Skip to main content

Site under construction

Some information may not be accurate

Track Status

Current status of popular tracks in Fiordland National Park. Always check with the DOC Visitor Centre for the most up-to-date information.

Loading track status...

Last updated: Loading...

Official DOC Updates

Track Locations

Explore the locations of Fiordland's most popular walking tracks. Click on markers for more information.

Great Walks

Fiordland is home to three of New Zealand's ten Great Walks. These premier tracks showcase the best of New Zealand's landscapes and require advance booking.

Kepler Track - Alpine section with mountain views

Kepler Track

60 km loop
3-4 days
Moderate-Difficult

The Kepler Track takes you through stunning Fiordland landscapes including mountain ridges, native forest, and lakeshores. Starting just outside Te Anau, this purpose-built track offers spectacular alpine views and well-maintained facilities.

Highlights:

  • Panoramic views from Luxmore Hut
  • Alpine ridgelines above the bushline
  • Native forest with abundant birdlife
  • Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri shorelines

Booking required: October to April

More Info & Booking
Milford Track - Lush forest and waterfall

Milford Track

53.5 km one-way
4 days
Moderate

Often called "the finest walk in the world," the Milford Track takes you through the heart of Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. The track follows ancient glacial valleys and crosses the stunning Mackinnon Pass.

Highlights:

  • Sutherland Falls (580m) - New Zealand's tallest waterfall
  • Clinton River and Arthur Valley
  • Alpine crossing of Mackinnon Pass
  • Lush rainforest and glacier-carved valleys

Booking required: October to April (books out quickly)

More Info & Booking
Routeburn Track - Alpine lake with mountain backdrop

Routeburn Track

32 km one-way
2-3 days
Moderate

The Routeburn Track connects Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks, offering diverse landscapes from mountain peaks to beech forests. This track is known for its spectacular alpine scenery and accessibility.

Highlights:

  • Harris Saddle with views of the Darran Mountains
  • Emerald lakes and alpine gardens
  • Earland Falls (174m)
  • Diverse forest and mountain landscapes

Booking required: October to April

More Info & Booking

Short Walks

Explore Fiordland's beauty on these accessible short walks, perfect for day visitors or those with limited time.

Lake Mistletoe Track

45 min return
Easy

A gentle walk through beech forest to a small glacial lake with views of surrounding mountains. Located 27km from Te Anau on the Milford Road.

Mirror Lakes

10 min return
Very Easy

Famous for their reflections of the Earl Mountains. Wheelchair accessible boardwalk. Located 56km from Te Anau on the Milford Road.

Key Summit Track

3 hours return
Moderate

Part of the Routeburn Track with panoramic views of the Humboldt and Darran Mountains. Alpine plants and tarns. Located at The Divide, 85km from Te Anau.

Lake Marian Track

3 hours return
Moderate-Difficult

Steep climb to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by mountains. First section features a waterfall viewing platform. Located in the Hollyford Valley, 87km from Te Anau.

Milford Foreshore Walk

30 min loop
Easy

Scenic walk along the Milford Sound/Piopiotahi foreshore with classic views of Mitre Peak. Interpretive signs about the area's history and wildlife.

Lake Gunn Nature Walk

45 min loop
Easy

Peaceful loop through beech forest with lake views and abundant birdlife. Interpretive signs about forest ecology. Located 78km from Te Anau.

Chasm Walk

20 min return
Easy

Short walk to powerful waterfalls that have carved impressive rock formations. Located 109km from Te Anau, 9km before Milford Sound.

Te Anau Lakefront Walk

1-2 hours return
Very Easy

Flat, accessible walk along the shores of Lake Te Anau. Beautiful views of the lake and mountains. Starts from the Te Anau town center.

Tramping in Fiordland

Fiordland's wilderness requires proper preparation. Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Essential Gear

  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Warm layers (merino or synthetic)
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Hat and gloves
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • First aid kit
  • Map and compass/GPS
  • Headlamp/torch
  • Emergency shelter
  • Personal locator beacon (recommended)

Weather Preparedness

  • Check forecasts before departing
  • Be prepared for sudden weather changes
  • Expect rain at any time of year
  • Snow possible on alpine sections year-round
  • Strong winds common on exposed ridges
  • Allow extra days for weather delays
  • Know when to turn back if conditions deteriorate

Sandfly Protection

  • Use insect repellent with DEET
  • Wear long sleeves and pants
  • Avoid dark-colored clothing
  • Set up camp in breezy areas
  • Keep tent doors closed
  • Be especially vigilant near water
  • Dawn and dusk are peak sandfly times

Leave No Trace

  • Pack out all rubbish
  • Stay on marked tracks
  • Use toilets where provided
  • Bury human waste away from water sources
  • Don't disturb wildlife
  • Clean boots between tracks (prevents spread of disease)
  • Leave natural and cultural items undisturbed