Experience the ultimate Fiordland hikes and walks with this comprehensive guide to the best trails in the region. From short strolls to multi-day treks, discover the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views that Fiordland has to offer.

Step 1: Short Walks in the Fiordland National Park

If you’re seeking a quick but rewarding outdoor experience, the Fiordland National Park offers a range of short walks perfect for a leisurely stroll. These walks are ideal for families, solo hikers, or those looking to explore the stunning landscapes without committing to longer hikes. Here are some of the best short walks in the Fiordland National Park:

Lakeshore Walk from Te Anau towards the Control Gates

Starting in Te Anau, the Lakeshore walk follows the lake towards the Lake Te Anau control gates. This easy, flat, and scenic walk offers beautiful views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains, taking about 1 to 2 hours to complete. It’s an ideal leisurely stroll after arriving in town.

Kepler Track from the Rainbow Reach Bridge

This section of the Kepler track takes you from the Rainbow Reach Bridge towards Lake Manapouri. It’s a flat and easy walk through beautiful beech forest and along the Wairau River, offering a glimpse of scenes from the Lord of the Rings movie. You can walk for an hour or two, returning to the same starting point.

These short walks provide a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of the Fiordland National Park, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscapes without committing to a full day of hiking.

New Zealand Trip Planning – YouTube
Must things to do in New Zealand – YouTube
Beyond Belief – Visit Fiordland
Explore Fiordland with us – Trips & Tramps

Step 2: Intermediate Hikes in the Fiordland National Park

For those with a bit more time and seeking a moderate challenge, the Fiordland National Park offers a range of intermediate day hikes that are perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes and natural beauty of the region. These hikes typically range from 3 to 5 hours, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. Here are some of the best intermediate hikes in the Fiordland National Park:

Key Summit Track

The Key Summit track is a 3 to 4-hour alpine trip that forms part of the Routeburn Track. Starting from The Divide, located on the Milford Road, this moderately difficult hike ascends through beech forest to the Alpine Key Summit Plateau, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Fiordland mountains, valleys, and lakes on a fine day.

Lake Marian Track

This moderate track leads to the stunning Lake Marian, nestled in a hanging valley. The 3 to 4-hour trail follows a series of waterfalls before reaching the lake, offering a mix of forest and alpine scenery. With a good fitness level, it’s possible to combine the Key Summit Track with Lake Marian as a day trip from Te Anau.

Milford Track Day Walk

The 3 to 4-hour Milford day track is part of the famous multi-day hike. It’s an easy flat walk that starts at the end of the Milford Sound Sandfly Point. Consider going on a guided walk with a local hiking operator for a truly immersive experience that includes a transfer from Te Anau and a cruise in the afternoon on Milford Sound.

These intermediate hikes provide the perfect balance of challenge and reward, allowing you to delve deeper into the natural wonders of Fiordland on a day-long adventure.

New Zealand Trip Planning – YouTube
Must things to do in New Zealand – YouTube
Beyond Belief – Visit Fiordland
Explore Fiordland with us – Trips & Tramps

Step 3: Full Day Hikes in the Fiordland National Park

For those seeking a full day of adventure, Fiordland offers longer hikes that take you deeper into the Wilderness. It’s essential to use quality hiking gear such as rain jackets, layers of clothing, good walking shoes or boots, and to bring snacks, food, and a water bottle. Keep in mind that cell phone reception can be very limited in the Fiordland National Park when you go on hikes and walks.

Gertrude Saddle Route

The Gertrude Saddle route is a challenging 4 to 6-hour hike that requires a very good level of fitness and outdoor experience. Starting near the Homer tunnel en-route to Milford Sound, this hike includes steep climbs and sections where you’ll be scrambling over rocks. On a nice day, the views from the saddle are unparalleled, showcasing the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland. It’s important to note that this route should not be attempted in bad weather conditions, and hikers should check their intentions with the local Department of Conservation office in Te Anau for track updates before embarking on this hike.

Hollyford Wilderness Experience

Heli-Hiking Tour on the Kepler Track

The Kepler Track, located on the other side of Lake Te Anau, offers a full day guided walk with a local hiking operator, ‘Trips and Tramps.’ This hike begins with a short helicopter ride to the Luxmore Hut, followed by a hike up to Mount Luxmore with breathtaking Alpine views. The downhill part of this tour can be challenging for the knees, so a good level of fitness is essential for a memorable hiking experience.

For more information on multi-day hikes, please continue reading.

Step 4: Multi-Day Hikes in the Fiordland National Park

For the ultimate adventure, Fiordland’s multi-day hikes allow you to fully immerse yourself in a beautiful environment for a few days. Some of these walks can be done as a guided option or independently. If you’re going out on your own, it’s highly recommended to check with the local Department of Conservation information center in Te Anau for the latest track updates, weather forecasts, and any maintenance issues you need to know about. Independent walkers will need to bring all equipment such as backpacks, sleeping bags, food, and cooking gear, as well as quality rain gear, hiking boots, layers of clothing, and spare food and clothing needs to be taken.

Milford Track

The Milford Track, known as the finest walk in the world, takes you through stunning valleys, over Alpine passes, and past magnificent waterfalls. This 53.5 km, 4-day journey ends at the iconic Milford Sound and is considered a moderate to difficult hike. The downhill path from Mackinnon Pass is hard on the knees, and it’s often booked out far in advance, so quick booking is essential. The Milford Track can be done as a guided walk with private huts, meals, and luggage transfers, or independently where huts will need to be pre-booked, and you need to bring your sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and carry your food in your backpack.

Routeman Track

Traversing 32 km in 2 or 3 days, the Routeman Track connects to Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Park. It is regarded as a moderately difficult hike and is perfect for those looking to experience a range of environments in just one track. This track can be done either as a guided walk with private huts, meals, and luggage, or independently where you need to carry all your equipment and food as previously mentioned.

Kepler Track

This 60 km loop track can be done in 3 to 4 days and offers spectacular views of lakes, mountains, and tussock-covered ridgelines. The Kepler track can only be done independently, so huts will need to be pre-booked, and your sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and food need to be carried in your backpack. It’s important to be prepared for fast-changing weather conditions with multi-layer quality clothing.

Virtual Journeys New Zealand – YouTube

For more information on multi-day hikes, please continue reading.

Step 5: Hiking the Milford Track

Considered the finest walk in the world, the Milford Track offers a 53.5 km, 4-day journey through stunning valleys, Alpine passes, and magnificent waterfalls. It is regarded as a moderate to difficult hike, often booked out in advance. This track can be done as a guided walk with private huts, meals, and luggage transfers or independently where huts will need to be pre-booked, and you need to bring your sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and carry your food in your backpack.

Explore Fiordland with us – Trips & Tramps

Step 6: Hiking the Routeburn Track

Traversing 32 km in 2 or 3 days, the Routeburn Track connects Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Park. It is regarded as a moderately difficult hike and is perfect for experiencing a range of environments in just one track. This track can be done either as a guided walk with private huts, meals, and luggage or independently where you need to carry all your equipment and food.

Fiordland National Park | Hollyford Wilderness Experience

Step 7: Hiking the Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is a 60 km loop track that can be completed in 3 to 4 days, offering spectacular views of lakes, mountains, and tussock-covered ridgelines. This track can only be done independently, so huts will need to be pre-booked, and you’ll need to carry your sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and food in your backpack. It’s essential to be prepared for fast-changing weather conditions with multi-layer quality clothing, especially on the second day when you’ll be mainly walking over the bushline, exposed to wind and rain. Virtual Journeys New Zealand – YouTube

Step 8: Hiking the Hollyford Track

The Hollyford Track is nestled in the heart of the Fiordland National Park and offers an extraordinary hiking experience. This track is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the region.

Hollyford Wilderness Experience

Step 9: Hiking the Hump Ridge Track

The Hump Ridge Track is a hidden gem in the southern part of the Fiordland National Park. It offers a unique blend of rugged coastline, ancient forest, and breathtaking Alpine scenery. Recently added to the great walks collection, this 3 to 4-day track is suitable for reasonably fit walkers and provides a rewarding hiking experience. Whether you choose a guided walk with private huts, meals, and luggage transfers or opt for an independent hike, the Hump Ridge Track promises a memorable adventure.

Hump Ridge Track – Department of Conservation

Step 10: Hiking the Dusky Track

The Dusky Track is renowned as one of the most challenging hiking experiences in New Zealand, suitable only for the very fittest and experienced hikers. Located in a remote part of Fiordland, this 87 km track takes about 7 to 9 days to complete. Offering a true expedition-like experience, the Dusky Track traverses diverse landscapes and is known for its rugged terrain and demanding nature. If you’re seeking an ultimate hiking challenge, the Dusky Track is the perfect choice to test your skills and endurance.

Dusky Track – Department of Conservation Fiordland

Step 11: Hiking the Green Lakes Track

If you’re seeking a lesser-known but beautiful hike in the Fiordland region, the Green Lakes Track is a hidden gem located south of Te Anau. This approximately 11 km one-way hike typically requires 1 to 2 days to complete, making it an ideal option for experienced outdoor hikers looking for a moderate challenge. However, it’s important to note that good navigation skills are essential as some parts of the track route may not be clearly marked. Due to its less-known status, the Green Lakes Track offers a more secluded and serene hiking experience amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Key Recommendations for Hiking the Green Lakes Track

• Plan for 1 to 2 days to complete the approximately 11 km one-way hike
• Ensure a moderate fitness level and good navigation skills
• Take appropriate hiking gear and a rain jacket
• Wear comfortable footwear with ankle support
• Inform the Department of Conservation about your hiking intentions
• Carry high-protein hiking mix and energy-rich foods for sustenance

Step 12: Key Travel Tips for Hiking in Fiordland

When embarking on hikes and walks in the Fiordland National Park, it’s essential to consider some key travel tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience amidst the stunning natural surroundings. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack essential items to support your hiking adventure.

Best Time to Hike and Walk in Fiordland

The optimal time for hiking and walking in the Fiordland region is typically between September and May. During the winter season from June to August, many tracks may be closed due to snow and challenging weather conditions.

Informing Authorities and Safety Measures

For full-day and multi-day hikes, especially into remote areas, it’s crucial to inform the Department of Conservation information center about your hiking intentions. Leave your contact details and report back after completing your hiking experience to ensure safety and accountability.

Packing Essential Foods and Gear

Always carry more food than you think you’ll need, including high-protein hiking mix, nuts, raisins, chocolates, fruits, and other high-energy foods such as freeze-dried meals to ensure sustenance during your hike. Additionally, ensure you have appropriate mountain hiking gear and a rain jacket for full-day or overnight hikes.

By following these key travel tips, you can make the most of your hiking adventures in the breathtaking Fiordland National Park while prioritizing safety and preparation.