Milford Sound
Fiordland National Park has some of the best walking trails anywhere in the world. From short, easy nature strolls to multi-day backcountry treks, the walks around Milford Sound have something for every fitness level, and every one of them rewards you with scenery that’s hard to beat anywhere in New Zealand.
Whether you’ve got an hour or several days, here’s our guide to the best Milford Sound walks and hikes in the area.
The Milford Track
Let’s start with the big one. The Milford Track is arguably New Zealand’s most famous walk, and for good reason. Often called “the finest walk in the world”, this 53.5km trail runs through the heart of Fiordland National Park, from the head of Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound itself.
Over four days you’ll walk through beech forest, across wide glacial valleys, alongside clear rivers and over Mackinnon Pass, the highest point on the track at 1,154m. The views from the pass on a clear day are something else. You’ll also pass Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country.
The Milford Track is a Great Walk, so it must be booked in advance during the main season (late October to late April). The huts along the route are well kept and have bunks, cooking facilities and gas. It’s a bucket-list walk for trampers from all over the world.
If you don’t have four days but still want a taste of this legendary trail, our Coach, Cruise & Walk package pairs a Nature Cruise on Milford Sound with a guided walk along a section of the Milford Track. It’s a great way to experience the track without committing to a multi-day tramp, and you get to see the fiord from the water too.
The Key Summit Track
The Key Summit Track is one of the most rewarding short walks on the road to Milford Sound. Starting from The Divide car park on the Milford Road, this well-formed trail climbs steadily through silver beech forest to an alpine wetland at the summit.
Allow about three hours return. The track is rated moderate. At the top, a boardwalk loop leads you through tussock and tarns, with 360-degree views of the Hollyford, Eglinton and Greenstone valleys. On a clear day you can see deep into Fiordland National Park. It’s one of the finest viewpoints in the region.
Lake Marian Track
For something more challenging, the Lake Marian Track leads to one of Fiordland’s finest alpine lakes. The trail starts from the Hollyford Road and climbs through dense, moss-covered forest to a hidden glacial lake ringed by high peaks.
Allow about three hours return. It can be steep and muddy in places, so sturdy footwear is essential. But the payoff, a clear turquoise lake reflecting sheer mountain walls, is well worth the effort.
The Chasm Walk
If you’re short on time, The Chasm is a must. This easy 20-minute return walk from the Milford Road takes you through lush rainforest to a series of rock formations carved by the Cleddau River over thousands of years.
Bridges cross deep, narrow gorges where the river has sculpted smooth, swirling shapes into the stone. The force of the water is something to see, and the whole setting, dripping moss, tall trees, birdsong, feels a bit like another world. It’s one of the most accessible Milford Sound walks and perfect for families.
Gertrude Saddle Route
For experienced and well-prepared trampers only, the Gertrude Saddle Route is one of the most spectacular alpine day walks in Fiordland National Park. The unmarked route climbs steeply from the Gertrude Valley car park on the Milford Road to the saddle, where you’re rewarded with a view straight down into Milford Sound and across to Mitre Peak.
This is a serious mountain route: exposed, steep and very weather-dependent. It should only be attempted in good conditions with proper gear and navigation skills. For those with the experience, though, it’s a real Fiordland adventure.
Foreshore walk at Milford Sound
Right at Milford Sound itself, a short foreshore walk follows the edge of the fiord near the terminal building. It’s flat, easy, and offers lovely views across the water to Mitre Peak. A great option if you’re waiting for your cruise, or have a bit of time to fill before or after your trip on the water.
Be ready for the weather. Fiordland gets over seven metres of rain a year, and conditions can change fast, especially at altitude. Pack waterproof layers, warm clothing and sturdy boots for anything beyond a short walk.
Start early. Car parks at popular trailheads like The Divide and The Chasm fill up quickly in summer. An early start also gives you the best light and quieter trails.
Combine your walk with a cruise. Some of the best Milford Sound walks pair beautifully with time on the water. Our Coach, Cruise & Walk package lets you do a Nature Cruise and a guided section of the Milford Track in one day, a great way to see the best of Fiordland without needing a multi-day trek.
Check conditions. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for track conditions and alerts before heading out, particularly for alpine routes.
Lace up and explore
From the world-famous Milford Track to quick rainforest strolls, the walks around Milford Sound show off Fiordland National Park at its finest. Every trail leads to something special, a hidden waterfall, an alpine lake, or a view that stops you in your tracks.
Ready to walk and cruise Milford Sound with us?
We’d love to help you mix one of these walks with time on the water. Our Coach & Cruise package takes the driving off your hands and gets you out onto the fiord, and we can help you plan the best walks to add either side of the day. We can’t wait to show you around.
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