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Milford Track
Fiordland, New Zealand
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As one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, and arguably its most famous, the Milford Track will take you deep into one of the most stunning granite valleys in the world. Experience the alpine and fiord scenery that’s been thrilling hikers for more than 150 years.
Described as “the finest walk in the world” by poet Blanche Baughan, this 33.4 mi journey takes you to pristine lakes, sky-scraping mountain peaks and epic valley views. You’ll also pass by Sutherland Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand.
Length
33.4 mi
Elevation Gain
5,587 ft
Best Time to Hike
Late Oct - Late Apr
Duration
4 days
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Type
Point to Point
When To Go
It is highly recommended to hike the Milford Track during the Great Walks season (October 23 - April 30). During this time, facilities are actively managed, bridges are in place, and avalanche conditions are constantly assessed.
Hiking the Milford Track outside this period is still possible, but facilities are greatly reduced, bridges are removed, and heavy snow makes it a much more challenging trek.
How To Get There
The Milford Track is located in Fiordland National Park, which occupies the southwest corner of the South Island of New Zealand.
The trailhead can be accessed by boat from Te Anau Downs, 16.8 mi from Te Anau on SH94.
The track starts at Glade Wharf at the head of Lake Te Anau. Fly into Queenstown, take a bus (or drive) to Te Anau (2 hrs), take another bus (or drive) from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs (30 min), then a boat to the head of Lake Te Anau (1 hr 15 min). During the Great Walks season, there are three scheduled daily boat services (10:30 am, 1 pm and 2 pm) and on-demand water taxi services from Te Anau Downs.
The track ends at Sandfly Point. Take a boat to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi (20 min), where there are bus services back to Te Anau and on to Queenstown.
Permit
No permit is required to hike the Milford Track. However, you will need to make hut reservations during the Great Walks season. Outside the Great Walks season, reservations are not required; huts are first come, first served. See Accomodation section for more details.
Accomodation
Hut reservations are required in the Great Walks season. You need to book all three huts on the track well in advance and stay in each hut consecutively. See the official Milford Track DOC website for up-to-date pricing information and to book your stay.
Outside the Great Walks season you don’t need to book huts, but you do need a Backcountry Hut Pass/Tickets. Camping is not permitted on the Milford Track.
Know Before You Go
If you’re planning on hiking the Milford Track outside the Great Walks season, be aware that facilities are greatly reduced (no gas for cooking, limited water supply, no rangers or emergency radio facilities). There are also additional safety hazards to consider, including snow and ice in high areas, greater risk of avalanches, and bridges being removed to avoid damage from avalanches and flooding.
Links & Resources
Department of Conservation
Milford Track
Hut Reservations
Backcountry Hut Pass
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