Hikingat Milford Sound
Discover New Zealand's most spectacular trails, from the legendary Milford Track to short hikes accessible to all. An unforgettable adventure in the heart of Fiordland National Park.
A legendary experience
A cruise in Milford Sound is the best way to discover this magnificent fjord. Cruises allow you to grasp and truly appreciate the immensity of the place, its mountains, and also to encounter the fjord’s wildlife. It’s an affordable option — around 80 — and a quick one too, lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours, to explore one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.
Most companies also offer optional transport from Queenstown or Te Anau. If you’d like to learn more about the day trips departing from these towns, feel free to visit our page dedicated to excursions from Queenstown.
In addition, some cruises are available as combination packages: flight + cruise. If you’re interested in a scenic flight over Milford Sound, head over to our page: Milford Sound Scenic Flights.
Guided hike on the Milford Track
Explore part of the famous Milford Track on an unforgettable guided hike. After a few minutes by boat from Milford Sound, embark on a 3-hour walk through breathtaking landscapes to Giant Gate Falls.
Guided hike on Milford Track + fjord cruise
Combine a 4-hour guided hike on the legendary Milford Track with an unforgettable cruise in Milford Sound fjord. Enjoy a total immersion in the wilderness of Fiordland with these 7+ hour excursions.
Why is Milford Sound an ideal place for hiking ?
Milford Sound, nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, is a paradise for hikers. With its spectacular landscapes, towering mountains, majestic waterfalls, and unique wildlife, every trail offers an immersive experience in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Whether you choose to walk the legendary Milford Track or explore shorter trails around the fjord, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a deep connection to the natural environment.**
Main hiking trails at Milford Sound
Comparison table of must-do hikes in Milford Sound and Fiordland to help you choose based on your level and preferences.
| Hiking trail Starting point | Duration | Distance Elevation gain | Difficulty | Highlights | Best season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LT Lookout Track Milford Sound Terminal | 15 min | 0,4 km 30 m | Very easy |
| Year-round |
FW Milford Foreshore Walk Milford Sound Car Park | 30 - 45 min | 1,8 km 0 m | Very easy |
| Year-round |
TC The Chasm Milford Road (km 155) | 20 min | 600 m 0 m | Very easy |
| Year-round |
KS Key Summit The Divide (Milford Road) | 3h | 6,8 km 400 m | Moderate |
| Oct - May |
LM Lake Marian Hollyford Road (km 1) | 3h | 6 km 400 m | Moderate |
| Nov - Apr |
GS Gertrude Saddle Route Gertrude Valley car park | 4 to 6 h | 7 km 800 m | Difficult |
| Oct - Apr |
MT Milford Track Glade Wharf (Te Anau) | 4 days | 53 km 1,200 m | Difficult |
| Oct - Apr |
RB Routeburn Track The Divide car park | 2-3 days | 32 km 1,200 m | Difficult |
| Oct - Apr |
Focus on the Milford Track
Nicknamed “the finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This 4-day hike takes you through breathtaking scenery: rainforests, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and the spectacular Sutherland Falls.
4 days / 3 nights
53.5 kilometers
Difficult
October - April
Frequently asked questions about hiking
Find all the answers to your questions about hiking in Milford Sound to prepare your adventure in the best way.
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Complete your preparation with our other essential guides on Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cruise
Explore the wonders of Milford Sound with our complete guide to cruises: options, tips and best experiences to discover the fjords.
Where to stay at Milford Sound
Complete accommodation guide: Milford Sound Lodge, camping, overnight cruises and alternatives in Te Anau and Queenstown.
Milford Sound from Queenstown
How to organize your visit to Milford Sound from Queenstown: transport, excursions, practical tips for an unforgettable day in Fiordland.