Driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound
Self drive to Milford Sound
Milford Sound sits deep within Fiordland National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site in the remote southwest corner of New Zealand’s South Island. With only one road in and out, every journey to Milford Sound travels through the lakeside township of Te Anau. The self-drive option allows you to stop as often as you want along the way.
Whether you're setting off from Te Anau, driving from Queenstown for the day, or arriving from elsewhere, the true journey begins the moment you leave Te Anau behind. Rolling farmland soon gives way to ancient forest, towering mountains rise dramatically from the valley floor, and moss creeps over the roadside like nature reclaiming its territory. The shift in landscape is both sudden and breathtaking.
Although the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound takes around two hours without stops, we highly recommend taking much longer. This isn’t a road to rush - it’s one to experience.
For many, the road to Milford Sound (State Highway 94) is a full-day adventure. As it weaves through Fiordland’s glacier-carved valleys and alpine passes, you’ll discover hidden lakes, thundering rivers, and countless places to pause and explore. Whether it’s a short walk to stretch your legs or a longer hike into the wilderness, this spectacular route offers something for every kind of adventurer.
Milford Road Status
Scenic flights
For those short on time or looking for a truly unforgettable experience, flying in and out of Milford Sound is a spectacular alternative to driving. Scenic flights operate from Queenstown and Te Anau, offering breathtaking aerial views of Fiordland’s dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and glacier-carved valleys. It’s not just a mode of transport - it’s an experience in itself. Landing in Milford Sound by plane gives you a unique perspective of the landscape few get to see, and with round-trip flights available, you can explore the fiord by cruise or kayak and be back in time for dinner. Ideal for day-trippers or anyone keen to skip the long drive, a scenic flight is the fastest and most awe-inspiring way to arrive in Milford Sound. Contact us for helicopter or fixed wing plan flights in and out of Milford Sound.
Milford Sound Coach
The road to Milford Sound from Queenstown offers the very best scenery the South Island has to offer, which is why some people prefer to look at the scenery instead of the road. Most Milford Sound cruise operators offer packages that include coach transfers from Te Anau or Queenstown. A great way to make the journey in comfort and without any hassles. And if you're feeling uncertain about tackling the Milford Road—especially during winter—taking a coach is a safe, stress-free alternative. Expert drivers handle the alpine conditions with ease, so you can sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery without worrying about icy roads, snow chains, or narrow mountain passes. Coaches depart daily from both Queenstown and Te Anau, often including commentary, photo stops, and guaranteed connections with cruises in Milford Sound. It’s a great option for those wanting to enjoy the journey without the responsibility of driving, particularly during the colder months when road conditions can be unpredictable.
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Things to do along the Milford Road
The journey to Milford Sound is packed with incredible sights, short walks, and photo-worthy moments. For hikers, the Milford Road is also the gateway to iconic tracks like the Routeburn and the Hollyford. For photographers, every bend reveals a new perspective - misty valleys, alpine rivers, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you're after a gentle stroll or an epic trail, you'll find plenty to explore along the way. Discover the best walks on the Milford Road here.
Generous driving times to make sure you miss nothing!
Te Anau Downs
Distance from Te Anau: 30 min (30 km)
Why stop: Gateway to the Milford Track and a peaceful spot to admire Lake Te Anau.
Good for: Photos, bathroom break, and boat access for track walkers.
Mirror Lakes
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr (56 km)
Walk time: 10-minute return
Why stop: A short boardwalk leads to crystal-clear reflections of the Earl Mountains -one of the most photographed spots on the road.
Accessibility: Flat and wheelchair-friendly.
Knobs Flat
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr (65 km)
Why stop: Facilities including toilets, interpretation shelter, and avalanche information board.
Also a good spot to: Check road conditions in winter.
Lake Gunn Nature Walk
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr 15 min (75 km)
Walk time: 45-minute loop
Why stop: Easy loop through magical red beech forest beside Lake Gunn. Peaceful, often uncrowded.
Great for: Families, birdwatching, and a dose of forest calm.
The Divide / Key Summit
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr 30 min (85 km)
Walk time: 3 hours return
Why stop: This alpine hike climbs to panoramic 360° views across Fiordland’s mountains and valleys.
Track type: Well-maintained Great Walk standard (start of Routeburn Track).
Pop’s View Lookout
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr 40 min (90 km)
Why stop: Stunning roadside viewpoint overlooking Hollyford Valley - especially good in morning light.
Monkey Creek
Distance from Te Anau: 1 hr 50 min (95 km)
Why stop: Fill your water bottle with pure glacier-fed spring water, and possibly spot kea nearby.
Watch for: Snowy peaks, cheeky alpine parrots, and icy wind even in summer!
Homer Tunnel
Distance from Te Anau: 2 hr (98 km)
Why stop: Not a stop in itself, but you’ll likely pause at the lights. Look up - this engineering marvel cuts through sheer rock, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
The Chasm
Distance from Te Anau: 2 hr 15 min (108 km)
Walk time: 20-minute return
Why stop: A short forest walk leads to powerful waterfalls and sculpted rock formations created by thousands of years of water erosion.
Track status: Check before visiting - subject to occasional closure due to slips or damage.
Tutoko River Lookout
Distance from Te Anau: 2 hr 20 min (110 km)
Why stop: A quick pull-off to view the thundering Tutoko River and glacier-capped peaks.
