A Guide to the Best Day Walks in Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is one of our absolute favourite places in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Home to ancient beech forests, dramatic glacier-carved landscapes, rare native wildlife and of course the “8th Wonder of the World” - Piopiotahi / Milford Sound - this is a region that leaves a positive lasting mark on every traveller.

Beyond the world-famous Milford Sound cruise, Te Rua-o-te-Moko / Fiordland is a true walker’s paradise. To help you plan your time in this rugged part of Southland, we’ve rounded up the best day walks in Fiordland National Park, suitable for all abilities, with access from Te Anau, Manapouri, Milford Sound and the Milford Road.

Level 1 – Short Walks (Under 60 Minutes)

The Chasm – Milford Road

20 mins return | Accessible

Formed by thousands of years of rushing water carving through the Cleddau River, The Chasm showcases powerful waterfalls thundering through sculpted rock formations. 

Lake Marian Falls – Milford Road

20 mins return

This gentle boardwalk track leads you past a series of stunning waterfalls flowing down from Lake Marian high in the hanging valley. A great taste of Fiordland’s alpine landscapes.

Image courtesy of Great South

Mirror Lakes – Milford Road

20 mins return | Accessible

One of the most iconic stops on the drive to Milford Sound. These small ‘oxbow’ lakes were created by bends in the Eglinton River and offer mirror-like reflections of the Earl Mountains. Keep an eye out for tuna (eels) and pāpango (scaup), New Zealand’s smallest duck.

Frasers Beach Track – Manapouri

30 mins loop

From Pearl Harbour, wander along the lakeshore for beautiful views of Lake Manapouri. It’s particularly beautiful if you find yourself here at sunset, but be sure to bring the sandfly repellent.

Image courtesy of Great South

Humboldt Falls – Hollyford Road

30 mins return

At the end of the unsealed Hollyford Road, you’ll find one of Fiordland’s most impressive waterfalls. The 275-metre tiered Humboldt Falls drop spectacularly from the Serpentine Range.

Lake Gunn Nature Walk – Milford Road

40 mins loop | Accessible

A peaceful loop track around moss-draped beech forest with views across Lake Gunn and the surrounding mountains. A great family-friendly walk.

Image courtesy of Tim Roxborough

Te Anau Lakefront to Bird Sanctuary – Te Anau

30 mins return

A short stroll along Lake Te Anau takes you to the Punanga Manu o Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, home to the rare takahē, whio and cheeky kākā. You can continue on to the Control Gates (approx. +35 mins each way).

Level 2 – Moderate Walks (1–3 Hours)

Milford Track: Sandfly Point to Giant Gate Falls – Milford Sound

3 hrs return + water taxi (50 mins each way)

This beautiful section of the world-renowned Milford Track follows the Arthur River to the postcard-perfect Giant Gate Falls, crossed via a famous swing bridge. Accessible only by water taxi from Deep Water Basin.

Image courtesy of Liz Carlson

Milford Track: Te Anau Downs to Clinton Hut – Te Anau Downs

3 hrs return + water taxi (50 mins each way)

Walk through lush rainforest along the emerald Clinton River to the historic Clinton Hut. A great spot for a swim or lunch before returning.

Routeburn Track: Lake Howden – The Divide

3 hrs return

Leaving from The Divide carpark, follow the Routeburn Track through silver beech forest to the serene Lake Howden, surrounded by dramatic Fiordland peaks.

Routeburn Track: Key Summit – The Divide

3 hrs return

A classic Fiordland hike. Climb through the forest to reach Key Summit, a high alpine plateau with epic views of the Darran Mountains, alpine tarns and Fiordland’s highest peak, Mount Tūtoko. Look out for kererū, South Island robins, bellbirds, and tomtits.

Te Anau to Upukerora River Mouth – Te Anau

3 hrs return

A gentle lakeside walk along the Te Anau waterfront, finishing at the Upukerora River Mouth. Either return the same way or loop back via the riverside trail.

Kepler Track: Brod Bay – Te Anau / Control Gates

3 hrs return

Start at the Control Gates and follow the Kepler Track to Dock Bay and Brod Bay, both perfect for a picnic or swim. You can walk back or take a scenic water taxi across Lake Te Anau.

Level 3 – Challenging Walks (3–10 Hours)

Lake Marian – Milford Road

3.5 hrs return

A steep, rugged and sometimes hand-over-foot trail leads to one of Fiordland’s most photogenic alpine lakes. Lake Marian sits in a hanging valley surrounded by sheer peaks. Best done in summer or with a guide—winter conditions pose avalanche risks.

Image courtesy of Great South

Circle Track – Lake Manapouri

3.5 hrs loop + water taxi

Start with a water taxi from Pearl Harbour, then follow a scenic riverside track into the bush before climbing the steep loop. Stunning viewpoints over Lake Manapouri and the surrounding ranges.

Pearl Harbour to Hope Arm – Manapouri

4–6 hrs return

A varied track along the Waiau River and through ancient forest before opening onto a quiet beach at Hope Arm, complete with a small hut. A beautiful, secluded lunch spot.

Kepler Track: Shallow Bay & Moturau Hut – Te Anau

3.5–4 hrs return

From the Rainbow Reach carpark, enjoy swing bridges, beech forest, wetlands, and riverside scenery. Ideal for families and those wanting a taste of the Kepler without the full multi-day commitment.

Kepler Track: Luxmore Hut – Te Anau

8–10 hrs return

A big day out and one of Fiordland’s most rewarding hikes. Begin at the Control Gates, pass Brod Bay and climb steadily through beech forest to reach Luxmore Hut. Make time to explore the nearby caves and summit. You can hike back or treat yourself to a water taxi from Brod Bay.

Kepler Track: Rainbow Reach to Control Gates – Te Anau

5–6 hrs return

Follow the beautiful Waiau River, featured in the Lord of the Rings films. If you're short on time, shuttle transfers make this a great one-way option.

Staying Safe on Fiordland Walks

Fiordland is remote, rugged, and wild. Whether you’re joining a guide or heading out independently, follow these five simple safety rules:

1. Choose the right trip for you

Research your track, understand the terrain and be honest about your fitness level.

2. Understand the weather

Fiordland is one of the wettest and wildest places on Earth, where conditions change fast. Check forecasts and always have a plan B.

3. Prepare properly

Pack warm layers, waterproof gear, extra food, and plenty of water. For longer or higher-risk tracks, carry a personal locator beacon. Supportive hiking boots (not sneakers) are essential for anything beyond Level 1.

4. Share your plans

Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Set a date and time to raise the alarm if they have not yet heard from you.

5. Take care of yourself and each other

Rest when needed, stay hydrated and stick together as a group.

Ready to Explore Fiordland?

From short lakeside strolls to iconic alpine tracks, Fiordland National Park is filled with unforgettable walking experiences. Get in touch with Touring New Zealand - we’d love to help you plan your ultimate Fiordland adventure.