

Boat cruises

Cruise the waters of Milford Sound via boat tours to get up close to waterfalls like Stirling Falls and experience the fiord's dramatic cliffs and marine wildlife, like seals and dolphins. Many tours also offer commentary on the area's history and ecology.

Read more

Where to stay for your Milford Sound trip

Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels Queenstown

1 day: Day trip base

  • Queenstown: Big city choice, longest day (12–13 hrs return)
  • Te Anau: Closer base, shorter day (7–9 hrs return)
  • Best for: Travelers short on time who want a cruise + road trip in one day
Book day tours to Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cascade Creek campsite with tents and lush forest backdrop.

2 days | Overnight in Te Anau

  • Lakeside town with shops, restaurants, and glowworm caves
  • Variety of stays: motels, lodges, holiday parks, campgrounds
  • Easy drive to Milford the next morning
  • Best for: A relaxed pace, families, and first-time visitors
Book Milford Sound cruises
Milford Sound Lodge nestled among lush mountains and serene waters in New Zealand.

3+ days | Stay inside Fiordland

  • Milford Sound Lodge: Chalets, cabins, campervan sites
  • Mitre Peak Lodge: Cozy lodge near the cruise terminal with fjord views
  • Cascade Creek Campsite: Budget DOC site by Lake Gunn
  • Best for: Immersive trips, sunrise at Mitre Peak, late cruises, and stargazing
More Milford Sound lodging options

Frequently asked questions about Milford Sound maps and routes

What are the routes to Milford Sound?

The main routes are from Queenstown (approximately 600 km round trip) and Te Anau (240 km round trip), both offering stunning scenery along the way.

Which is the fastest way to reach Milford Sound?

Taking a flight to Milford Sound is the best option, taking approximately 40 minutes from Queenstown, compared to a 4-hour drive. The fastest route via road is from Te Anau, which takes about 2 hours.

What are the different tour options available?

Options include day trips from Queenstown or Te Anau, scenic flights, and boat tours. Each tour offers unique perspectives of Milford Sound.

What are must-visit spots along the way?

Key spots on the way to Milford Sound include Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, The Chasm, and Homer Tunnel. These attractions provide stunning landscapes, natural wonders, breathtaking views, and great photo opportunities.

Are there guided tours from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

Yes, several guided tours operate from Te Anau, providing transportation and often including activities like boat cruises or kayaking in Milford Sound. Prices start at NZ$140.

Can you hike along the route to Milford Sound?

Yes, there are several short walks along the route, including The Chasm and various viewpoints that showcase the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

Are there fuel stations available on the way to Milford Sound?

The last fuel station is in Te Anau. Ensure you fill up there because no refueling options exist along Milford Road or in Milford Sound.

Can I stay overnight in Milford Sound?

Yes, Milford Sound Lodge is the only accommodation in the area. Nearby options include campsites and stays in Te Anau.

What’s the best time of year to visit Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is spectacular year-round. Summer offers milder weather bringing in a lot more visitors, while winter brings snow-capped peaks and fewer crowds. Learn more about the best time to visit in our travel guide.

Is it possible to explore Milford Sound in a single day?

Yes, day tours from Queenstown or Te Anau are a popular choice among visitors. If you are driving, you can explore and return the same day if you start early.

milford sound cruise new
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

Headout

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
FPX