Lake Mistletoe Track
A quick, scenic stop on the road to Milford Sound, featuring a short loop through native bush and a lovely lake viewpoint.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best foliage views
Lake Mistletoe Track
Best Time
Best foliage views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quick, scenic stop on the road to Milford Sound, featuring a short loop through native bush and a lovely lake viewpoint.
"Nice little lake and rejuvenating native bush. Good 30 minute time killer on the drive from Te Anau to Milford. "
🚗 Easy Access Stop
Perfect 30-min time killer on the way to Milford Sound. :car:
🥾 Forest & Lake Views
Mostly forest walk with a short section by the lake and a viewpoint. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Mistletoe Viewpoint
Mid-track lookout
A scenic spot offering a lovely view of the lake, perfect for a brief rest and photo opportunity.
Native Bush Walk
The loop track
Wander through rejuvenating native bush, a refreshing natural escape on your journey.
Short & Sweet Loop
The entire track
A quick 30-minute loop that's easy to complete, making it an ideal stop between Te Anau and Milford Sound.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Quick Stop, Big Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access Stop
Perfect 30-min time killer on the way to Milford Sound. :car:
🥾 Forest & Lake Views
Mostly forest walk with a short section by the lake and a viewpoint. :hiking_boot:
🅿️ Ample Parking
There's a big parking area, but no toilet facilities available. :parking:
🚶♀️ Short & Flat Track
The short track is flat and takes about 10 minutes one way to the viewpoint. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access Stop
Perfect 30-min time killer on the way to Milford Sound. :car:
🥾 Forest & Lake Views
Mostly forest walk with a short section by the lake and a viewpoint. :hiking_boot:
🅿️ Ample Parking
There's a big parking area, but no toilet facilities available. :parking:
🚶♀️ Short & Flat Track
The short track is flat and takes about 10 minutes one way to the viewpoint. :walking:
⚠️ Highway Sidewalk
Last 400m back to car park is on highway sidewalk, feels safe. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Lake Mistletoe Track to be a pleasant, short stop on the way to Milford Sound, appreciated for its easy walk through native bush and scenic viewpoint. While some find it underwhelming due to limited lake access, others value it as a convenient and rejuvenating break. +1
"Easy walk to the view point, the short track is flat and about half the time is through the forest. At the view point, there's a picnic table to rest and enjoy the view. Unfortunately, can't get close to the lake, making the experience really underwhelming, especially after coming back from Milford Sound. We did not do the loop track, so, the walk only takes us about 10 minutes one way. Big parking, no toilet facility."
Jo Lee
"A short loop track on the way to/from Milford Sound. It takes about 30 mins and there's a lookout with the lake view. You're mostly walking in the forest with just a short section that is by the lake. The last 400 meters or so of the loop back to the car park are on the highway but there's a wide enough sidewalk that it feels pretty safe."
Daphne
"Nice little lake and rejuvenating native bush. Good 30 minute time killer on the drive from Te Anau to Milford."
M N Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Mistletoe Track is conveniently located on the road between Te Anau and Milford Sound. It's a popular stop for travelers heading to or from Milford Sound, offering a quick break from driving. +1
Yes, it's a well-marked stop along the main route. Look for the signs for Lake Mistletoe Track as you drive.
The track is easily accessible from the large parking area provided. It's designed for a quick stop, so access is straightforward.
While primarily accessed by private vehicle, tour buses often stop here as part of the journey to Milford Sound. Check with your tour operator if it's a scheduled stop.
Yes, there is a big parking area available for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lake Mistletoe Track is a free natural attraction. There are no entry fees required to access the track or viewpoint.
The track is open year-round and accessible at any time. It's a natural area, so there are no set opening or closing hours.
There is no admission fee for the viewpoint or the track itself. It's a public access area.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety and visibility. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
No booking is required. You can simply stop by as part of your drive.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The loop track typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. Some visitors report doing just the walk to the viewpoint and back in about 10-20 minutes. +1
The track is generally flat and easy to walk. It's mostly through native bush with a short section by the lake.
Unfortunately, you cannot get close to the lake to swim. The experience is more about the views from the designated viewpoint.
No, there are no toilet facilities available at the track. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your visit.
Yes, the track is short, flat, and easy, making it suitable for children.
📸 📸 Photography
The main photo opportunity is the viewpoint overlooking the lake. The native bush also offers lovely shots, especially during autumn.
Mid-day generally offers good light, but early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and potentially fewer crowds.
No, you cannot get close to the lake itself for photos. The viewpoint provides the primary perspective.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the landscape.
No, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Since there are no toilet facilities, ensure kids use the restroom before you stop. The parking area is spacious, making it easy to maneuver with a car.
🚗 Day-Trippers to Milford Sound
Recommendation: Factor in about 30 minutes for this stop. It’s a perfect opportunity to grab a quick snack or drink and enjoy the Fiordland landscape before continuing your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lake Mistletoe Experience
While the walk is easy and flat, some visitors note that you can't get particularly close to the lake itself, which can make the experience feel a bit underwhelming for those expecting a more immersive lakeside encounter. However, the viewpoint does provide a lovely perspective, and the surrounding native flora offers a refreshing natural interlude.
Key takeaway: It's a worthwhile, short stop for its accessibility and natural beauty, especially if you're looking for a quick leg-stretch on a longer drive. Don't expect an extensive lake experience, but appreciate the peaceful bush walk and the scenic overlook.
Best Seasons for a Visit
During early spring, the bushes and trees might appear a bit sparse, which some visitors found less appealing. However, as spring progresses into summer and then autumn, the native bush becomes more vibrant and lush, offering a richer visual experience. Autumn, in particular, can bring beautiful colors to the foliage, enhancing the scenic beauty of the track and its surroundings.
Consider this: If you're aiming for the most visually rewarding experience, plan your visit for the warmer months when the vegetation is at its peak. This will maximize your enjoyment of the native bush and the lake views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit