Dubbed “the finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track is the most famous of all the Great Walks — a 53.5 km, 4-day journey through the heart of Fiordland to Milford Sound, past towering valleys, the Mackinnon Pass and the enormous Sutherland Falls.
The basics
- Distance: 53.5 km, 4 days / 3 nights (set itinerary — everyone walks the same direction, one way).
- Difficulty: Intermediate, but long days and serious weather.
- One direction only: It starts at Glade Wharf (boat across Lake Te Anau) and ends at Sandfly Point (boat to Milford). Transport is part of the package — plan it.
Booking & season (read this)
The Milford is the hardest Great Walk to book. Season runs roughly late October to April, and huts book out almost instantly (~95% full). 2026/27 bookings opened 13 May 2026 at 9:30am — you need a DOC account ready and a fast finger. Outside season it’s an advanced, hazardous alpine trip.
What to expect
Rain (Fiordland is one of the wettest places on Earth — that’s the point, the waterfalls are unreal), sandflies (bring repellent), and scenery that lives up to the hype.
What to bring
Full wet-weather gear, boots, layers and all food. Check DOC alerts — flooding can close sections.
Can’t get a booking? Our Milford Sound and Fiordland posts show how to experience the area for free. A Campervanz van makes Te Anau an easy base.
