How to Get to the Milford Track

Planning to walk the Milford Track? One of the most common questions hikers ask is how to get to the Milford Track. Unlike many hiking trails, the Milford Track cannot be accessed by private vehicle alone. Reaching the start of the walk requires a combination of coach and boat transfers.

The good news is that getting there is straightforward when you book your transport in advance. This guide explains exactly how to get to the Milford Track from Queenstown and Te Anau, what to expect on the journey, and how to book your transfers.

Where Does the Milford Track Start?

The Milford Track begins at Glade Wharf, at the northern end of Lake Te Anau. To reach Glade Wharf, all walkers must take a scenic boat cruise across Lake Te Anau from Te Anau Downs.At the end of the track, you will finish at Sandfly Point in Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and take a short boat ride across the harbour to Milford Sound.

Because of this unique setup, transport is an essential part of any Milford Track itinerary.

How to Get to the Milford Track from Queenstown

If you are staying in Queenstown, the easiest option is to book a combined coach and boat transfer.

Your journey includes:

• Coach transfer from Queenstown to Te Anau Downs
• Scenic boat cruise across Lake Te Anau to Glade Wharf
• Return boat transfer from Sandfly Point to Milford Sound
• Coach transfer from Milford Sound back to Queenstown

The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau Downs takes approximately 2.5 hours.

This option is ideal for international visitors and anyone who prefers not to drive.

How to Get to the Milford Track from Te Anau

If you are staying in Te Anau, you can join the transfer from there.

This includes:

• Coach transfer from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs
• Boat transfer to Glade Wharf
• Boat transfer from Sandfly Point to Milford Sound
• Coach transfer from Milford Sound back to Te Anau

This is the most popular choice for independent walkers.

Can You Drive Yourself to the Milford Track?

You can drive to Te Anau Downs, where the boat departs for the start of the Milford Track. However, because the walk finishes in Milford Sound, your vehicle will not be waiting for you at the end. For this reason, most walkers book return coach and boat transfers rather than organising their own vehicle logistics.

What Is Included in Milford Track Transport?

Most transport packages include:

• Comfortable coach travel
• Scenic boat transfer across Lake Te Anau
• Boat transfer from Sandfly Point to Milford Sound
• Return transport to Te Anau or Queenstown

Do You Need to Book Milford Track Transport in Advance?

Yes. Milford Track transport should be booked well in advance, of the Great Walks season from late October to April.

Departure times are coordinated with Department of Conservation hut bookings and track schedules, so spaces can fill quickly.

Once you have your hut booking, it is best to secure your transport as soon as possible.

Why Book with Transport Milford Track?

At Transport Milford Track, we specialise in seamless bus and boat transfers for independent Milford Track walkers.

Our services include:

• Departures from Queenstown and Te Anau
• Connections timed to DOC departure schedules
• Comfortable coaches
• Comfortable catamaran suitable in all weather conditions
• Toilets onboard the boat
• Easy online booking process

We make getting to and from the Milford Track simple and stress free.

Book Your Milford Track Transport

Whether you are travelling from Queenstown or Te Anau, we offer reliable transfers designed specifically for Milford Track walkers. Book your coach and boat transfers online and enjoy a seamless journey to one of New Zealand's most iconic Great Walks.

Book your Milford Track transport today.

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