Hiking New Zealand's Milford Track: Photographer Perspectives and Valuable Tips
Join us on our four-day Milford Track adventure through New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, as we share our experiences, stunning photographs, and essential tips for hikers and photographers alike.
A Milky Way panorama from Clinton Hut on our first night on the Milford Track, the skies were unbelievably clear and dark!
New Zealand's Milford Track, a breathtaking 53.5 km journey through Fiordland National Park, has often been described as the finest walk in the world.
Our four-day hike on this enchanting trail, which leads from the head of Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound, was nothing short of extraordinary.
In this blog post, we'll provide a day-by-day breakdown of our adventure, share our experiences, and offer some tips for fellow hikers and photographers who are planning to embark on this journey.
The Milford Track winds through lush rainforests, vast alpine meadows, and stunning glacial valleys, making it a haven for nature lovers. The area boasts pristine rivers and streams, with some of the cleanest water in the world – in fact, it's safe to drink directly from the source. As for birdlife, the Fiordland National Park is home to a variety of native birds, adding a delightful soundtrack to our adventure.
Day 1: Setting Off on Our Adventure
As two friends and photographers, we were eager to explore the natural beauty of the Milford Track. We set off on a picturesque boat ride from Te Anau to the trailhead at Glade Wharf, enjoying excellent weather and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Upon arriving at Glade Wharf, we embarked on a short walk to Clinton Hut, our first stop on the track. Where we found many people at the hut, we enjoyed chatting with fellow hikers. After settling in, we took a short nap to recharge before a night of astrophotography under New Zealand's famous dark and clear skies. We were surprised to witness Starlink satellites streaking across the sky before astronomical twilight - a stark reminder that even the most remote corners of the world will soon be connected. Later that night we were treated to some incredibly clear and dark skies, and could witness the Milky Way in its full glory!
The helipad at Clinton Hut is ideal for taking shots from, as you’re above the bush and have great 360 views.
Tip 1: Pack Light and Efficiently
Packing for the Milford Track was a delicate balance between necessity, camera gear, and weight considerations. We were thoughtful in our packing choices, ensuring that we had essential items while keeping our load as light as possible. Remember, it's crucial to pack only what you need and make smart choices about which items to bring along. As astrophotographers and long-exposure lovers, we carried tripods, but the lightest ones we own.
Day 2: Exploring the Milford Track
On day two, we set off for Mintaro Hut, taking our time to explore off-track and capture stunning photographs of the pristine wilderness. Upon reaching Mintaro Hut, we couldn't resist a dip in the nearby river, despite the icy temperature. The invigorating swim was an excellent way to soothe our bodies after a day on the trail. We 100% recommend it! Surprisingly there were no sandflies to be seen, the coldness must have been keeping them away.
Tip 2: Utilize Available Facilities
The recently built, two-year-old Mintaro Hut was a welcome haven for us, as it offered USB chargers that helped us keep our photography equipment charged. Be sure to take advantage of any amenities available at the huts, such as chargers.
Day 3: Conquering Mackinnon Pass
On day three, we tackled the legendary Mackinnon Pass. Despite light rain, the climb was surprisingly manageable. However, the summit brought us face-to-face with fierce winds and sideways rain, making it impossible to take in the views we had anticipated.
Although the weather wasn't in our favor, it led to the creation of spectacular waterfalls as we descended the pass. The track was transformed into a river, providing a unique experience. Unfortunately, the torrential rain forced us to rely on our smartphones for capturing memories, as we didn't want to risk damaging our cameras.
This means one thing- we must return!
Tip 3: Be Prepared for Changing Weather
Always pack appropriate clothing and gear for unpredictable weather conditions, as they can change rapidly in Fiordland National Park.
Make sure your equipment is in dry bags and water can’t get in!
Day 4: The Final Stretch
On the final day, we faced the longest stretch of our journey. While the hike was relatively easy, our tired legs were grateful for the support of our hiking poles. Fortunately, the rain was much lighter, allowing us to better appreciate our surroundings.
The Milford Track is closed during winter due to the high avalanche risk, and the bridges are removed during this time. It's important to plan your trip accordingly and check the weather and trail conditions before embarking on the journey.
Weighed down by our 23kg backpacks, which were heavier than most due to our camera equipment, we made a mental note to bring more food on our next adventure, as we burned more calories than we had anticipated. It was a fine balance between necessary items and camera gear, but we were happy with our packing choices overall.
Our time on the Milford Track provided us with incredible memories and countless photographs. Along the way, we made new friends, met fascinating people, and enjoyed the company of the knowledgeable and friendly Department of Conservation (DOC) hut wardens. Don't be shy to engage with fellow hikers and wardens, as their captivating stories and experiences can enrich your journey.
Tip 4: Plan, then plan some more
Tickets for the Milford Track sell out immediately, and we consider ourselves lucky to have secured them last year. If you're considering embarking on the Milford Track, we wholeheartedly recommend it. Not only will you be immersed in the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand, but you'll also create unforgettable memories and lasting friendships. Happy trails!
Please feel free to reach out and ask us for any specific tips about hiking the Milford track. We’ll be happy to help!
