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12 must do stops on the road to Milford Sound

The road to Milford Sound is spectacular and for those self-driving on a more leisurely itinerary, you may wish to experience the following stops and short walks.


1. Te Anau Downs
This sheltered harbour is the departure point for Milford Track walkers.

2. Mirror Lakes
Small tarns situated roadside, famous for their mountain reflections in calm weather.


3. Knobs Flat

Provides visitor amenities including interpretation displays, toilets, campervan sewage disposal and telephone (card only).


4. Lake Gunn Nature Walk
This loop track starts at the Cascade Creek carpark and takes you through red beech forest to the shores of Lake Gunn. On the way a variety of mosses and native birds can usually be seen (45mins return).
Wheelchair accessible.


5. The Divide

This is the lowest east-west pass in the Southern Alps (531m) and it marks the start of the Routeburn, Caples and Greenstone Tracks. Shelter and toilets are provided.


6. Key Summit

This walk from The Divide initially follows the Routeburn Track. It takes you through native forest, then over open ground with alpine tarns, shrubland and bogs. The Key Summit viewpoint provides spectacular views of the Hollyford, Greenstone and Eglinton Valleys (3hrs return).


7. Lower Hollyford Road

The Hollyford Road turn-off leads to the Lake Marion Walking Track, Gunns Camp, Humbolt Waterfall and Hollyford Track.


8. Gunns Camp
Cabin accommodation and campervan sites are available at Gunns Camp. The early settlers museum is well worth a visit.


9. Hollyford Valley Lookout (Pops View)

Provides spectacular roadside views over the Hollyford Valley.


10. Monkey Creek
A good place to stop for the chance to see Kea and the Whio / Blue Duck, or fill your water bottle from this pristine creek.


11. Homer Tunnel
This 1219m long unlined road tunnel (two way traffic) slopes down toward the Milford side with a gradient of 1 in 10.


12. The Chasm

An impressive rock chasm formed by the rushing waters of the Cleddau River. The loop forest walk offers views of waterfalls and sculptured rock formations (20mins return). Please stay behind safety barriers.


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