First pioneered in 1888 by Quintin Mackinnon and Ernest Mitchell, the Milford Track holds an indelible title as "The Finest Walk in the World." Winding through the UNESCO World Heritage area of Te Wahipounamu, the track must be walked in a strict one-way direction (from Glade Wharf at Lake Te Anau to Sandfly Point at Milford Sound) during the Great Walks season from late October to late April.
Day-by-Day Expedition Breakdown
After boarding the scheduled ferry across Lake Te Anau from Te Anau Downs, disembark at Glade Wharf. The day begins with an easy, flat warm-up wander through towering beech forest along the emerald Clinton River to Clinton Hut. Take the evening nature walk to the wetland boardwalk where native whio (blue ducks) frequently feed in the fast-flowing currents.
A steady ascent following the Clinton River right into Clinton Canyon. Marvel at 1,000-metre sheer granite rock walls soaring vertically on either side. Pass through the "Prairie" meadow and explore the side track to hidden Clinton Forks before reaching the newly rebuilt Mintaro Hut situated near the base of Mackinnon Pass.
The pinnacle day of the expedition. Ascend 10 zig-zag switchbacks to Mackinnon Pass Memorial (1,154m), offering staggering 360-degree panoramas across Clinton Canyon and the Arthur Valley. After descending past the Roaring Burn cascades, take the mandatory 1.5-hour return side track to Sutherland Falls (580m), plunging from Lake Quill in three thunderous tiers.
Follow the Arthur River past Mackay Falls and Bell Rock. Cross multiple swing bridges over turbulent mountain rivers before reaching the milestone signpost at Sandfly Point. A short 15-minute boat shuttle transfers hikers directly to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi wharf beneath Mitre Peak.
Essential Gear Checklist for Fiordland
Fiordland is one of the wettest places on earth, receiving between 6,000 and 8,000 mm of annual rainfall. Cotton clothing is strictly hazardous. Pack the following mandatory items:
- Seam-sealed 3-layer waterproof jacket: Minimum 20,000mm hydrostatic head rating.
- Thermal layers: Merino wool or synthetic polypropylene tops and bottoms.
- Dry bags / Heavy-duty pack liner: To ensure your sleeping bag and dry camp clothing stay bone dry in river surges.
- Sandfly repellent: Natural DEET or Picaridin formulations for Sandfly Point.
- Cookware & DOC gas stove matches: All food for 4 days must be carried on your back.