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Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
This 53.5 km (33.5 miles) "finest walk in the world" is of medium difficulty and is always walked in 4 days / 3 nights.
Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Click on the arrow button
below to explore this walk.
Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU VISITORS CENTRE - We gather here to check track conditions and pick up our hut, bus and boat tickets. Then we wait on the seats outside to catch the shuttle bus for the half hour drive to Te Anau Downs Wharf.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU TO TE ANAU DOWNS - The bus trip from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs Wharf takes about half an hour.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU TO TE ANAU DOWNS - On the bus, heading to Te Anau Downs Wharf.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU DOWNS WHARF - Our boat, the "Fiordland Express" has come to pick us up.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU DOWNS TO GLADE WHARF - The boat trip to Glade Wharf will take about an hour and a quarter. Coffee and tea are provided.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU DOWNS TO GLADE WHARF - Looking up the North Arm of Lake Te Anau.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TE ANAU DOWNS TO GLADE WHARF - Arriving at Glade Wharf. When the lake water level is high, sections of the wharf can be under water.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE WHARF - Exiting the boat, we are instructed to pick up a pack - any pack - from the pile of packs and carry it ashore. We can sort out whose pack is whose when we're on dry land. Once on the wharf, we step in a tub of disinfectant to clean our boots and walking pole tips in order to prevent the introduction of Didymo (an invasive algae) and walk ashore.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE WHARF - A quick stop to take photos and meet the first sandflies and characters on the Milford Track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE WHARF TO GLADE HOUSE - The 20 minute stroll to Glade House is easy, wide, smooth and flat. In the old days, packhorses used this track to bring supplies to the huts. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

sceneryMilford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE WHARF TO GLADE HOUSE - And so the Milford Track begins, with a crowd of strangers, all walking and talking together for the first time. However, if you walk quickly or if you brave the sandflies for a few more minutes and walk slowly, you can get the track all to yourself.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE WHARF TO GLADE HOUSE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE - After about half an hour of slow walking, we reach Glade House, where the guided walkers on the Milford Track spend their first night.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The easy stroll continues and the scenery just gets more and more beautiful as we follow the Clinton River upstream for about 1 hour 15 minutes to Clinton Hut. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - Swingbridge over the Clinton River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - This is the longest swingbridge we will encounter on this walk.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The 1 Mile Post (1.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The Clinton River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The 2 Mile Post (3.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The Clinton River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - Dore Pass (in the distance). If you don't like boats, the other way to start the Milford Track is the challenging route over Dore Pass.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The Clinton River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
WETLAND WALK - Ten minutes before we get to Clinton Hut, we come to this intersection. "Wetland Walk - 2 minutes". We leave our packs here and check out the side track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
WETLAND WALK - The track soon turns into a boardwalk and leads us out onto the Wetland. Here we find ourselves surrounded by moss and carnivorous sundews.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
WETLAND WALK - Because the soil here is poor in nutrients, there isn't much vegetation - and this means we get magnificent views.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - The turnoff to Clinton Hut

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GLADE HOUSE TO CLINTON HUT - Clinton Hut is visible through the trees.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT - 40 bunk beds, gas cooking (during Great Walks Season), lighting and woodburner in Kitchen / Dining Room. The building on the left and the one in the center of this photo are Bunkrooms. The building on the right is the Kitchen / Dining Room.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT
Right... Check in, find a bunk. Ranger's talk is at 5pm.
Leave your boots outside. No Kea problems here.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT
Hmmm... That's one side of the back bunkroom. Every bunk will be full. They always are on the Milford.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT - That's the other side of the bunkroom. The bunks are numbered. Choose one on the bottom and by an opening window, if you can. The bunkrooms are hot and often noisy at night.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT - Looking across the deck to the Kitchen / Dining Room.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT - Kitchen / Dining Room.
There are plenty of gas rings for cooking on but you'll need to bring your own cooking pots, bowl, cup, etc.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT - Kitchen / Dining Room.
After dinner, we are treated to a Hut Talk by legendary ranger, Ross Harraway.He covers all the basics and delivers a few gems, such as, "The rain only gets in as far as your skin" and then he takes us on a nature walk.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - This section of the track is easy and it takes about 4 hours 45 minutes. It is only in the last 15 minutes that the track really begins to climb as it heads up Practice Hill to Lake Mintaro. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - After an involuntarily early start, we eat breakfast, pack our gear, take another look at the river and then get back on the track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 3 Mile Post (4.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Part of the old Milford Track telephone system embedded in a tree.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 4 Mile Post (6.4km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON FORKS - Here, we see where the North Branch and the West Branch of the Clinton Valley merge. The Milford Track follows the West Branch.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 5 Mile Post (8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 6 Mile Post (9.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Those track markers are there so walkers can see where the track is when this section of the track floods.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 7 Mile Post (11.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
HIRERE SHELTER - This is a lunch stop for the guided walkers.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 8 Mile Post (12.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Here we get our first glimpse of Mackinnon Pass in the distance.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
HIDDEN LAKE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 9 Mile Post (14.4 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The Clinton River - West Branch

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
PRAIRIE LAKE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Ginny at Prairie Lake

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Now that we have left the forest, The Prairie opens up in front of us. It is an awe inspiring sight. In the distance, we see Mackinnon Pass, looming unthreateningly. It doesn't look that high from this distance...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Not much waterfall action today. On rainy days, you'll see waterfalls cascading everywhere. This photo was taken during what the locals call "a Fiordland drought". That's when it doesn't rain much for a few days.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - The 10 Mile Post (16 km) has obviously suffered some flood damage.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
PRAIRIE SHELTER. Time for lunch.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
BUS STOP SHELTER - If the river ahead is in flood, hikers are warned to wait here until the river level drops.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
BUS STOP SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
BUS STOP SHELTER - There is no toilet at this shelter. There used to be one, but a flood destroyed it. There used to be a bridge too - until a flood destroyed it.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MARLENE CREEK'S - The track now make its way across debris left behind by an old avalanche. This section can be extremely dangerous when the river is in flood.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MARLENE'S CREEK - Halfway across the avalanche debris we pass through a small stand of forest.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MARLENE'S CREEK - Then we re-emerge from the forest to cross the rest of the avalanche debris.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
CLINTON HUT TO POMPOLONA LODGE - Now the track beginc to climb more noticeably.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE - This is where the guided walkers spend their second night. We've got an hour and a half to go.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - Now, the track begins to climb towards Mintaro Hut. We should be at Mintaro Hut in about 1 hour 15 minutes. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - The 11 Mile Post (17.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA CREEK

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - The 12 Mile Post (19.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - Looking back down the valley.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - The 13 Mile Post (20.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - The track is becoming noticeably steeper.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
POMPOLONA LODGE TO MINTARO HUT - Turnoff to Mintaro Hut.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - 40 bunk beds, gas cooking (during Great Walks Season), lighting and woodburner in Kitchen / Dining Room. UPDATE: This is the now-historic old Mintaro Hut. It has been replaced by a much nicer brand new hut further up the track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Kea (New Zealand alpine parrot) - These clever little buggers will destroy your boots if you leave them lying around. At Mintaro Hut, walkers are strongly advised to hang their boots up on the pegs provided.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Boots hanging up on the pegs, safe from the local Kea population.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Dining Room

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Kitchen

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Bunkroom

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Bunkroom

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT - Helipad. Beneath the Helipad are the bathroom facilities.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - After an initially gentle start, the track soon zig-zags its way more than 500 meters up the seemingly near vertical mountainside. We should be at the top in about 2 hours. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Side track down to Lake Mintaro, source of the Clinton River. Hikers often come down here for a refreshing wash after they have dropped their packs off at the hut. From the hut, it is possible to tell the exact moment they first experience the icy cold water by their surprised screams.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
LAKE MINTARO - A great place for a very cool refreshing dip.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
LAKE MINTARO

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - The 14 Mile Post (22.4 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Last swingbridge over the Clinton River.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - The track zig-zags upwards for the next couple of hours.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - The 15 Mile Post (24 km). This is the halfway mark for the climb to Mackinnon Pass.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Climbing up above the bushline, we are treated to spectacular views.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - That mountain formation on the left is Nicholas Cirque. A cirque is an amphitheatre-like valley formed by glacial erosion.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - The 16 Mile Post (25.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - After a couple of hours of climbing, we come to Mackinnon Pass.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - Mackinnon Pass Memorial was erected in 1914 in honour of Quintin McKinnon (note the different spelling). nHe, along with Donald Sutherland and others, was responsible for slashing the route the Milford Track follows. McKinnon also promoted the Milford Track, as well as improving it and guiding groups across it.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - Mackinnon Pass Memorial was built from stone which was collected on the pass.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - Looking down into the Arthur Valley, over what is famously known as "The 12 Second Drop". It's over 500 meters (1640 ft) straight down. For that reason and because I get vertigo, I don't go any closer.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - The sign by that tarn says, "Mackinnon Shelter - 30 minutes".

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS - Looking back towards the monument. We are lucky to have a relatively clear day. Half the people who walk the Milford Track don't get to see these views.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - What??? More climbing?

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - And so, we reach the highest point on the Milford Track. It's all pretty much downhill from here. That makes it sound so much easier than it really is. Going uphill is hard - but going downhill hurts... Oh well. It's almost lunchtime.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Looking back down the Clinton Valley West Branch.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MINTARO HUT TO MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - There's the shelter!

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Made it! This is the fifth and most substantial shelter to be built here. As much as possible, it was prefabricated and helicoptered in for assembly.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - Although the shelter provides weather protection from heavy rain, strong wind, snow and freezing temperatures, walkers are advised not to sleep here unless it is an emergency.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER - The famous "Loo With A View".

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Even though the climb up to Mackinnon Pass was hard, it wasn't "The Hard Bit". The hard bit is this next section. A steep 3.5 hour descent of more than 850 meters (over 2750 ft) that is made up of rocks, tree roots and (in the ridiculous steep bits) impressive wooden staircases. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - The 17 Mile Post (27.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - The 850 meter (2789 ft) descent from here to the floor of the Arthur Valley about begins with a series of steep zig-zags.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - This is the top of the Emergency Track. When there is a high risk of avalanches, the gate ahead is locked and walkers have to descend via the Emergency Track - a much steeper and rougher route.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - After the zig-zag section, the track becomes narrow and rougher as it hugs the cliff face. This bit felt quite dodgy and we heard later that a walker following us actually fell off the track and down the hillside near this point.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - The 18 Mile Post (28.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Bridge over the headwaters of The Roaring Burn. This type of bridge is removed by the Department of Conservation during the off-season because of the risk of destruction by avalanches.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Ginny, at the head of the Arthur Valley. That long flat ridgeline in the upper left is "The 12 Second Drop".

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Ahead in the distance, we can see the top leap of Sutherland Falls.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - An old workers hut beside the track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE - As spectacularly beautiful as the rest of the Milford Track is, this next section might just be the most beautiful bit.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE - Maureen Falls

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE - The track descends steeply via a series of staircases.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE - Dudleigh Falls

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
ANDERSON'S CASCADE SHELTER - Time for a rest. The way down has been steep and rocky. As more walkers arrive, at least one (our friend, Lee) can be heard emphatically discussing the merits of rocks and not in very complimentary terms.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Swingbridge over The Roaring Burn.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - The 19 Mile Post (30.4 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - The 20 Mile Post (32 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - Lindsey Falls.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - We made it to the bottom! Now, we turn left and head to Sutherland Falls.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - One last swingbridge over The Roaring Burn...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKINNON PASS SHELTER TO QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE - ...and then it's a short flat walk through the bush...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
...to QUINTIN DAY SHELTER.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN DAY SHELTER - We leave our packs here so we can walk up to Sutherland Falls carrying as little as possible.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN DAY SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE - Meanwhile, the guided walkers are slowly shuffling their way into Quintin Lodge, where they will spend their last night on the track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN DAY SHELTER & LODGE TO SUTHERLAND FALLS
This easy side track is 45 minutes each way.
Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - This side track is optional, but even though we're tired, it'd be a shame not to go and see the fifth highest waterfall in the world...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - Swingbridge across Staircase Creek.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - Staircase Creek

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - Steps. We will be climbing about 130 meters on this side track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - The distance from this sign to the waterfall is equal to the height of the waterfall. Wow...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS - Staircase Creek

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SIDE TRACK TO SUTHERLAND FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - The walk from Quintin to Dumpling Hut takes somewhere between an hour and an hour and a half. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - First, we must go back across The Roaring Burn via the swingbridge...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - And then we come back to this intersection.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - Now we follow the Arthur River downstream.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - The 21 Mile Post (33.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - The 22 Mile Post (35.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - This raised walkway comes in handy when this section floods.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
QUINTIN LODGE TO DUMPLING HUT - These track markers confirm the flood risk on this part of the track.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - At last, after a really big day, we've made it to Dumpling Hut...

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - But first - a swim. We drop our packs here and follow the short track down to the river.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - It's cold - but it's beautiful once you're in (very briefly).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Looking down the Arthur Valley towards Milford Sound.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - 40 bunk beds, gas cooking (during Great Walks Season), lighting and woodburner in Kitchen / Dining Room.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - One of the two Bunkrooms. I've stayed here twice. On the first night I was here, the Ranger said, "Bring your boots into the bunkroom. The Kea have learned how to get the boots down off the pegs and they will destroy your boots." The second time I was here (four days later), the other Ranger was on duty and she said, "Leave your boots outside." The Kea never touch people's boots when she's there.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Bunkroom

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Looking up towards the Kitchen / Dining Room.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Kitchen / Dining Room

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Kitchen / Dining Room

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Woodburning stove and drying racks.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Walking times for the last day's walk. We have to catch a boat ride at the end, so there is an element of time pressure.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT - Standing on the deck of the Kitchen / Dining building, looking down towards the Bunkrooms. The building on the left is the Ranger's Hut.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - This section of the track is once again easy and stunningly beautiful, although the track is a bit less well-formed than on the first two days as it follows the Arthur River downstream for 5 hours 30 minutes to Sandfly Point Shelter. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 23 Mile Post (36.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 24 Mile Post (38.4 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 25 Mile Post (40 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
THE BOAT SHED - This is a lunch stop for guided walkers.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
THE BOAT SHED - Looking down the Arthur Valley from The Boat Shed. A breath-taking view which is even more notable for its spectacular density of sandflies. I've never experienced anything like it. Take a photo and run.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 26 Mile Post (41.6 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Swingbridge over the Arthur River.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The Arthur River, looking downstream from the swingbridge towards Milford Sound.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Mackay Creek swingbridge

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Mackay Creek

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Viewing platform for Mackay Falls.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Bell Rock - This rock is hollow inside. You can crawl under it and then stand up inside it.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
MACKAY FALLS - This place is so beautiful, it's almost other-worldly.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 27 Mile Post (43.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The Arthur River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 28 Mile Post (44.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Poseidon Creek swingbridge

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Poseidon Creek, looking downstream.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 29 Mile Post (46.4 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The Arthur River

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TELEGRAPH POINT (THE CUTTING) - This part of the track was blasted out of a solid rockface with large amounts of dynamite by prison convicts who were brought in to do the job in the 1890s. Working conditions were rather grim and some of the convicts escaped into the wilderness.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TELEGRAPH POINT (THE CUTTING) - Looking across the Arthur Valley

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TELEGRAPH POINT (THE CUTTING)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
TELEGRAPH POINT (THE CUTTING) - Here, the track builders have scratched their names in the rock.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 30 Mile Post (48 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GIANT GATE SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GIANT GATE SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GIANT GATE - Giant Gate swingbridge - This swingbridge was destroyed in a massive flood in February 2020, when a meter of rain fell in 3 days. The new replacement bridge is longer and higher.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GIANT GATE FALLS - On a nice day, this is the spot to have lunch.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
GIANT GATE FALLS

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 31 Mile Post (49.6 km). Here we see a couple of guided walkers, each experiencing their own particular level of joy along the trail.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 32 Mile Post (51.2 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - A little side track leading to Lake Ada.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
LAKE ADA

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - The 33 Mile Post (52.8 km)

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Camp Oven Creek

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT - Looking down the Arthur River towards Milford Sound.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
DUMPLING HUT TO SANDFLY POINT

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT SHELTER

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT SHELTER - The room on the right is for independent walkers. The more spacious room on the left is for the guided walkers.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT - Walking down towards the wharf.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT - This is it. The end of the Milford Track. We've done it.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT - Looking towards Milford Sound. The water taxi will come soon and take us to the ferry terminus at Milford Sound. The trip will take about 20 minutes. Until then, we head back to Sandfly Point Shelter to shelter from the - you guessed it - sandflies.

Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

MILFORD TRACK - Fiordland National Park
SANDFLY POINT TO MILFORD SOUND - Today's walk is easy and stunningly beautiful. The wide, flat and smooth path follows the Clinton River upstream for an hour and a half (5 km) to Clinton Hut. Once there, we will have plenty of time to explore. Map Data: Google, Digital Globe, Department of Conservation (DOC).