Itinerary
Day 0 – Your equipment and food can be collected from a central point in Te Anau or can be dropped off at your accommodation in Te Anau (additional cost applies)
Day 1 – Glade Wharf to Clinton Hut
(Approx. 1.5 hours/5km)
Travel by bus from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs (or we can arrange to have your own vehicle relocated if you wish to self drive) and then connect with your water taxi for a cruise up Lake Te Anau to Glade Wharf, start of the Milford Track. From the landing a leisurely 1½ hour walk takes you through attractive beech forest along the banks of the beautiful Clinton River to Clinton Hut where you will spend the night.
Day 2 – Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut
(Approx. 6 hours/16.5km)
Today your Milford track walk follows the stunning Clinton River to reach Mintaro Hut. It’s a gradual climb from Clinton Hut as the track follows the Clinton River to its source, Lake Mintaro, at the base of Mackinnon Pass. Mintaro Hut is situated at the base of the Mackinnon Pass and en route you can see your first glimpse of the Pass and the Pompolona ice field.
Day 3 – Mintaro Hut to Dumpling Hut
(Approx. 6-7 hours/14km)
Hike to the top of Mackinnon Pass today – approximately 2 hours from Mintaro Hut - on a well-graded, zigzag track with stunning views of Lake Mintaro and the Clinton Valley below. The Pass Day Shelter is the highest point on the track at 1154 metres. After the descent you can take an optional side walk to Sutherland Falls, among the highest single drop falls in the world, before continuing to Dumpling Hut.
Day 4 – Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point, Milford Sound
(Approx. 6 hours/18km)
Follow the Arthur River to Lake Ada and onto the track end at Sandfly Point. From here you will meet the boat back over to the Milford Sound Visitors Centre and then take your bus transfer back to Te Anau (or ask for more details on our 'add on' Milford Sound stay and Milford Sound Cruise). If you choose the vehicle relocation option instead, your vehicle will be waiting for you in Milford Sound to self drive back to Te Anau.
Please note that accommodation is in Department of Conservation huts which are pre-booked for our guests - these are basic but comfortable and must be shared with other track walkers. Clients must carry their own pack containing clothing, sleeping bag, food and cooking equipment/eating utensils. Gas is available in the huts.
2024/2025 Departure Dates:
Bookings for this popular track are now full for the 2024/2025 season
2025/2026 Departure Dates:
Our booking system is now open for provisional bookings of this popular track for the 2025/2026 season.
