How to Hike the Milford Track (Complete Guide & Map)

The Milford Track is New Zealand’s most famous walking trail, winding through pristine rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering mountain peaks in Fiordland National Park.

Often called “the finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track stretches 53.5 kilometers through some of the most breathtaking wilderness I’ve ever encountered. The trail takes you from the head of Lake Te Anau, over the alpine Mackinnon Pass, and down to the magnificent Milford Sound.

This multi-day tramping track passes through ancient beech forests, crosses swing bridges over crystal-clear rivers, and delivers you to the base of Sutherland Falls, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, with snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and the raw power of nature on full display.

I’ve walked this track during the peak season, and despite the crowds, the experience was transformative. The combination of well-maintained huts, stunning landscapes, and the sense of achievement makes this one of the world’s great walking experiences.

The track operates on a booking system during the Great Walks season, with guided and independent walking options. Three comfortable huts along the route provide shelter, and the track is graded as medium difficulty, suitable for anyone with reasonable fitness.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ve covered everything you need to know about hiking the Milford Track, including how to book, what to expect each day, detailed route instructions, and essential tips for making the most of this incredible journey.

MILFORD TRACK OVERVIEW

Start: Glade Wharf (Lake Te Anau)
Finish: Sandfly Point (Milford Sound)
Distance: 53.5 km / 33.5 miles
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Elevation gain: 1,150 meters (highest point: Mackinnon Pass)
Difficulty: Medium
Season: Late October to late April (Great Walks season)

The Milford Track is a one-way journey that must be walked from north to south. Unlike typical day hikes, this is a multi-day commitment that requires advance planning and bookings.

I started my journey at Glade Wharf after a boat ride across Lake Te Anau, and over four glorious days, I walked through landscapes that seemed almost impossible in their beauty. The track is well-maintained with wooden boardwalks, swing bridges, and clearly marked trails throughout.

The Great Walks season runs from late October to late April, when the huts are staffed, and all facilities are open. During this period, the track operates on a strict booking system, and you must stay at designated huts each night. Independent walkers must book well in advance, as spaces fill up quickly, sometimes months ahead.

The daily distances are manageable, ranging from 5 to 21 kilometers, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings, take photos, and complete side trips to waterfalls and viewpoints.

I spent roughly 5 to 7 hours walking each day, but with breaks for lunch, photography, and simply soaking in the scenery, my days were full from morning until arrival at each hut in the late afternoon.

MILFORD TRACK MAP

Below is an overview map showing the entire Milford Track route with the three huts marked along the way (shown in red).

The track begins at Glade Wharf (marked in brown) after a boat transfer from Te Anau Downs, and finishes at Sandfly Point, where another boat takes you to Milford Sound.

Access points at Te Anau Downs and Milford Sound are marked in blue.

For physical maps, I recommend the DOC Milford Track Map or Topographic Map 335-10 & 335-11. These waterproof maps show the track in detail with contour lines and all facilities marked.

For digital navigation, the Maps.me app with New Zealand maps downloaded works excellently offline. The track is well-marked, so you won’t get lost, but having a digital backup is always wise.

BOOKING THE MILFORD TRACK

Booking is essential for the Milford Track during the Great Walks season. The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages all independent bookings through their website.

INDEPENDENT WALKERS

Bookings open on a specific date each year (usually in July) for the following season. I recommend setting an alarm and being online exactly when bookings open, as popular dates sell out within hours.

You must book all three huts as a package: Clinton Hut, Mintaro Hut, and Dumpling Hut. Hut fees during the 2024-2025 season were NZD $160 per person for all three nights.

You also need to book boat transfers at both ends of the track. The boat from Te Anau Downs to Glade Wharf costs approximately NZD $99, and the boat from Sandfly Point to Milford Sound costs around NZD $89.

GUIDED WALKS

Several companies offer fully guided experiences with private lodges, meals included, and a more comfortable experience. Ultimate Hikes is the main operator, offering guided walks from October to April. Guided walks are significantly more expensive but include everything from transport to gourmet meals.

WINTER SEASON

From May to October, the track is accessible as a backcountry hut experience. Bookings are not required, huts are unstaffed, and facilities are basic. This is only for experienced trampers prepared for challenging weather, river crossings, and avalanche risks.

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD

The Milford Track is remote, requiring careful planning to reach both the start and finish points.

REACHING TE ANAU DOWNS (START)

The track begins at Glade Wharf, accessible only by boat from Te Anau Downs, located 27 kilometers north of Te Anau township.

By Car: Most walkers drive to Te Anau and arrange secure parking. Several companies in Te Anau offer parking for the duration of your walk (around NZD $10-15 per day). You’ll need to arrange transport from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs, which bus companies coordinate with boat departures.

By Bus: Tracknet and other operators run daily buses from Queenstown and Te Anau to Te Anau Downs, timed with boat departures. The bus from Te Anau takes about 30 minutes.

Boat Transfer: The boat departs Te Anau Downs at specific times (usually 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM during peak season) and takes 1.5 hours to reach Glade Wharf.

DEPARTING FROM MILFORD SOUND (FINISH)

The track ends at Sandfly Point, where a boat collects hikers and transfers them to Milford Sound.

By Boat: The boat from Sandfly Point departs in the afternoon (usually between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM) and takes 20 minutes to Milford Sound.

By Bus: From Milford Sound, you need to catch a bus back to Te Anau or Queenstown. Book these buses when arranging your initial transport. The drive from Milford to Te Anau takes 2.5 hours through spectacular scenery, including the Homer Tunnel.

I arranged a complete transport package through Tracknet, which coordinated all transfers seamlessly. This removed the stress of timing and logistics.

HIKING INSTRUCTIONS

DAY 1: GLADE WHARF TO CLINTON HUT (5 km / 3.1 miles, 1.5 hours)

After the scenic boat ride down Lake Te Anau, I stepped off at Glade Wharf, eager to begin. This first day is deliberately short, allowing time for the boat schedule and letting you settle into the rhythm of the track.

The trail follows the Clinton River upstream through ancient beech forest. The path is flat, wide, and well-maintained, offering a gentle introduction to what lies ahead. Moss-draped trees create a fairytale atmosphere, and the river gurgles alongside the track.

The walking is easy, taking me through lush rainforest with glimpses of mountains through the canopy. Wetland sections are traversed via boardwalks, keeping your feet dry.

After 5 kilometers of pleasant walking, Clinton Hut (40 bunks) appears in a clearing beside the Clinton River. The hut is comfortable with flush toilets, running water, and a large communal area. I arrived with plenty of time to explore the area, wash in the river, and meet fellow trampers.

The warden gives an evening briefing about the track ahead, weather forecasts, and safety information. I spent the evening relaxing, cooking dinner, and preparing for the longer day ahead.

DAY 2: CLINTON HUT TO MINTARO HUT (16.5 km / 10.3 miles, 6 hours)

Day two is the longest and most challenging day, crossing Mackinnon Pass at 1,154 meters elevation.

The morning section continues up the Clinton Valley on a gentle gradient. The trail remains in the forest initially, following the Clinton River as it narrows. After about 8 kilometers, I reached the treeline, and suddenly the landscape opened up.

The Clinton Valley stretched before me, a stunning U-shaped glacial valley with mountains rising steeply on both sides. The trail crosses the valley floor on boardwalks through tussock grasslands with views to the pass ahead.

At the base of Mackinnon Pass, the real climbing begins. The trail zigzags steeply up the eastern face through sub-alpine scrub. This section took me about 1.5 hours of steady climbing, with several stops to catch my breath and admire the expanding views.

The summit of Mackinnon Pass is marked by a shelter and a memorial to Quintin Mackinnon and Donald Sutherland, the track’s pioneers. On a clear day, the views are phenomenal in every direction. I could see back down the Clinton Valley and ahead into the Arthur Valley.

From the pass, I took the side trip to Memorial Shelter, adding 10 minutes each way. The views from here are even better, with the full sweep of mountains visible.

The descent from Mackinnon Pass is steep initially, dropping through alpine terrain before entering the forest again. About an hour down, I reached Quintin Huts, the emergency shelter, where many people stop for lunch.

Continuing down, I passed Roaring Burn, a cascade tumbling down the mountainside, before reaching Mintaro Hut (40 bunks). This hut sits in the Arthur Valley, and I arrived tired but exhilarated after this big day.

The hut has a wood burner in the common room, which was welcome as evening temperatures cooled. The warden’s briefing included information about the optional side trip to Sutherland Falls for the following morning.

DAY 3: MINTARO HUT TO DUMPLING HUT (14 km / 8.7 miles, 6 hours including Sutherland Falls)

Day three began with an optional side trip to Sutherland Falls, and I highly recommend starting early for this. The detour adds about 1.5 hours return but is absolutely worth it.

The trail to Sutherland Falls heads up a side valley, climbing gently through forest. After 45 minutes, I emerged at the base of Sutherland Falls, where 580 meters of water cascades down in three spectacular drops. It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, and standing at the base, feeling the spray and thunder of the falls, was a highlight of the entire track.

Returning to the main track, the trail descends the Arthur Valley, following the Arthur River downstream. This section is beautiful, with the river flowing through a narrow gorge at times, opening into wider sections where the forest is lush and green.

The trail includes several swing bridges crossing the river and tributaries. Each crossing offers excellent views up and down the valley.

About halfway through the day, I reached MacKay Falls, where the Arthur River drops 55 meters in a powerful cascade. There’s a viewing platform right beside the falls, and I spent time here enjoying lunch and the spectacle.

Shortly beyond MacKay Falls, the track passes Bell Rock, a massive boulder that creates an impressive overhang. It’s a popular photo spot.

The final section to Dumpling Hut (40 bunks) continues through dense rainforest, with the trail occasionally climbing over bluffs before descending back to river level. The forest here is incredibly lush, with thick moss covering everything.

Dumpling Hut is situated on a flat beside the Arthur River, and I arrived in the mid-afternoon. This is the most remote-feeling of the three huts, deep in the forest with sandflies abundant (the hut’s namesake refers to a nearby mountain, not the insects, thankfully).

DAY 4: DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT (18 km / 11.2 miles, 5.5 hours)

The final day offers varied scenery as the track descends from the mountains toward the coast.

The trail continues through rainforest, descending gradually alongside the Arthur River. The forest here is different from earlier days, with larger trees and a more temperate rainforest feel.

After about 5 kilometers, I reached Giant Gate Falls, a short side trip off the main track. The falls drop 27 meters through a narrow chasm, and it’s a spectacular sight worth the 5-minute detour.

Continuing, the track meets Lake Ada, a beautiful alpine lake nestled in the forest. There’s a shelter here at Ada Flat, and many people stop for morning tea.

From Lake Ada, the trail climbs over a low pass before descending through forest to the coast. This final section winds through dense vegetation, eventually emerging at Sandfly Point on the shore of Milford Sound.

True to its name, sandflies are abundant here, so I quickly put on insect repellent while waiting for the boat. The boat departs in the afternoon, and the cruise across Milford Sound to the terminal is a fitting finale. Waterfalls cascade from the mountains, and if you’re lucky, you might spot seals or dolphins.

Arriving at Milford Sound terminal, tired but triumphant, I reflected on four incredible days walking through some of Earth’s most beautiful wilderness.

HUTS ON THE MILFORD TRACK

The three huts on the Milford Track are well-maintained and comfortable, making the multi-day journey much more enjoyable.

CLINTON HUT

The first night’s accommodation has 40 bunks across several bunk rooms. Facilities include flush toilets, running cold water, and a large communal dining and cooking area. There are washing facilities outside, and a wood burner provides warmth on cool evenings. The hut sits beside the Clinton River in a peaceful forest clearing.

MINTARO HUT

Located in the Arthur Valley beneath Mackinnon Pass, Mintaro Hut accommodates 40 people. This hut has similar facilities to Clinton Hut, with bunks, flush toilets, and running water. The wood burner in the common area is especially appreciated after the challenging day crossing the pass. The setting is more open than Clinton Hut, with mountain views.

DUMPLING HUT

The final night’s hut is the most remote, deep in the Arthur Valley rainforest. With 40 bunks, flush toilets, and running water, it has all essential facilities. The wood burner provides warmth and a place to dry gear. Sandflies are more prevalent here, so the hut’s fly screens are essential.

HUT AMENITIES

All huts have:

Mattresses on bunks (bring your own sleeping bag)
Communal cooking and eating areas with tables and benches
Gas cookers for preparing meals
Basic cooking equipment (pots and pans)
Lighting (solar-powered)
Rainwater collection or river water
Flush toilets
Wood burners

Huts do not have:

Bedding (bring sleeping bag and pillow)
Showers (cold water wash only)
Food (bring all your own)
Cell phone coverage
Internet or WiFi

Resident wardens at each hut during the Great Walks season provide information, coordinate facilities, and deliver evening briefings.

BEST TIME TO HIKE THE MILFORD TRACK

The best time to hike the Milford Track is during the Great Walks season from late October to late April. Within this period, certain times are better than others.

November to December: Early summer offers longer daylight hours, wildflowers in bloom, and lower visitor numbers than mid-season. However, snow may still be present on Mackinnon Pass in November, and river levels can be high from spring snowmelt.

January to March: Peak summer delivers the warmest temperatures and most stable weather, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is the busiest period, with huts fully booked. I hiked in late January and experienced mostly fine weather with occasional afternoon showers.

April: Late season offers fewer crowds, autumn colors in the beech forests, and still-reasonable weather. However, days are shorter, and late April can see early winter storms.

WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS

Fiordland is one of the wettest places on Earth, receiving over 7 meters of rain annually. Rain is possible any day, regardless of season. I experienced both sunshine and heavy rain during my four days.

Be prepared for all weather conditions. Temperatures range from 10-25°C during summer days, dropping to 5-10°C at night. On Mackinnon Pass, temperatures can be significantly colder, especially with wind chill.

The track does not close due to rain, but severe weather can make conditions challenging. Follow warden advice, particularly regarding river crossings and the pass crossing in bad weather.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE MILFORD TRACK

Packing correctly is crucial for an enjoyable experience. You must carry everything for four days, so balance necessity with weight.

Hiking Boots: Essential. I wore well-broken-in, waterproof hiking boots. The track includes steep sections, and good ankle support is important. Similar to these Salomon or Merrell boots.

Backpack: A 50-65 liter pack is ideal for carrying four days of gear and food. Ensure it’s comfortable and fits well. I used a 60L pack weighing about 15kg fully loaded.

Sleeping Bag: Huts provide mattresses but no bedding. Bring a sleeping bag rated to at least 5°C. A silk sleeping bag liner adds warmth and comfort.

Sleeping Mat: Optional but recommended for extra comfort on the basic mattresses.

Waterproof Jacket: Absolutely essential. Rain is likely, and a quality waterproof jacket is your best defense. Ensure it’s breathable for comfort while hiking.

Waterproof Pants: Essential. I wore mine on two of the four days when rain was persistent.

Hiking Clothes: Bring moisture-wicking layers. I packed:

2-3 short-sleeve hiking shirts
1 long-sleeve shirt
2 pairs of hiking pants/shorts
Warm fleece or down jacket
Underwear and socks (3-4 pairs)
Warm hat and sun hat
Gloves (for the pass in cool weather)

Cooking Equipment: Bring:

Cooking pot and utensils (or use hut equipment)
Plate, bowl, cup
Knife, fork, spoon
Lighter or matches
Tea towel

Food: Four days of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. I brought:

Dehydrated meals for dinners
Instant oatmeal for breakfasts
Wraps, cheese, and salami for lunches
Trail mix, chocolate, energy bars for snacks
Tea, coffee, hot chocolate

Water: Carry at least 2 liters. Water is available at huts, but carry capacity for the day’s walking. I used a 3L hydration bladder.

First Aid Kit: Include blister treatment, pain relief, bandages, any personal medications.

Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, sunscreen, insect repellent.

Other Essentials:

Headlamp with extra batteries
Sunglasses
Camera and extra batteries
Map and compass/GPS
Emergency whistle
Personal locator beacon (recommended)
Sandfly repellent (essential!)
Towel (quick-dry)
Dry bags to keep gear dry

Optional Items:

Trekking poles (highly recommended for knee support)
Book or cards for hut evenings
Lightweight camp shoes for wearing at huts
Gaiters (useful in wet conditions)

PACK WEIGHT

Keep your pack weight reasonable. Mine was about 15kg including food and water, which felt manageable over four days. Anything over 18-20kg becomes uncomfortable on the longer days.

SAFETY AND REGULATIONS

The Milford Track is generally safe, but wilderness hazards exist.

Track Rules:

Walk north to south only (Glade Wharf to Sandfly Point)
Stay at designated huts each night (no camping)
No fires except in hut fireplaces
Carry out all rubbish
Stay on marked tracks
No dogs or other pets

River Crossings: All major crossings have bridges. If water is high and the bridge is deemed unsafe, wardens will advise. Never attempt to cross flooded rivers.

Weather: Can change rapidly. Always check forecasts with wardens. If weather is severe, consider waiting or turning back.

Sandflies: These tiny biting insects are abundant, especially near water and at Sandfly Point. They’re worst in calm, warm conditions. Use repellent containing DEET, cover exposed skin, and keep moving.

Emergency: Cell phone coverage is non-existent. In emergencies, contact hut wardens or use emergency communication equipment at huts. Carry a personal locator beacon if possible.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

The Milford Track offers incredible photography opportunities.

Best Shots:

Sutherland Falls from the base
Views from Mackinnon Pass in both directions
Clinton Valley from the upper section
Swing bridges with mountains behind
Waterfalls at MacKay Falls and Giant Gate
Milford Sound from the boat

Equipment: I carried a mirrorless camera with a 24-70mm lens, which covered most situations. A wide-angle lens is excellent for landscapes, and a telephoto helps with distant peaks and waterfalls.

Weather Protection: Keep camera gear in dry bags. Rain can appear suddenly, and protecting your equipment is essential.

Timing: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light. The middle section of each day is ideal for photography breaks.

Drones: Check current DOC regulations. Some areas permit drones, others don’t. Always fly responsibly and respect other hikers.

GUIDED VS INDEPENDENT

Both options have merits.

Independent Walking:

More affordable (around NZD $350-450 total including huts and boats)
Freedom and flexibility
Carry all your own gear and food
Stay in DOC huts
Need to book well in advance

Guided Walks:

Significantly more expensive (NZD $3,000-4,000+)
All meals provided and prepared
Stay in private lodges with more comfort
Guides provide information and handle logistics
Easier to secure bookings
Less weight to carry (guides transport your main pack between lodges)

I chose independent walking for the challenge and affordability, and I loved the experience. However, guided walks suit those wanting more comfort and less planning.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to be fit? Reasonable fitness is required. If you can comfortably walk 6-7 hours with a loaded pack, you’ll be fine. Day 2 crossing Mackinnon Pass is the most demanding.

What if it rains? Expect rain. It’s part of the Fiordland experience. With proper waterproofs, rain doesn’t stop the track being amazing. Waterfalls are more spectacular after rain.

Can I do it faster or slower? No. The four-day itinerary is mandatory, and you must stay at designated huts each night during the Great Walks season.

Are there showers? No. Only cold water wash facilities at huts. Many people wash in the river.

What about phone coverage? None. Embrace the digital detox.

How far ahead should I book? As far as possible. Popular dates (especially January-February) book out when reservations open. Book 6-9 months ahead if you can.

Can children do it? Yes, if they’re fit and experienced hikers. The track is suitable for families with teenagers. Younger children capable of walking the distances with a light pack can also manage, though it’s demanding.

What fitness level is needed? You should be comfortable hiking 5-7 hours daily with a 15kg pack. Regular hiking or walking in the months before will prepare you well.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Milford Track exceeded my expectations in every way. From the peaceful forests of the Clinton Valley to the dramatic alpine crossing at Mackinnon Pass, from the thundering power of Sutherland Falls to the serene beauty of Lake Ada, every day delivered something special.

Yes, it rains. Yes, there are sandflies. Yes, it requires planning and booking ahead. But none of that diminishes what makes this track special: the raw, untouched wilderness, the scale of the landscapes, and the sense of achievement when you step off the boat at Milford Sound after four days in the mountains.

Whether you’re an experienced tramper or a confident beginner, the Milford Track offers an accessible yet rewarding wilderness experience. The infrastructure of huts and maintained trails means you can focus on enjoying the journey rather than survival, yet you still feel genuinely immersed in nature.

If you’re considering the Milford Track, my advice is simple: book it, prepare properly, embrace whatever weather comes, and open yourself to the experience. This track has earned its reputation as one of the world’s great walks, and you’ll understand why with every step.

The memories of those four days in Fiordland—the mountains, waterfalls, forests, and the simple pleasure of walking through such magnificent country—will stay with me forever.