Giant Gate Falls
A stunning waterfall on the Milford Track, accessible via a scenic day hike from Milford Sound. Experience Fiordland's magic without the multi-day tre...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Giant Gate Falls
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall on the Milford Track, accessible via a scenic day hike from Milford Sound. Experience Fiordland's magic without the multi-day trek.
"Experience a slice of the Milford Track's magic at Giant Gate Falls, a stunning waterfall accessible for day hikers. 
🎯 Water Taxi to Sandfly Point
Catch a water taxi from Milford Sound to Sandfly Point for the start of your day hike.
🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots
Trails can be wet and rocky; waterproof footwear is essential to keep your feet dry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Gate Falls
Milford Track, near Sandfly Point
A spectacular 30-meter-high waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip or a scenic lunch stop.
Milford Track Day Walk
Milford Sound to Sandfly Point
Experience a taste of one of the world's most renowned hikes without the multi-day commitment.
Fiordland National Park Scenery
Fiordland National Park
Immerse yourself in the dramatic fjords, misty peaks, and lush rainforests of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Giant Gate Falls
Best Footwear and Weather Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Water Taxi to Sandfly Point
Catch a water taxi from Milford Sound to Sandfly Point for the start of your day hike.
🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots
Trails can be wet and rocky; waterproof footwear is essential to keep your feet dry.
🥪 Pack a Lunch (and Guard It!)
Enjoy a picnic by the falls, but watch out for cheeky weka birds who love to steal food!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
There's a bridge near the falls that offers a fantastic vantage point for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Water Taxi to Sandfly Point
Catch a water taxi from Milford Sound to Sandfly Point for the start of your day hike.
🥾 Wear Waterproof Boots
Trails can be wet and rocky; waterproof footwear is essential to keep your feet dry.
🥪 Pack a Lunch (and Guard It!)
Enjoy a picnic by the falls, but watch out for cheeky weka birds who love to steal food!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
There's a bridge near the falls that offers a fantastic vantage point for photos.
🏊 Brave the Icy Dip
If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the clear, albeit very cold, water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Giant Gate Falls as an accessible and stunning part of the Milford Track, perfect for day hikers. The impressive waterfall and the immersive rainforest experience are major draws, though the icy water and potential for wet conditions are noted.
"iant Gate Falls is an impressive waterfall located near the end of the Milford Track, normally experienced on day four of this world famous multi-day hike.
But did you know you can see Giant Gate Falls as a day walk from Milford Sound? Yep, that’s right! You can experience a Milford Track day walk, one of the greatest walks in the world.
The day walk to Giant Gate Falls is a great way to get a taste of the Milford Track without the four-day commitment. A multi-day hike, carrying gear and staying in backcountry huts isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying the Milford Track is a pretty spectacular place to see.
Or, perhaps you are keen on doing the full Milford Track hike and missed out on securing a booking for the season. I can relate.
Being one of the most popular New Zealand Great Walks and a top New Zealand attraction with a limited number of bookings available, it can be incredibly difficult to get a spot. And, as the most expensive Great Walk in New Zealand, it may not be within everyone’s budget.
While not exactly the same experience as completing the full 53.5 km track, the day walk provides a chance to experience a portion of the Milford Track for a lot less time and money. You’ll arrive at Giant Gate Falls with fresh feet and plenty of energy to take it all in
The Milford Track day walk is ideal for anyone visiting Milford Sound for the day or staying overnight and wanting to experience Fiordland’s wild and beautiful landscapes on this coveted track.
Although the Milford Track is world famous, this day walk option isn’t as well known. I’m sharing all the details in this guide based on our own experience, so you too, can see Giant Gate Falls and experience a small slice of the Milford Track during your next visit to Fiordland.. Giant Gate Falls is a spectacular 30-meter-high (98-foot) waterfall on the Milford Track, about a 1.5 hour-walk from Sandfly Point and the end of the track.
Considering I live in New Zealand and have years of experience exploring this beautiful country under my belt, it came as a surprise that I hadn’t heard of Giant Gate Falls until recently. How could that be! And, what a pleasant surprise!
It was while planning our itinerary for a recent trip to Milford Sound with a friend of mine that she mentioned she’d like to go to Giant Gate Falls. Having done the full Milford Track previously, she made it to Giant Gate Falls after four exhausting days of walking but didn’t manage to get a decent photo of it at the time."
Rotem NZ Adventures
"Beautiful waterfall about 5km in from the north end of the Milford Track. Great spot to have lunch and a dip if you are keen. Watch out for the cheeky weka’s. They like to pinch your lunch when you are not looking 🙂."
Ian Baines
"Caught the water taxi from Milford Sound walk up the track to the Waterfall. Did a 11km return hike."
Andy & Janine Roberts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to access Giant Gate Falls for a day trip is by taking a water taxi from Milford Sound to Sandfly Point. From there, it's a hike along the Milford Track.
No, you cannot drive directly to Giant Gate Falls. It's located on the Milford Track, which is a hiking trail. Access is typically via water taxi from Milford Sound.
Yes, there are bus services and tours that operate from Queenstown and Te Anau to Milford Sound, which is the starting point for accessing Giant Gate Falls.
The hike from Sandfly Point (reached by water taxi) to Giant Gate Falls is approximately 5km one way, taking about 1.5 hours each way, for a total of around 3 hours return.
The most popular day trip option is to take a water taxi to Sandfly Point and hike to Giant Gate Falls and back. This offers a great taste of the track's beauty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You'll need to book a water taxi to Sandfly Point. The hike itself on the Milford Track is free to access for day hikers.
Water taxi prices can vary, but it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. Check with local Milford Sound operators for current pricing.
Fiordland National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. However, activities within the park, like Milford Sound cruises or water taxis, will have associated costs.
Water taxi services typically operate during daylight hours. It's best to confirm their schedule with the operator when booking to ensure you have enough time for your hike.
The Milford Track is generally accessible year-round, but weather conditions can be extreme, especially in winter. Always check local conditions before you go.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderate. It's a well-maintained track but can be rocky and wet in places, requiring sturdy footwear.
Yes, some visitors take a dip in the icy waters near the falls if they are feeling brave! Be aware of the cold temperatures.
Keep an eye out for native birds like the weka, which are known to be curious and may try to snatch your snacks!
Basic facilities like toilets are available at Sandfly Point and potentially at other points along the track, but it's always good to be prepared.
Allow at least 4-5 hours, including travel time to Sandfly Point via water taxi, the hike itself, and time to enjoy the falls.
📸 📸 Photography
Midday can be harsh, but the falls are impressive in any light. Overcast or rainy days often enhance the dramatic atmosphere and waterfall flow.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding rainforest. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet surfaces.
Yes, there's a bridge near the falls that provides an excellent perspective for capturing the waterfall.
Use a faster shutter speed to freeze the water droplets, or a slower shutter speed with a tripod to create a silky smooth water effect. Protect your lens from spray.
The main challenges are the wet conditions, potential for spray, and managing the dynamic range between the bright sky and dark forest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks (and keep them secure from wekas!) and ensure everyone has comfortable, waterproof footwear. 🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Milford Sound
Take a water taxi to Sandfly Point and enjoy a scenic 3-hour return walk to the falls. This allows you to immerse yourself in the Fiordland rainforest and witness a stunning waterfall without needing to commit to a longer trek. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale, and be prepared for wet conditions by protecting your gear. The bridge near the falls is a prime spot for capturing iconic shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Milford Track as a Day Hiker
The hike is approximately 5km one way, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the falls, making it a manageable day trip for most visitors. Along the way, you'll cross charming bridges and hear the rush of the Clinton River, immersing you in the wild beauty of the area. This day walk is particularly appealing for those who couldn't secure bookings for the full Milford Track, which is notoriously difficult to reserve due to its popularity and limited capacity. It also serves as a more budget-friendly alternative for experiencing this iconic New Zealand Great Walk.
Key takeaways for day hikers include wearing appropriate waterproof footwear, as the track can be muddy and wet, and being prepared for Fiordland's unpredictable weather.
The Majesty of Fiordland National Park
Milford Sound, the gateway to Giant Gate Falls, is a prime example of Fiordland's grandeur. Visitors often describe it as a place of unparalleled magic, with its sheer cliffs, dark waters, and often mist-shrouded peaks creating an ethereal atmosphere.
The sheer scale of the landscape can be awe-inspiring, whether viewed from a boat cruise on the sound or from the hiking trails like the Milford Track. Exploring Fiordland National Park offers a chance to connect with nature on a profound level. The dramatic scenery, the sound of cascading water, and the feeling of being in a truly wild place are what draw visitors from around the globe.
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