Best Waterfalls In Milford Sound Worth Checking Out

Let’s get into all the best waterfalls in Milford Sound that are worth checking out. Seriously, there are so many to explore, so come find out locations, how to get there, and more.

Now, if you’re traveling in New Zealand, no doubt you will find yourself in Milford Sound at some point. This little spot is a tourist hotspot, and for damn good reason.

It’s known for the beautiful fiord, towering cliffs, a good assortment of animals from Kea, dolphins, and seals to penguins, oh, and of course, you can’t forget the impressive waterfalls in Milford Sound!

Now you may be surprised to learn that an area known for its crazy waterfall displays actually has only two permanent ones. However, visit on a rainy day and this place comes to life!

I was lucky enough to visit on a wet and wild day in winter, which, honestly, in any other place would be a bad thing, though here in Milford Sound is where the rain puts on a true show.

Nevertheless, let’s get into these waterfalls in Milford Sound, including how to get to them and what to expect.

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1. Bowen Falls

Now let’s start with the main big boy, or should I say Lady here in Milford Sound, Lady Bowen Falls.

This is no doubt the most iconic waterfall located around the township, being easily spotted from the waterfront.

Honestly, you may need glasses if you can’t see it, cause no matter if it’s rain or shine, the water will be rushing down the 162 meter drop, creating plenty of mist (and noise).

Surprisingly enough, Bowen Falls actually supplies all the fresh water to Milford Township, yup, it’s that fresh mountain goodness.

If you are keen to do a bit of a hike out this way, you can check out the Lady Bowen Falls Track, which takes you alongside the pipes.

The Best Time To Visit Bowen Falls

Thankfully, this is one of the two permanent waterfalls here in Milford Sound, so it’s one you literally can’t miss.

That means there really is no bad time to visit!

How To Get To Bowen Falls

You’ll need to either do the Bowen Falls Track or the more popular option, the boat cruise, to visit.

Personally, I recommend taking the boat as you’ll also have the chance to see plenty of other waterfalls and sights along the way.

2. Stirling Falls

Next up, we have the second most well known waterfall here in Milford Sound, Stirling Falls.

Reaching 155 meters in height, you again get an impressive drop into the water below. This is my personal favorite waterfall in the area, and in my opinion, the best view is when you’re approaching it by boat.

It perfectly flows off a U-shaped valley between two mountains and is fed by glacier waters, so you know it’s chilly!

One of the unique experiences here is that your cruise captain usually takes the boat right up under all the mist and spray. Bring a rain jacket and stand up the front if you’re keen for a refreshing shower!

The Best Time To Visit Stirling Falls

Similar to Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls is the second permanent waterfall here in Milford Sound, so there’s no particular weather or season required to check it out.

Typically, the cruise boats will always go underneath, though I’m sure it’s extra refreshing on a hot day.

How To Get To Stirling Falls

Now the ONLY way to visit Stirling Falls is by taking one of the cruise operators.

When you book, you’ll be booking a general Milford Sound tour, so you’ll get to explore the nature and wildlife found here in the fiord.

Just keep in mind the cruises are a bit more on the pricey side of things. But since this is the best way to see some of the best things to do in Milford Sound, it’s for sure worth it.

3. The Four Sisters Falls

Now this is one of the many waterfalls that only appear in Milford Sound on a rainy day.

The unique feature here is, as the name may give away, that there are four nearly identical waterfalls which appear right next to each other.

Now, depending on the weather, you may find that when you visit, there may only be one, two, or three of the sisters present.

The fourth one only occurs when the rain is crazy heavy!

We were lucky enough to witness all four, however, they are pretty hard to capture in one photo as they are so big, and we were right underneath on the cruise boat.

The Best Time To Visit The Four Sisters Falls

Now obviously, if you’re keen to check out this waterfall, you’ll need to visit on a seriously rainy and wet day.

For the best luck with this visit during the winter months of June, July, or August. Though with this, there is a risk that the Milford Sound Highway will be closed due to bad weather.

How To Get To The Four Sisters Falls

Similarly to many of the waterfalls out in the Milford fiord, you’ll need to take a boat cruise to visit. This is easy enough to book online, and you def need to do this in advance.

4. Fairy Falls

Considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Milford Sound, which, to be honest, is quite a claim, is Fairy Falls.

It’s one of the semi permanent waterfalls in the area, so only during a super dry period does it disappear. However, the majority of the time, it’s flowing free.

The water from here drops straight down into the fiord, and this is another spot a lot of boat cruises will drive slightly under.

So yes, stay inside, otherwise, bring your rain jacket and prepare to get DRENCHED.

If you aren’t keen on getting wet, you can actually still experience this waterfall by literally drinking it! Yes, on some boat tours, the crew sets up glasses to catch the water.

Don’t worry, this is a glacier fed waterfall, and the water here is the purest around.

5. Bridal Veil Falls

Another semi permanent waterfall in Milford Sound is Bridal Veil Falls, and of course, it’s equally as beautiful as the rest.

However, this time you won’t get that close up, refreshing blast of glacier water. Since there are quite a lot of rocks around the base, this is one of the waterfalls you’ll have to admire from afar.

Aptly named because of the cascading white misty waters perfectly represents a typical bridal veil.

The Best Time To Visit Bridal Veil Falls

Again, being a semi permanent waterfall, you’ll be best off visiting during Spring, Autumn, or Winter.

This is because those long, hot summer days can dry up the water source, and it’ll take a bit of heavy rain to get things going again.

How To Get To Bridal Veil Falls

Okay, last one I promiseeee, it’s the good ol’ boat cruise once again!

I know I’m getting a bit repetitive with it, but seriously, you’ll see the best waterfalls in Milford Sound from the boat, plus so many other cool views as well.

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6. The Rainy Day Waterfalls

Okay, if you don’t already know, Milford Sound gets W.E.T.! Like, seriously wet, since it’s literally one of the wettest places on Earth.

That fact in itself is pretty damn mind blowing.

And I know no one likes being soggy and damp. However, the rain in Milford Sound actually transforms the landscapes and makes it one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen.

Every single cliff face, mountain, and rocky terrain becomes the ideal location for hundreds, maybe thousands of waterfalls to magically appear.

It’s pretty damn crazy to see the landscape just transform around you, but it’s a unique experience I haven’t come across elsewhere in the world yet.

The Best Time To Visit To See All The Waterfalls

Of course, we are looking for rainy weather! Spring, Autumn, or Winter will be your best bets.

Though let’s remember we’re in Milford Sound, one of the wettest places in the world, so chances are there’ll be a little something for you.

How To Get To These Waterfalls

Okay, I’m being serious here, these waterfalls are freakin everywhere.

Basically, once you hit the main Milford Sound highway from Te Anau and start making your way deeper into the mountains (from Monkey Creek onwards), you will have your best chances to see them, all the way down to Milford Sound itself.

There are some excellent jagged cliff faces along the highway where these waterfalls quickly form.

Whereas down at the Milford Sound Basin, more of the cliffs and mountainsides and covered in trees for a little bit of greenery alongside your waterfall.

Other Waterfalls On The Way To Milford Sound

Don’t worry, there are still plenty of waterfalls you can check out on the way to Milford Sound.

Some of these are a little bit more difficult to get to, whereas others are just a simple little walk.

7. Falls Creek Waterfalls

First up, we have Falls Creek Waterfalls, which is a super easy one to get to, so much so that you can actually see it from the roadside!

Honestly, it isn’t crazy impressive, especially considering the other options you’ll find nearby. However, it’s easy to access, and beggars can’t be choosers.

 You’ll find it just after Hollyford Road. Plus, there’s a little carpark if you’re keen to pull over for a break.

8. The Chasm

The Chasm The Chasm is one of those super popular spots along the Milford Sound Highway (like Eglinton Valley or Mirror Lakes).

It’s super unique thanks to the unusual holes made in the rocks from the fast moving and circling waters. Alongside these unique rock pools, small waterfalls flow down.

It’s super easy to get to being just a short 200 meter walk from the carpark to the main viewpoint, and the track is flat.

Unfortunately, it was closed for track maintenance when I was in the area, so I had to skip it, but I’m sure I’ll be back at some stage to check it out!

9. Humboldt Falls

Up next, we have Humboldt Falls, the first waterfall you’ll really have to put some effort into getting to.

Though don’t let that scare you off, for just a 25 minute walk one way (50 minutes return), it’ll be completely worth it.

Humboldt Falls is a massive 275 metres high and is considered one of the most impressive in the region.

You don’t really get overly close to the waterfall with the track. However, once you arrive, there is an excellent viewing platform straight over to it, plus the fall is large enough it makes for quite a sight.

10. Sutherland Falls

Okay, okay, now for some real effort = reward type of scenario, Sutherland Falls is def the one.

So by no means is this waterfall easy to get to. If you aren’t so worried about money, then you can take an incredible scenic flight, which takes you over the top and is well worth it!

However, if you’re a lil more like me and can’t really afford to splash out on scenic flights too often (never), then it’s time to lace up those trekking boots.

You’ll need to head off on the epic Milford Sounds Track, a 4 day hike, and known as THE great walk in New Zealand. But, of course, it’s never that easy either. You’ll need to purchase tickets (and only 40 tickets are available per day).

These are released once a year, typically in June, and do sell out immediately. You can keep up to date on the DOC Great Walks Webpage.

Back to the waterfall, Sutherland Falls is an insane 580 metres high, which is pretty damn mind blowing. Plus, if you decide to do the hike, you’ll get a whole heap of awesome other views along the way.

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11. Giants Gate Falls

Last but nowhere near least, we have number 11 on our list of Milford Sound Waterfalls, Giants Gate Falls. This one is still located on the Milford Track.

However, it’s only an hour in, so super easy to get to, and you don’t need a ticket since you aren’t staying overnight. The only downside is you’ll need to book a boat to get to the access point.

 Once you arrive, you’ll get epic views of this waterfall flowing right out the cliffside.

There’s also a pretty awesome bridge running over in the front, which makes for the perfect photo spot. 

Where To Stay In Milford Sound

Sweet, so you’ve checked out the waterfalls around the area, and perhaps you’re keen to spend a bit longer here.

Well, unfortunately, there aren’t a bunch of accommodation options available. Instead, you’ll have to pick from just a couple.

First up, we have Milford Sound Lodge, which is def on the pricey side, starting from $370.00 per night in winter and $620.00 per night in summer (breakfast and dinner are included).

Alternatively, if you happen to have a camper, there’s also the Rainforest Campervan Park.

This is where I stayed, and it was perfect! There’s awesome hot showers, a modern kitchen, and epic birdlife.

Seriously, who doesn’t want to be welcomed into the campsite by a cheeky kea playing around!

Milford Sound Lodge THE place to stay here in Milford Sound. They have incredible rooms in an equally incredible location. Prices start from $370.00 in winter and $620 in summer this breakfast and dinner included. BOOK NOW	Eglinton Valley Camp Located halfway between Te Anau and Milford Sound, and surrounded by nature. Rooms here start from $140.00 per night which is great considering the location! BOOK NOW
Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers Your budget friendly option in Te Anau. Dorms rooms start from $25.00 per night, and they also have private rooms available. BOOK NOW	Dusky Motels A clean and comfortable typical kiwi motel, the perfect choice for families. Double rooms start from $100.00 per night. BOOK NOW

Things To Do In Milford Sound

Now, no stress, you’ll find plenty of other things to do here in Milford Sound. Though best to know this is an area known for its nature and landscapes, so don’t expect any high adrenaline activities.

Go On A Boat Cruise: Heading out on a Milford Sound boat tour is a must! You really can’t come all this way and not take a cruise. You’ll get amazing views of the scenery, awesome waterfalls, and wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and penguins.

Visit The Milford Sound Swing: A popular instagramy photo spot is the Milford Sound Swing. Located on the foreshore, it’s pretty damn easy to get to and has incredible views over to Mitre Peak.

Scenic Flights: If you can afford it, a scenic flight is an awesome way to see the area and mountains from above. Most of these flights take off from Queenstown or Te Anau.

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory: Want to see Milford Sound from a new angle? Check out the Underwater Observatory! You can head 10 meters down and peep black coral and all sorts of cool sea creatures.