The Milford Road
If you are making your own way to Milford Sound, allow plenty of time to enjoy the trip and check the road conditions before you go. The drive along the Milford Road is an experience in itself, with numerous short walks and photo opportunities along the way.
Drive Times
Queenstown to Milford Sound
Queenstown is located 288km from Milford Sound. Allow up to 5 hours during winter if you want to enjoy the many photo opportunities and scenic views throughout the trip.
Queenstown to Te Anau
Queenstown is located 172km from Te Anau, approx. 2 hours 15-minute drive. The road follows the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu before heading through Southland pastures via Mossburn.
Te Anau to Milford Sound
The 120km journey to Milford Sound is on a fully sealed road. Allow a minimum of 2 hours for the trip, and even longer if you want to take advantage of the magnificent photo stops and short walks along the way.
Stops on the Milford Road
1. Mirror Lakes
A boardwalk that leads through an attractive beech forest and wetlands with pools reflecting the Earl Mountains above.
2. Knobs Flat
So named for the hummocks left behind by the retreating glaciers. There is also a campsite, toilets and a phone available here.
3. Eglinton Valley
A winding river valley often filled with windblown tussock edging to luxuriant beech forest.
4. Monkey Creek
This stop provides great views of the upper Hollyford Valley.
5. The Chasm
An easy short walk along a concrete and decked track that runs through a moss covered forest. View down a 22m deep ravine where the Cleddau River has cut through the rock, carving out fascinating formations.
Important Notes
The Milford Road (State Highway 94) is located in Fiordland National Park. There is no cell phone coverage or petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound, so motorists are advised to fill up before their trip.
In this alpine environment, the road can be affected by weather. For an up to date road conditions report visit: www.milfordroad.co.nz
All vehicles on the Milford Road are required by law to carry snow chains over the winter months.
Click here for Milford Sound day trips, including coach and flight options.