NEW ZEALAND GREAT WALKS GUIDE
milford Track Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Hike
Milford Track is a world-renowned hiking trail located in the stunning Fiordland National Park in the South Island of New Zealand. The track is 53.5 kms long and takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, including majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. It is the jewel in the crown of the New Zealand Great Walks and is the most popular for good reason.
MILFORD
track
Each track has its own story - click the links below to find out what awaits you
Read our Milford Track experience
Want to know what it's really like? Read about our 4-day adventure, favourite viewpoints, hut stays, and the lessons we learned along the way.
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MILFORD TRACK QUICK OVERVIEW
location
Milford Track is located in Fiordland, South Island. The closest airport is Queenstown. It is a further 2hr 30min drive to Te Anau Downs to begin the track via ferry.
difficulty
Milford Track is considered an intermediate Great Walk with a moderate climb from Mintaro Hut to McKinnon Pass which requires navigation of 15 switchbacks up to 1156m.
at a glance
LENGTH: 53.5 km one way. The Milford Track can be walked in only one direction
DURATION: 4 days
DIFFICULTY: Easy to Moderate
CAMPING: No camping allowed
itinerary
Great Walks Season: Late October to 30 April
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DAY 1: Glade Wharf - Clinton Hut 5km walk and boat trip =
2 hrs -2hrs 30mins
DAY 2: Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut 17.5 km / 6 hrs
DAY 3: Mintaro Hut to Dumpling Hut 13 km / 6 hrs -7hrs
DAY 4: Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point 18 km / 5hrs 30mins (a further 20min boat ride takes you to Milford Sound)
WHY WALK THE MILFORD TRACK
BEST FOR: Hikers looking for a classic Great Walk experience, dramatic Fiordland scenery and the opportunity to tick one of New Zealand's most famous hikes off their bucket list.​​
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Choose the Milford Track if:
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​The Milford Track is New Zealand's most famous Great Walk and, for many hikers, a true bucket list experience. Often described as "the finest walk in the world", this iconic trail takes you deep into the heart of Fiordland National Park, through a landscape that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
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Towering mountains, lush rainforest and countless waterfalls accompany you along the track. After rainfall, hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascade down the valley walls, creating a magical setting that is hard to describe until you've experienced it for yourself. While most hikers cross their fingers for sunshine, Milford Track walkers often hope for rain. Highlights include the thunderous Sutherland Falls – one of New Zealand's tallest waterfalls – and the climb to Mackinnon Pass, where breathtaking alpine views await.
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Part of what makes the Milford Track so special is the journey to the trailhead itself. Before you even take your first steps on the track, you'll travel through the spectacular Fiordland landscape before boarding a boat transfer to the start of the hike, adding to the sense of adventure and remoteness. Unlike some of the other Great Walks, reaching the Milford Track feels like an expedition from the very beginning.
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One of the things that makes the Milford Track so memorable is the ever-changing scenery. Over four days, you'll journey through ancient beech forests, alongside crystal-clear rivers and across open wetlands before tackling the climb to Mackinnon Pass, the highest point on the track. From here, the landscape transforms once again as you descend into a dramatic valley framed by towering cliffs and countless waterfalls. Just when you think the scenery can't get any better, it somehow does.
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The adventure ends in the world-famous Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, one of New Zealand's most spectacular destinations. Emerging from the bush after four days on the trail and finding yourself surrounded by steep fiords and mist-covered peaks is an unforgettable experience. If time allows, consider celebrating your achievement with a Milford Sound cruise or stay the night at the Milford Sound Lodge before heading home – it's the perfect way to end this iconic Great Walk.
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If you're looking for dramatic landscapes, unforgettable waterfalls and the chance to tick off one of New Zealand's most iconic adventures, the Milford Track deserves a place at the top of your hiking wish list.
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The Milford Track may not be for you if:
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While the Milford Track is often considered the ultimate New Zealand hiking experience, it won't be the right choice for everyone.
Firstly, securing a booking can be challenging. The Milford Track is the country's most famous Great Walk, and hut bookings are highly sought after, often selling out in around 30 minutes when reservations open. If you're not flexible with your dates or organised well in advance, it can be difficult to secure a spot.
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The track is also one of the busiest Great Walks. Although daily numbers are capped, you'll still be sharing the trail with other independent hikers as well as those completing the guided walk. If you're looking for solitude and a true wilderness experience, you may prefer one of New Zealand's quieter Great Walks.
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Despite being achievable for many people with a reasonable level of fitness, there are sections of the Milford Track that can be physically demanding. The climb to McKinnon Pass is the most challenging part of the hike, requiring a steady uphill effort. The long descent on the other side can also be tough on the knees, particularly for those with previous injuries or limited downhill hiking experience.
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The logistics involved can also be a drawback. Unlike tracks where you can simply arrive and start walking, completing the Milford Track requires boat transfers and transport arrangements at both ends of the trail. The combination of hut fees, transport costs and nearby accommodation means the Milford Track can be more expensive and require additional planning than some of the other Great Walks.
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Finally, Fiordland is one of the wettest places in New Zealand. While rain creates the spectacular waterfalls the Milford Track is famous for, it can also mean hiking in persistent wet weather. Track conditions can become muddy, and on rare occasions severe weather can disrupt transport schedules.
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For many hikers, these challenges are all part of the Milford Track's appeal. However, if you're after a quieter experience, easier logistics or a track that allows for more spontaneity, another Great Walk may be a better fit.​
Milford track overview
The Milford Track is arguably the most well-known and highly regarded of New Zealand's Great Walks. The track is located in the Fiordland National Park at the bottom of the South Island where the Routeburn, Kepler, and Hump Ridge Great Walks are also located. The track takes 4 days to complete over 53.3 kms and can only be walked in one direction. There is no camping allowed on the Milford Track and huts must be booked to complete this hike.
There are 3 huts on the Milford Track - Clinton Hut, Mintaro Hut, and Dumpling Hut all with 40 bunks which have fires, flushing toilets, running water and gas cookers with fuel (only during the Great Walks season). The track should be attempted by most hikers during the Great Walk Season from approx October to end of April. Outside of this season the walk should only be attempted by fit and experienced hikers due to the risk of encountering ice, snow, avalanches, and short daylight hours.
The Milford Track is one of the most popular Great Walks and will book out for the entire season in minutes. On the day the bookings open (sometime in late May before the next Great Walks season) you will need to be logged into the Department of Conservation (DOC) website ready to try and book huts. If you are unable to secure hut bookings, there is often space on the Guided Walks run exclusively by Ultimate Hikes which costs significantly more but offers nicer lodges, meals, a bar, hot showers, and experienced guides.​​​​
BEST TIME TO WALK THE MILFORD TRACK
The Milford Track can only be walked independently during the Great Walk season, which typically runs from late October to late April. During this period, the huts are serviced, transport operators are running regularly, and the track is managed for Great Walk visitors. Outside the Great Walk season, the Milford Track is recommended only for experienced backcountry trampers due alpine conditions, avalanche risks, reduced hut facilities and more challenging conditions.
As New Zealand's most popular Great Walk, the Milford Track books out quickly. If you're struggling to secure a booking, consider avoiding school holidays and peak summer periods such as January. Walking earlier in the season (late October to December) or towards the end of the season (March to April) can improve your chances of finding availability and may offer a quieter experience on the track.
Each time of year has its own appeal. Spring brings snow-capped peaks, vibrant waterfalls and fewer hikers, while autumn often delivers cooler temperatures and more settled weather. Summer offers the warmest conditions and longest daylight hours but is also the busiest time to visit.
One thing to keep in mind is that Fiordland is one of the wettest places in New Zealand, and rain is possible at any time of the season. While persistent rain can make for challenging hiking conditions, it also transforms the landscape, creating the spectacular waterfalls that make the Milford Track so famous.
If flexibility allows, aim for the shoulder seasons. You'll still experience the magic of the Milford Track, but with a better chance of securing a booking and sharing the trail with fewer people.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE MILFORD TRACK
Day 1 – Te Anau Downs Wharf to Clinton Hut - 50min boat ride and 1 hr hike / 5 km
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Day 1 entails a water taxi ride from Te Anau Downs Wharf (30min drive from Te Anau). The boat ride takes 50 minutes across Lake Te Anau disembarking passengers at Glade Wharf. Hikers will walk an easy flat 5km track to Clinton Hut under beech forest.
Day 2 - Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut 17.5 km / 6 hrs
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The17.5 km hike from Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut should take approximately 6 hours. The track follows the Clinton River and winds up the Clinton Valley with rock cliffs towering over you on both sides. The track gradually climbs to Lake Mintaro and Mintaro Hut which was newly built and moved further up the track in 2021.
Day 3 - Mintaro Hut to Dumpling Hut 13km / 6-7hrs
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Mintaro Hut sits at the bottom of McKinnon Pass which will require hikers to ascend up to the shelter at 1,154 meters. This is the hardest day as you navigate 15 switchbacks and gain incredible views of Lake Mintaro and the Clinton Valley below. Hikers will be rewarded with panoramic views at the top if the skies are clear. From here it is all downhill and hikers will navigate plenty of stairs to the valley floor. Drop your packs at Quentin Shelter and take the side trip to the unmissable Sutherland Falls (1hr 30min return). From here it is a short 45 min walk to Dumpling Hut for the night.
Day 4 - Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point 18km / 6hrs
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The final day is the longest, covering 18 km in approximately six hours but is one of the most scenic days of the trail. The hike is relatively easy going and flat as hikers follow the Arthur River and pass the mesmerizing Mackay Falls, Giant Gate Falls, and Lake Ada. The walk finishes at Sandfly Point which is aptly named, so load up on insect repellent as you wait for the 15 min water taxi. Enjoy the spectacular views of the celebrated Milford Sound as you motor towards the wharf.
Check out the Mountain Safety Council video of the Milford Track here
MILFORD TRACK DAY WALK OPTIONS
​​Day walks can be completed by catching a water taxi from either Glade Wharf (start of the track) or Milford Sound (end of the track).
Suggestions:
Sandfly Point to Giant Gate Falls (return) - 3hrs / 4.6km. Catch a 15min water taxi from Milford Sound to Sandfly point and walk to Giant Gate falls. An easygoing flat track suitable for little hikers that takes you to the beautiful waterfalls. The water taxi ride will give you breathtaking views of the iconic Milford Sound. If you are happy to travel a little further to Sandfly Point this is probably the most scenic option in our opinion.
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Te Anau Downs to Clinton Hut (return) - 3hrs / 10kms. Catch a longer 50min water taxi across Lake Te Anau to Te Anau Downs. It's an easy walk under beech forest alongside the Clinton River. Stop for lunch at the hut to admire the mountains before returning to the wharf.
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Queenstown is a quite a long drive to Te Anau Downs Wharf (2 hrs 30mins) and Sandfly Point (4hrs) so consider staying closer in Te Anau or the Milford Sound Lodge.​
MILFORD TRACK DIFFICULTY
The first day is relatively easy to Clinton Hut. The second day is much longer at 17.5km but the climb through the valley is very gradual only getting steeper just before Mintaro Hut. The third day is the most challenging day as you ascend up the McKinnon Pass. Take your time and have breaks on the corners of the switchbacks if needed. The downhill to the Quentin Shelter takes approx 3 hours and is hard on the knees with a full pack. Don’t miss the side trip to Sutherland Falls - it's not far from Dumpling Hut. Don’t get too excited when you reach Quentin Shelter, the lodge you see is for hikers on the guided walks. Day 4 is generally pretty flat with the odd climb but is the most scenic, so relax and enjoy.
Milford Track Elevation Profile
MILFORD TRACK LOGISTICS & BOOKINGS
The Milford Track is extremely popular, and it can be difficult to secure hut spots. Before you book anything, secure bookings for the huts first. For more information and tips on how to book the Department of Conservation (DOC) huts/campsites, check out the PLAN & BOOK section or click the link below.
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All hikers will need to organize water taxi transport to enter and exit the Milford Track. Many companies will also provide packages for bus transport to and from the wharfs from Te Anau and Queenstown. You can leave your car (at your own risk) for the duration of the hike and catch a bus back to your car. Ensure you leave no valuables in the car. Check out the link below for more information on transport options.​​​​​
Things We Learned
We learned so much on the Milford Track. This was our first multi-day hike and we certainly made some fails on this trip. Or should we say 'development opportunities'.​​​
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Pack weight matters - the more you take, the heavier the pack, and the harder the walk. Turns out champagne bottles are heavy even when empty. As we progress through the walks our food gets lighter, we take fewer clothes, and we re-think our liquids (but not all of them...)​
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Break in new footwear - Pablo had massive blisters on the soles of both feet from not breaking in his new boots prior to the hike. Tsk tsk. We never saw those boots again R.I.P
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​Boots aren’t for everyone - Julz would never return to hiking boots as her Achilles was rubbed raw by the end of the walk. Although the boots were old and well-worn she opts for hiking shoes going forward and never looks back. ​​
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Ponchos are a pain - Advice to throw a poncho over yourself and pack to stop water getting in between your back and pack sounded legit. The ponchos, whilst they kept us predominantly dry, were a hassle particularly on the windy second day. We looked like wet disheveled ghosts most of the day. We wouldn't recommend them. But do invest in a good quality waterproof jacket.​​
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Sleeping Bag Liner - We go on to purchase sleeping bag liners to increase the warmth of our sleeping bags. Much cheaper than getting a new bag and keeps us warm enough for the next walks. The alpine walks can be colder, and we encountered snow at the top of McKinnon pass which made for a cold sleep. We had to wear all our clothes to bed to keep warm that night. Liners give options to manage your temperature and just use the liner for hotter nights.​​
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Extra bootlace - so this was on a standard list to add to our packs, so we did. Within a few minutes of our first ever Great Walk we found out why. Pablo trips on his lace, falls flat on his face (opting not to break the fall with any arms) and breaks his boot lace. Go figure. It takes up little to no room, so go on add it in.​
TIPS From The Crew
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Sutherland Falls - Don't miss this side trip. Drop your pack at Quentin Shelter and enjoy the lovely flat stroll to the falls and give your knees a break from all that downhill.​
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Milford Sound Lodge - Milford Sound Lodge is a great place to stay after the track. It's another 1km walk from the Milford Sound wharf but the accommodation and food are worth the extra stroll. The night sky is amazing from here with some naughty Kea that hang around the rooms. ​
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Pack Warm - even in midsummer it snowed, and the temperatures were very cold. Highly recommend a packable puffer jacket to keep toasty.
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Rain Gear - take appropriate rain gear for any hike in the Fiordland National Park. The park receives rain on approximately 200 days each year, meaning it rains on average more than every second day. More than likely you will get wet and it is much more enjoyable witnessing those incredible waterfalls when you are dry.​​​​
MILFORD TRACK COMMON QUESTIONS
1. How difficult is the Milford Track?
The Milford Track is considered a moderate Great Walk. Most people with a reasonable level of fitness can complete it, but the climb to McKinnon Pass and the long descent on the third day can be physically demanding.
2. How long does it take to walk the Milford Track?
Independent walkers complete the Milford Track in four days and three nights, covering approximately 53.5km. The track can only be completed in one direction. When you book your first hut, the remaining two huts are automatically booked for consecutive nights.
3. When do Milford Track bookings open?
DOC Great Walk bookings typically open several months before the hiking season begins. As the Milford Track is New Zealand's most popular Great Walk, it's worth planning ahead and being ready when bookings go live. DOC generally announces Great Walk booking opening dates in late April. If the Milford Track is on your bucket list, mark this in your calendar, create your DOC account ahead of time and be ready to book as soon as reservations open.
4. Can you walk the Milford Track without a booking?
No. During the Great Walk season, all walkers must have a confirmed hut or guided walk booking before starting the track. There are no campsites on the Milford Track, and camping is not permitted.
5. What is the best time to walk the Milford Track?
The Milford Track can only be independently walked during the Great Walk season (usually late October to late April). Check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for the exact dates, as these can vary each year. For a quieter experience and a better chance of securing a booking, consider visiting outside of peak holiday periods.
6. Can beginners walk the Milford Track?
Yes. While you don't need extensive tramping experience, you should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for several consecutive days of hiking while carrying a backpack. Guided walkers can carry significantly less, as bedding, meals and lodge accommodation are all provided. With luggage transported between stops, you only need a day pack for essentials, making the experience more comfortable and accessible for those who prefer to hike without a heavy load.
7. Do I need to carry all of my food?
Yes. Independent walkers need to carry all meals and snacks for the duration of the hike. There are no shops or food supplies available on the track. Remember, walkers must also carry all rubbish out with them.
Guided walkers will have meals provided; however, they will still need to carry their own snacks and lunch each day. Ultimate Hikes has exclusive rights to offer guided walks on the Milford Track. While the cost is significantly higher than an independent walk, it includes meals, private lodges and hot showers.
8. Are there showers or charging facilities in the Milford Track huts?
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There are no showers available in the DOC huts; however, there are swimming spots near each hut. These crystal-clear waters are a popular place to rinse off after a hard day's hike, but remember that they are glacial waters, and the temperatures will be cold.
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Mintaro Hut is a newer hut and offers solar-powered USB charging points located in the dining area. There are only a few outlets available, and charging may be slow or unavailable depending on conditions. The other DOC huts on the Milford Track do not have power outlets for charging devices. Bring a power bank if you plan to use your phone or camera regularly.
9. Are there sandflies on the Milford Track?
Yes. Sandflies are common throughout Fiordland, particularly around the huts and lower sections of the track, so insect repellent is highly recommended. Sandfly Point, at the end of the track, is aptly named, so make sure you apply repellent before arriving.
10. Can you walk the Milford Track in winter?
The Milford Track remains open outside of the Great Walk season, but winter conditions can be hazardous. Avalanche risk, unserviced huts and more challenging river crossings mean the track is recommended only for experienced backcountry trampers with appropriate skills and equipment, such as an ice axe and crampons..
