5
Milford Track BELOW: Milford Sound Cruise BOTH IMAGES: © Real Journeys
MILFORD TRACK
One of the world’s best-loved multi-day walks and one of this country's Great Walks, it features lakes, mountains and views to remember forever.
Where is it? Start at Glade Wharf at the head of Lake Te Anau, 27km from the township. Finish at Sandfly Point, Milford Sounds.
Need to know You may only walk in one direction and you must take a boat to the start at Glade Wharf. The final leg from Sandfly Point is also by boat through the majestic Milford Sound.
Terrain Well-formed bush and forest tracks, some steps, dirt, gravel, very steep in parts and it can be slippery after rain.
No dogs
Most do it in 4 days; 53.5km Intermediate fitness required Very steep in parts
TRACK OVERVIEW
MILFORD SOUND You will want to relive the moment you first set eyes on Milford Sound over and over again. For as much as you’re told it’s a thing of staggering beauty, nothing can prepare you for the real deal. Don't forget to pack essential items such as insect repellent and raincoats. The months between September and December are usually the wettest.
Valley vistas, lakes that reflect like mirrors when the wind isn’t blowing, mountain ranges and all manner of wildlife, most of it with wings, Milford Track has been charming visitors for over 150 years. Whether you walk independently or take a guided walk for a more comfortable experience, this is a seriously stunning adventure. Mackinnon Pass is the steepest section and many walkers are glad to have poles to take the strain off their knees. There are three huts on the Milford Track and they must be booked ahead of the Great Walks season from the end of October to the start of May. Milford Track prepared; it rains here 182 days of the year. Many Milford ©Be Getty Images devotees say the walk is improved when the weather is moody so perhaps it’s best to subscribe to the old adage, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear’.
WALKING MUST-DO’S 81
