Milford Track Great Walks season opens on 1 November

The Great Walks season on the Milford Track runs from 1 November 2026 to 30 April 2027, with the last departure on 28 April 2027, according to the Department of Conservation. We read DOC's Milford Track page on 23 October, and the details below come from it.

What changes on 1 November DOC says the Great Walks season is the best time to walk the track because there are more facilities and fewer hazards. Bookings are required for huts and for transport. Outside the season, from 1 May to 31 October 2026, DOC describes the track as cold and wet at times, with ice, snow and short daylight hours. It says only fit, experienced and well equipped people with alpine, river crossing and navigation skills should attempt it, and that facilities are greatly reduced.

How the walk works The track can only be walked in one direction, over 3 nights and 4 days. There are three huts, which must be booked well in advance during the Great Walks season, and camping is not permitted on the track. Day one starts with a boat cruise from Te Anau Downs of about 1 hour 15 minutes, then a 5km walk to Clinton Hut.

If you are not walking the track, you can still see Milford Sound on a day trip. Our Milford Sound planner and our guide to when to book Milford Sound cover the options.