Lake Marian Track
A challenging yet incredibly rewarding hike in Fiordland National Park leading to a stunning alpine lake with dramatic mountain reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Lake Marian Track
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet incredibly rewarding hike in Fiordland National Park leading to a stunning alpine lake with dramatic mountain reflections.
"The photos don’t do it justice; the lake at the end is breathtaking."
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The track is often wet, muddy, and rocky. Good traction is crucial for safety and comfort.
⏰ Allow 3-4 hours return
This includes time for the hike, enjoying the lake, and potential photo stops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Marian
End of the track
A breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, often reflecting the dramatic scenery like a mirror.
Marian Falls
Start of the track
A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short, well-maintained path, offering a pleasant introduction to the hike.
Forest and Mountain Scenery
Along the track
Experience lush rainforests, moss-covered trees, and emerging mountain vistas as you ascend towards the alpine lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Lake Marian
Track Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The track is often wet, muddy, and rocky. Good traction is crucial for safety and comfort.
⏰ Allow 3-4 hours return
This includes time for the hike, enjoying the lake, and potential photo stops.
💧 Be prepared for mud
Especially after rain, expect puddles and slippery sections.
⬆️ Moderate to hard difficulty
Some steep sections and uneven terrain require good fitness.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking boots
The track is often wet, muddy, and rocky. Good traction is crucial for safety and comfort.
⏰ Allow 3-4 hours return
This includes time for the hike, enjoying the lake, and potential photo stops.
💧 Be prepared for mud
Especially after rain, expect puddles and slippery sections.
⬆️ Moderate to hard difficulty
Some steep sections and uneven terrain require good fitness.
📸 Bring your camera
The views are spectacular and worth capturing.
🥶 Consider a dip!
Brave hikers can take a refreshing swim in the alpine lake.
🚗 Free parking available
The Lake Marian car park is usually accessible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Marian for its breathtaking beauty, calling it a 'favorite' and 'spectacular' hike. The stunning alpine lake, often with mirror-like reflections, and the dramatic mountain scenery are major highlights. While challenging, the hike is widely considered worth the effort, with many enjoying the journey through forests and past waterfalls. Some find the track difficult, especially in wet conditions, and advise caution on descents.
"The photos don’t do it justice.
If you’re just doing the Lake Marian Falls:
Immediately after the carpark there is a swing bridge over this very clear blue water. You follow a simple trail up beside the falls with stopping points through the trees and a boarded walkway to view at the top.
To continue on the full Lake Marian track, there is a gate after the boarded walkway. This is where the track actually begins.
Starts off quite wet with lots of rocks, then it becomes a forest walk with trees all around you and the tree roots become little steps and foot holds.
The lake at the end is breathtaking. The valley with the sun beaming down onto the lake, people swimming, the snow on the mountain top just above.
We walked around the left side of the lake to look into the valley but it’s much of the same view, it just becomes slightly grassier.
The hike up is not easy. It’s considered the second hardest rank on the DOC website. I wouldn’t say it’s THAT hard though. It is well worth the effort.
Bring hiking boots (wet, unstable ground).
Don’t attempt to come down the track at night.
Some parts require a few hand holds.
A bit hard on the knees coming down.
It took us 4 hours with a few stops going up (😅), a long stop at the top, and a walk around the lake."
Emily Blackwell
"We loved this hike - definitely a favorite. It was the right amount of challenging with lots of uphill and careful stepping with rock and tree roots but great views and at the top, you pop out of the woods suddenly into the valley with the lake. Worth it! There is a waterfall going into the lake and the air was crisper and colder there. If you go after it has rained, be prepared for puddles and slick rock and tree roots - have shoes or hiking boots with good traction. Truly a beautiful place with an unexpected view from how the hike as a whole looks! There is a vault toilet at the top of the trail at your turn around point. The views are good throughout with forest and running water. You start the track going over a bridge. There were a lot of people parked, but we had no issue finding a place to park our RV."
Kiki S
"A beautiful hike in Milford Sound. Quite tricky in some places, maybe due to the weather but we enjoyed it. The view at the end of the trail is so worth it."
Mia Streams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lake Marian Track is located off the Milford Road, approximately 38 kilometers from Milford Sound, near the Hollyford Road turnoff. Parking is available at the Lake Marian car park.
Yes, the track is situated on the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, making it a convenient stop.
Te Anau is the closest town to Milford Sound. You can drive from Te Anau to the Lake Marian Track, which takes about 2 hours. Guided tours from Te Anau are also available.
It's about a 40-minute drive from Milford Sound to the Lake Marian car park.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead, guided tours often include transport from Te Anau.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lake Marian Track is part of Fiordland National Park and is free to access. Parking is also free.
The track is open year-round, but access can be restricted during winter and spring due to avalanche risk. Always check Department of Conservation (DOC) advisories.
No booking is required for the track itself. However, if you're considering a guided tour, booking in advance is recommended.
The track and parking are free. Any costs would be related to transportation or guided tours.
Hiking the track is the primary way to experience Lake Marian. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a guided day walk.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The round trip typically takes 3-4 hours, including time to enjoy the lake. Some sources suggest 1.5-2 hours one way. 
It's generally considered moderate to hard due to steep sections, uneven terrain, and potential mud. +1
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential. Layers of clothing are recommended due to changing weather conditions.
Yes, many visitors swim in Lake Marian, but be prepared for very cold alpine water!
Yes, there is a vault toilet at the turnaround point at the top of the trail.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The lake itself offers stunning reflections, especially on calm days. The surrounding mountains and waterfalls along the track also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the lake.
The weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for overcast conditions or rain. The track can also be challenging to navigate with camera gear.
Drone usage is generally restricted in New Zealand National Parks. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Aim for the 'golden hour' during sunrise or sunset for the best light, but be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. The forest sections also offer unique photographic opportunities with mossy trees and dappled light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Lake Marian Track
Beyond the falls, the track becomes more demanding. It transitions into a forest walk with numerous tree roots that act as natural steps and foot-holds. The terrain can be wet, muddy, and uneven, requiring careful footing. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of wearing sturdy hiking boots with good traction to navigate these conditions safely.
The ascent involves significant elevation gain, leading to an alpine environment. The final approach to Lake Marian can be steep, and some sections may require using your hands for balance. Despite the challenges, the breathtaking views of the glacial lake, surrounded by dramatic peaks, make the effort undeniably worthwhile.
The Allure of Lake Marian
The lake is a popular spot for visitors to relax, take photos, and even brave a dip in its icy waters. The surrounding valley, often bathed in sunlight, adds to the magical atmosphere. The contrast between the lush forest of the lower track and the rugged alpine landscape at the lake is striking.
During winter and spring, the area can be subject to avalanches, and DOC advises against walking around the lake edge during these periods. Always check current conditions and advisories before your visit.
Best Practices for Visiting Lake Marian
Plan your visit to avoid peak times if possible. Weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds. Allow ample time for the hike, including breaks to appreciate the scenery and the lake itself.
Remember that this is a natural environment. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of the fragile alpine ecosystem. For those seeking a more guided experience, several tour operators offer day trips from Te Anau, which can include transport and a picnic lunch.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit