- Official name: Milford Track
- Location: Fiordland National Park, Southland
- Opened: 1888
- Season: Late October – late April
- Distance: 53.5 km (33.2 miles)
- Time: Typically 4 days
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- UNESCO status: Te Wahipounamu, since 1990
- Visitors: ~14,000 per season
Milford Track | One of New Zealand’s finest walks
The Milford Track is often called “the finest walk in the world”. Stretching 53.5 km (33.2 miles) through Fiordland National Park, this four-day hike takes you past alpine passes, glacial valleys, and waterfalls like Sutherland Falls. First opened in 1888, the track carries deep cultural meaning for Māori, and today it draws thousands of adventurers to New Zealand’s UNESCO-listed landscapes each season.
Milford Track in a nutshell
Why visit Milford Track?
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks
Part of the country’s network of nine world-famous hikes, set entirely in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Waterfall country
Milford Track has one end in Milford Sound, the wettest place is New Zealand and one of the wettest places on Earth.
Alpine challenge
Climb Mackinnon Pass for panoramic views over Clinton and Arthur Valleys.
Rich biodiversity
Spot cheeky Kea parrots, Fiordland crested penguins, and lush native flora.
Guided insights
Small-group tours connect you to the track’s ecology and Māori history.
End-point reward
Many finish with a Milford Sound cruise beneath Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls.
Your Milford Track tour options
Day walk to Giant Gate Falls
- 5-hour guided round trip (11 km)
- Trail highlights: Deepwater Basin, Sandfly Point, Arthur River, Lake Ada
- Hike with a small group past sights like Deepwater Basin, Sandfly Point, Arthur River, Lake Ada, and Giant's Gate Waterfall.
- Upgrade to a guided cruise along the Milford Sound, sailing past Mitre Peak, Fairy and Bridal Veil waterfalls, and endangered wildlife like New Zealand fur seals.
From Te Anau: Track + cruise combo
- Hotel transfers included
- 5.5 km guided section with a water taxi to Sandfly Point
- Learn about Fiordland’s ecology and history along the track
- Cruise Milford Sound post-walk, spotting seals, dolphins, and waterfalls with commentary from the skipper.
- Duration: ~12 hrs | Start: 6:30 AM
Milford Track highlights: What you'll see
Lake Ada
A serene alpine lake perfect for photo stops.
Plan Your Visit to Milford Track
- Great Walk season: End of October to April
- Off-Great Walk season/ Closed from: May to the end of October
Best time to visit:
- October & November: Spring unfolds with lush green landscapes. The weather is generally warm and sunny, but it can be unpredictable with occasional showers. Crowds are moderate.
- December & January: Summer brings the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours, perfect for long hikes and enjoying the scenery. However, this is also the busiest time with the largest crowds.
- February & March: The crowds begin to thin towards the end of summer. Temperatures remain comfortable, and the vibrant fall foliage starts to appear.
- April: The Great Walks season officially ends in April, but experienced hikers can still tackle the track with proper preparation. Expect colder temperatures, possible snowfall, and shorter daylight hours.
Address: Fiordland,Southland 9679, New Zealand | Find on maps
Getting there: Accessible solely through private transportation, Milford Track can be conveniently experienced by booking a day trip or tour that includes transfers, ensuring a hassle-free visit. If you're short on time or don't wanna complete the entire track (53.5 km/4 days), go for a shorter Milford Sound tour. This lets you explore a slice of the track, see prominent sights, and learn from an expert guide.
Handy Tips for Milford Track
- Go with a guide: A Milford Track guided walk covers logistics and adds cultural and ecological insights you’d miss on your own.
- Pack for all weather: Fiordland is famously unpredictable. Bring waterproof layers, windproof jacket, sturdy boots, and a rain cover for your pack.
- Beat the sandflies: They bite. Carry insect repellent and wear light, long-sleeved clothing.
- Gear checklist: Map, compass, whistle, portable charger, and a water bottle (add purification tablets for safety).
- Footwear strategy: Use sturdy boots for rough terrain and lightweight shoes for river crossings.
- Emergency prep: A small first aid kit and space blanket are must-haves.
- Leave no trace: Carry out all rubbish and respect Fiordland’s pristine environment.
- Huts & bookings: Space is limited. Book DOC huts well ahead, especially in peak season. Respect quiet hours; earplugs help if you’re a light sleeper.
Adventure activities on Milford Track
Hiking and Trekking
Traverse the 53.5-kilometer trail, taking on challenging sections like Mackinnon Pass for sweeping views of the area.
River Crossings
Experience the thrill of crossing pristine rivers, adding an adventurous element to the trek.
Waterfall Exploration
Take in the beautiful Sutherland Falls and others, and have a grand time in the natural beauty of Fiordland.
Wildlife Spotting
Observe native birds like the Weka and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Camping/Tramping
Opt for multi-day hikes with overnight stays in comfortable huts, enhancing the adventure experience.
History of Milford Track
Utilized by the Māori for gathering precious greenstone, Milford Track's rich history intertwines with legends about the area and its native species. European exploration commenced in 1880 when Donald Sutherland and John Mackay, from the Milford end, first witnessed Mackay Falls and Sutherland Falls. Quintin McKinnon, from Lake Te Anau, discovered the overland route and McKinnon Pass in 1888. McKinnon became the first guide, leading walkers from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. His legacy persists in landmarks like McKinnon Pass, symbolizing the track's evolution from Māori traditions to European exploration and guided trekking experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Track at Milford Sound
The Milford Track is a renowned 53.5-kilometer hiking trail in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, celebrated for its spectacular landscapes, including Sutherland Falls and Mackinnon Pass.
Yes, you can visit both Milford Track and Milford Sound as part of your tour.
At Milford Track, you can enjoy hiking through pristine landscapes, watching iconic waterfalls, exploring native wildlife, boarding a scenic cruise to Milford Sound, and going on guided tours to learn about the region's ecology and culture.
Milford Track tours showcase Sutherland Falls, Mackinnon Pass, native wildlife, amongst other landscapes. Guided tours provide insights into the area's natural and cultural significance.
Milford Track guided walks are open during the Great Walks season, typically from late October to late April. Exact dates may vary, so checking them before you plan your Milford Track hike is advisable. Booking your tour in advance is recommended.
Milford Track is located in Fiordland National Park. The Milford Track starts at Glade Wharf and ends at Milford Sound, South Island, New Zealand.
The Milford Track isn't wheelchair accessible due to its rugged terrain, challenging elevation changes, and remote location. If you wish to experience Milford Sound however, the cruises and scenic flights are accessibility-friendly.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged at Milford Track. Mark your visit by capturing memories of your time at the world’s 8th natural wonder.
Pack essentials like waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, food, water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellant, a power bank, and a camera. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for changing conditions.
The track spans 53.5 kilometers (33.2 miles) and it will take you around 4 days to complete the Milford Track trek. However, a one-day Milford Track guided walk will take around 5 to 7 hours.
Options include guided tours with informative commentary, independent hikes with tea breaks at the Giant Gate Falls, and boat cruises on Milford Sound. Check out your Milford Track tour options before planning your trip.
For convenient access to Milford Track, opt for a day tour with included transfers, making your visit hassle-free. If you’re also short on time or not up for the full 53.5 km trek over four days, consider a shorter Milford Track tour, allowing you to explore key sights with an expert guide.
