← Back to All Routes

Milford Track

Beginner

New Zealand · Southland

Often called one of the world's finest walks, the Milford Track crosses Fiordland National Park through mossy rainforest, hanging valleys, and glacially carved basins. It is short by thru-hike standards but exceptionally dense in scenery, with Mackinnon Pass, Sutherland Falls, and Milford Sound all packed into four days.

Total Distance

53 km

Estimated Days

4 days

Max Elevation

1154 m

Elevation Gain

1400 m

Difficulty

2/5 - Beginner

Best Season

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr

Route Type

Point-to-Point, Forest, Lakes

Beginner-Friendly

Suitable for beginners

Transport

Car Required

World HeritageLakesForestWorld-Class Scenery

Highlights

  • Cross the heart of Fiordland through rainforest, waterfalls, and glacial valleys
  • Mackinnon Pass delivers classic Southern Alps views in a compact itinerary
  • Side trip to Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls on Earth
  • The finish links naturally with a Milford Sound cruise for a signature South Island trip

Suitable For

  • Travellers seeking a classic New Zealand Great Walk
  • First-time multi-day hikers
  • Hikers who prefer a well-managed trail system

Important Notes

  • Peak-season hut and campsite spots often sell out months in advance
  • Fiordland receives extreme rainfall; storms can alter transport and trail access
  • Boardwalks and bridges help, but the route remains slippery in wet weather
  • Wild camping and reverse-direction walking are not generally permitted on the Great Walk

Getting There

Fly to Queenstown or travel to Te Anau. Bus to Te Anau Downs, then boat to Glade Wharf. Finish at Sandfly Point and take the official boat and bus transfer back.

Suggested Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Glade Wharf to Clinton Hut through lush valley rainforest.
  2. Day 2: Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut, gradually climbing toward the pass.
  3. Day 3: Cross Mackinnon Pass to Dumpling Hut and add the Sutherland Falls side trip.
  4. Day 4: Follow the Arthur Valley to Sandfly Point and exit by boat.

Season & Permit Notes

Season notes: The standard season runs in the Southern Hemisphere summer and autumn, roughly late October or November through April. Shoulder-season conditions are less predictable.

Permits: Advance DOC Great Walk booking for huts or campsites is essential and functions as the core access permit for the track.

Supplies & Accommodation

Supplies: There is no commercial resupply on trail. Carry food for all 4 days. Serviced huts and water sources are available along the way.

Accommodation: Most walkers stay in DOC Great Walk huts or designated campsites. Te Anau is the main base before and after the trek.

GPX Track

GPX download is not yet available. Search for "Milford Track GPX" on outdoor communities in the meantime.

Disclaimer

Data is for reference only. Verify current trail conditions and safety information before departure. Prepare thoroughly for high-risk routes and follow local regulations. We accept no liability for any incidents arising from the use of this data.