Milford Track

Experience the stunning grandeur of the Milford Track including rugged mountain peaks, breathtaking sheer canyons and majestic waterfalls.

Walk beside pristine rivers and amongst lush, green rainforest before crossing Mackinnon Pass and reaching spectacular Milford Sound.

Duration
4 days
Distance
53.5km
Location
Fiordland National Park, south-west South Island
Nearest towns
Queenstown, Te Anau and Invercargill
Nearest airport
Queenstown, Invercargill

The Milford Track is located in Fiordland National Park, part of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The Milford Track can only be walked in one direction, over 4 days and 3 nights, starting at the head of Lake Te Anau and finishing at Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.

Highlights

  • Cross the Clinton River on this impressive 72 metre suspension bridge, built by Fijian engineers in 1978. The bridge is a great place to spot eels and trout in the river
  • Fiordland National Park is renowned for its high annual rainfall but don't despair! The rain provides a mystical moss-draped forest, energetic streams and rivers, and waterfalls that are even more spectacular!
  • Keep a sharp eye out for whio/blue duck riding rapids on the Clinton and Arthur rivers - their blue-grey feathers provide perfect camouflage amongst the rocks

Find out more in the Milford Track brochure.

Things to know before you go

It is important to plan and prepare your trip and be well equipped on a Great Walk. For a full list of the equipment and preparation required for the Milford Track, plus the latest track updates and information on getting there, please visit the Department of Conservation website.

Safety is your responsibility - It is important that you check in with the nearest DOC Visitor Centre prior to beginning your walk. For detailed safety information, including tramping conditions in New Zealand and The Outdoor Safety Code - 5 simple rules to help you stay safe - visit www.adventuresmart.org.nz.

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Milford Track image courtesy of Graeme Murray