Milford Road

Milford Road (SH94) is one of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine drives, winding 120 km from Te Anau to Milford Sound through Fiordland National Park. This epic journey takes you past mirror-like lakes, sheer granite cliffs, and lush rainforest, with countless photo stops and short walks along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Mirror Lakes: Early on the drive, these small, still lakes perfectly reflect the Earl Mountains – stop for a classic photo.
• Homer Tunnel: A 1.2 km single-lane tunnel blasted through solid rock; be prepared for short waits and a dramatic descent into the Cleddau Valley.
• The Chasm: A short walk leads to a powerful waterfall and deep rock pools carved by the Cleddau River.
• Lake Gunn Nature Walk: An easy 45-minute loop through red beech forest with views of crystal-clear Lake Gunn.
• Monkey Creek: A popular spot to see kea (alpine parrots) and taste pure mountain water.
• Milford Sound: The grand finale – cruise past waterfalls, seals, and towering peaks like Mitre Peak.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day for the round trip from Te Anau (about 5 hours driving plus stops). Start early to avoid crowds and maximize daylight. If you're based in Queenstown, it's a long but doable day trip (5 hours each way). For a more relaxed pace, stay overnight in Milford Sound or Te Anau.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Te Anau: The gateway town with Lake Te Anau, glowworm caves, and the Kepler Track.
• Fiordland National Park: Explore other fiords like Doubtful Sound or hike the Routeburn and Milford Tracks.
• Queenstown: A 2-hour drive from Te Anau, offering adventure sports, wineries, and lake views.
• Gore & The Catlins: Head south for wildlife, waterfalls, and the southern scenic coast.

Please check official sources for current details.