Lake Marian Fiordland: hiking guide & photography

New Zealand is famous for its wild beauty, and deep within the heart of the South Island lies one of the country's national icons - Lake Marian.

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Lake Marian – What is it?

The most pristine, beautiful, and accessible glacial-filled lake awaits. Deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park, you will find Lake Marian. A spot longed for by many and highly sought after for the perfect Instagram shot. Lake Marian is accessible for all who love to hike. Wind through the famous Fiordland rainforest past waterfalls, trees, and the singing birdlife before emerging to a beautiful lake in a hanging valley.

Where is it?

You will find the trailhead along the iconic Milford Road and down the Hollyford turn-off. Here you can park and start the hike. Crossing a suspension bridge almost immediately and winding up a wooden boardwalk into the forest gives a taste of how awesome this track is. Allow yourself three to four hours to safely return to your car. Bring snacks, plenty of water, good shoes and a jacket.

Why you should go

Lake Marian is a beautiful turquoise lake sitting under a mountain, surrounded by mountains, forest, and waterfalls, need we say more? It truly is extraordinary. On a clear day, you will see the clearest reflection, so clear it is mirror-like.

The view from the edge of the lake is unreal and you should take the time to soak in all of nature’s goodness so be sure to pack your snacks and plan to have your lunch at the top.

Lake Marian is one of the South Island's hidden gems. Whatever the weather and the season you will not regret the hike up to this lake.

Popular things to see along the Milford Road

Lake Marian is located on the Milford Road in Fiordland National Park and this particular road is a destination in itself. Prepare to have your socks well and truly blown off at the scenes that unfold before you. With roadside stops, short hikes, lookout points, and the chance to see a cheeky Kea Bird, you will need to schedule some time in your itinerary to explore the wonders on this road.

Lake Gunn

Experience wild Fiordland on a short bushwalk through red beech forest, spot some native birds, and take a breather at this beautiful lake hidden in the trees.

Monkey Creek

A popular hangout for the world’s only alpine parrot, the Kea, and a place to fill up your water bottles from a fresh glacially fed stream right next to the road. Pull up here, switch off the engine and be sure to clear your memory cards as this is one of the most picturesque spots on this adventure.

Homer Tunnel

Did you know it took 19 years to build this 1.2km long tunnel that allows road access to Milford Sound? The Tunnel reveals Jurrasic Park-like views as it descends through the Cleddau Valley. There is a safe place to park your car so you can grab the iconic Milford Road shot. Both the tunnel and saddle are named after William Henry Homer, who discovered the saddle along with George Barber in 1889 while on a surveying expedition.

Milford Sound

The jewel in Fiorldand’s crown is Milford Sound. It is the only fiord that is accessible by road and those postcard-perfect views are worth the drive. Take a short walk on the boardwalk, hunt for the secret Milford Swing or jump on a cruise to explore this incredible place. Milford Sound should be at the top of your South Island bucket list, trust us. It is one hundred percent worth the hype.

Epic Adventures

Did you know that Fiordland is home to three of New Zealand’s great walks? You can hike on the Kepler Track, Milford Track, and Routeburn Track in this one National Park. If you fancy a day hike, check out Fiordland Outdoors Co for quick transport options. Fiordland is vast, spanning a huge 1.2 million hectares so there is certainly an adventure or two to be had here. The gateway town to Fiordland is Te Anau. A quaint little town situated on the edge of New Zealand's second-largest lake also homes the only floatplane on the South Island. Wings and water can transport you to some of the most incredible places including Dusky and Doubtful Sound for an epic day in the air, landing on the ocean, and exploring hidden beaches and coves.

Campgrounds and where to stay

No adventure to Fiordland or Milford Sound is complete without an overnight stay at these campgrounds. You ask for 5-star accommodation, we deliver one million star campsites in areas that have zero light pollution!

Milford Sound Lodge

The Rainforest campervan park at the Milford Sound Lodge is one of New Zealand's best campsites. Pull up under the canopy of trees and know that you are the only people staying that close to the shores of Milford Sound for the evening. Walking distance to the foreshore and iconic views of Mitre peak plus hot showers and an awesome indoor facility, it is no surprise that this place books out quick.

Prices start at $25pp Powered sites Cooking, laundry, and communal facilities are available

Cascade Creek campsite

One of the only DOC campsites on the Milford Road, Cascade Creek Campsite is close to the Eglinton and Cascade river. The Lake Gunn Nature Walk is also close by. This is for self-contained vehicles only.

Prices start at $15 per night Bookings are required 120 non-powered/tent sites available

Henry Creek Campsite

Before you enter the Milford Road you will find This is a scenic campsite. Camp on the shores of the picturesque Lake Te Anau on the road to Milford Sound. This campsite is perfect for campervans and caravans. This campsite is the closest DOC campsite to Te Anau on the popular scenic drive to Milford Sound

Prices start at $15 per night Bookings are required 120 non-powered/tent sites available

Ready to get started?

Fiordland National Park is a mecca of incredible adventures and beauty. It sits high on every South Island bucket list and we hope to see you exploring here soon!

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Want some more travel inspo? Check out some more lake camping grounds in NZ!