Lake Marian Track
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Fiordland National Park leading to a stunning alpine lake with dramatic mountain backdrops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best light, fewer crowds
Lake Marian Track
Best Time
Best light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Fiordland National Park leading to a stunning alpine lake with dramatic mountain backdrops.
"The hike to Lake Marian is absolutely worth the effort for its unparalleled beauty!"
Wear sturdy footwear
The track can be muddy and steep. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Allow ample time
The hike is about 3 hours return, plus time to enjoy the lake. Don't rush it! :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marian Falls
Start of the track
A beautiful waterfall accessible early in the hike, a perfect spot for a quick photo op.
Lake Marian
End of the track
A stunning alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Fiordland National Park Scenery
En route to the track
The drive to the trailhead itself is spectacular, winding through the heart of Fiordland National Park.
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy footwear
The track can be muddy and steep. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Allow ample time
The hike is about 3 hours return, plus time to enjoy the lake. Don't rush it! :stopwatch:
Check weather & conditions
Conditions change fast in Fiordland. Be prepared for rain and check DOC advisories. :cloud_rain:
Go beyond the falls
Many stop at Marian Falls. Push on to Lake Marian for solitude and incredible views. :mountain:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy footwear
The track can be muddy and steep. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Allow ample time
The hike is about 3 hours return, plus time to enjoy the lake. Don't rush it! :stopwatch:
Check weather & conditions
Conditions change fast in Fiordland. Be prepared for rain and check DOC advisories. :cloud_rain:
Go beyond the falls
Many stop at Marian Falls. Push on to Lake Marian for solitude and incredible views. :mountain:
Pack snacks & water
There are no facilities on the track. Bring plenty of water and some energy-boosting snacks. :apple:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Lake Marian, calling it one of New Zealand's most spectacular hikes. The challenging trek through Fiordland's wilderness is rewarded with stunning alpine views. Some find the initial part to Marian Falls sufficient, while others highly recommend pushing on to the lake for a truly unforgettable experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lake Marian Track starts from a carpark on Hollyford Road, which is just off the Milford Road. It's about a 40-minute drive from Milford Sound and is a popular stop for those driving to or from the sound. 
Absolutely! The drive through Fiordland National Park to the trailhead is incredibly scenic, with stunning mountain vistas and lush rainforests. Many consider the journey as much a part of the experience as the hike itself. +1
Yes, you can access Lake Marian from Te Anau. Guided tours often depart from Te Anau and include return transport to the trailhead. The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound, where the track is located, takes approximately 2 hours.
Yes, there is a dedicated carpark at the start of the Lake Marian Track. However, it can get busy, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
The Hollyford Road is a gravel road, but it's generally well-maintained. Be mindful of other vehicles, including tour buses and campervans, as you navigate the route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lake Marian Track is part of Fiordland National Park and is free to access. There are no entrance fees or tickets required for the hike itself.
The track is open year-round, but conditions can be challenging in winter. DOC advises against walking around the lake edge during the snow/avalanche season (winter and spring). Always check current conditions before you go.
There is no booking system for the Lake Marian Track as it is a public hiking trail. However, if you opt for a guided tour, you will need to book that in advance.
The track itself is free. Any costs would be related to your transportation to the trailhead or if you choose to join a guided tour, which often includes transport and a picnic lunch.
While technically accessible, winter visits require caution. DOC warns against walking around the lake edge due to avalanche risk. The track can also be muddy and icy.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The return hike to Lake Marian typically takes around 3 hours of walking. Many visitors also spend an hour or more enjoying the lake and its surroundings.
The track is generally considered moderate to hard. The initial part to Marian Falls is easier, but the trail to Lake Marian involves steep sections and can be challenging.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential due to potential mud and slippery sections. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is a must.
There are no toilets along the Lake Marian Track itself. You'll need to use facilities at the Milford Sound visitor centre or other designated spots before or after your hike.
Yes, some brave souls do swim in Lake Marian, often as part of a Wim Hof method session. Be warned, the water is extremely cold, even in summer!
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots include Marian Falls early on, and of course, the breathtaking views of Lake Marian itself with its surrounding peaks. The forest sections also offer beautiful, moody shots.
Early mornings can offer soft light and fewer people. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light. However, Fiordland's weather is unpredictable, so any time can offer dramatic, moody shots.
While the initial part to Marian Falls can be busy, many visitors don't continue to Lake Marian. If you hike further, you're likely to find solitude and opportunities for crowd-free photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance the sky. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New Zealand National Parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) guidelines for Fiordland National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the trail beyond the falls becomes steeper and more challenging, which might be too difficult for very young children or those who are not accustomed to hiking. It's advisable to assess your children's stamina and hiking experience before proceeding past the falls. If you do decide to continue, ensure everyone has sturdy footwear and is prepared for potentially muddy conditions. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is essential, as there are no facilities along the track. Consider it a great opportunity to teach kids about nature, conservation, and the importance of respecting the environment in a stunning natural setting.
⛰️ Adventure Seekers
This adds an extreme element to the experience, appealing to those looking for a unique challenge. Beyond the standard hike, the surrounding Fiordland National Park offers numerous other opportunities for exploration, including multi-day treks and kayaking. Lake Marian serves as a fantastic day-trip adventure that can be combined with other activities in the region, such as exploring Milford Sound or tackling other nearby trails.
📸 Photographers
+1To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the golden hour for soft, warm light, or embrace the dramatic weather for moody, epic landscapes. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the grandeur of the mountains and lake. Remember to pack your gear in a waterproof bag as rain is common. The challenge of reaching the lake often means fewer crowds, increasing your chances of getting those iconic, unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike Itself: From Falls to Fjords
As you climb, the forest gradually thins, revealing glimpses of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. The final push can be challenging, but the payoff is immense. You'll emerge to the breathtaking sight of Lake Marian, an alpine tarn nestled beneath towering, often snow-dusted peaks. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror, creating a truly otherworldly atmosphere.
+1Many visitors find the experience of reaching Lake Marian incredibly rewarding, describing it as one of the most spectacular hikes in New Zealand. The sense of accomplishment, combined with the sheer beauty of the location, makes the effort entirely worthwhile.
+1Navigating Fiordland's Unpredictable Weather
DOC (Department of Conservation) also advises caution during certain times of the year. Specifically, they warn against walking around the lake edge during the snow and avalanche season, which typically spans winter and spring. This is a critical safety advisory that should not be ignored. Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly, so always err on the side of caution.
Being prepared means packing appropriate gear. Waterproof hiking boots are a must, as are waterproof outer layers. Bringing extra warm clothing, even in summer, is a wise precaution. The unpredictable nature of Fiordland's weather adds to its wild charm, but it also demands respect and thorough preparation from visitors.
+1The Drive to Milford Sound: A Journey in Itself
Key stops along the Milford Road include the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and various viewpoints offering stunning vistas. The road itself is an engineering marvel, carved through challenging terrain. Many visitors treat the drive as an adventure, stopping frequently to take in the sights and capture photographs.
Since Lake Marian Track is located on the Milford Road, it's an ideal stop for those heading to or from Milford Sound. It offers a chance to stretch your legs and experience a different facet of Fiordland's natural beauty, away from the main cruise crowds.
+1
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