Mirror Lakes: Is It Worth Visiting In Milford Sound, NZ?

Come find out all you need to know about Mirror Lakes in Fiordland National Park. From how to get there, why it’s worth visiting, what to expect, and more!

Now when you are on the way to Milford Sound you will find plenty of awesome spots worth stopping at. Whether this is for the epic scenery, local wildlife, or just to take a breather on this long drive. Well, one of the most popular places on this journey is Mirror Lakes, known for its beautiful reflections.

Though, considering its popularity is it even worth visiting? No one wants to be out in the wilderness and be surrounded by a hundred people from tour buses, so how do you avoid it?

Luckily enough I have been able to explore this part of New Zealand while at home between international trips and am here to share my tips with you. No doubt Fiordland National Park stole a little piece of my heart with its amazing landscapes, so I am excited you are going to experience it as well!

Nevertheless, back to Mirror Lakes, let’s get into all the details worth knowing when it comes to visiting. I will let you know how to get there, the best time for your trip, what to expect, what wildlife you may see, and more.

Visiting The Mirror Lakes On The Way To Milford Sound: Best Travel Tips

A serene view of Mirror Lakes in Milford Sound, New Zealand. The calm, reflective water mirrors the surrounding lush greenery and towering mountains, partially shrouded in a blanket of clouds. The foreground features some native vegetation, with the vibrant blue sky and scattered clouds creating a picturesque and tranquil scene. — looking out over mirror lakes

🚌 How I Book Cheap Buses In New Zealand: Intercity

Where is Mirror Lakes Located?

Mirror Lakes is located along the scenic drive between Te Anau and Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.

Just off the road on State Highway 94, also known as the Milford Sound Highway, it makes for a super accessible stop for anyone visiting.

There is plenty of parking stretched alongside the road which can fit numerous cars, campers, and even tour buses!

A close-up view of majestic, snow-capped Earl Mountain Peaks against a brilliant blue sky. The rugged mountain tops are partially obscured by low-hanging clouds, enhancing the dramatic contrast between the pristine white snow and the dark, rocky surfaces. The lush, green foothills below add a touch of softness to the otherwise stark landscape. — looking up at the earl mountains from mirror lake

Why Is Mirror Lakes Worth Visiting?

Now if you are traveling the Southland of New Zealand, no doubt you have seen so many beautiful places. Seriously this place is mind blowingly beautiful, even for someone that lives here.

But what actually makes Mirror Lakes unique and why has it become such a popular spot?

Well, the main selling feature of this place is the beautiful reflections on the lakes of the nearby Earl Mountains. It creates a great photo opportunity for professionals and novices alike because you seriously can’t screw this shot up!

The gorgeous reflections are taken to a whole other level in winter with snow capped mountains mirroring perfectly on the surface. It looks nearly surreal, and I bet it crossed minds that it looks like Photoshopped, but it’s not.

Another great thing about Mirror Lakes and why it is such an admired place is that it is so accessible. Seriously, hundreds of thousands of people visit Milford Sound every year and this is probably one of the most popular stops along the way.

Whether you are driving in a camper, a car, or even on a bus tour, there is plenty of parking here, so there is no excuse not to visit!

Mirror Lakes is also super easy to get to. Even though there is the Mirror Lakes Walk, which I will get into in more detail below, it only takes a couple of minutes. This way no matter your age or fitness level, you will be able to check it out. The pathway leading to the viewing point is even wheelchair accessible!

Another picturesque scene of Mirror Lakes in Milford Sound, showcasing the pristine water reflecting the dense forest and misty mountains. The image captures the delicate balance of nature with vibrant greenery, serene water, and the imposing presence of the mountains under a sky dotted with clouds, creating a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere. — a sunny day at mirror lakes with the mountain peaks popping through the clouds in the relfection

When Is The Best Time To Visit?

Unlike Milford Sound itself which is known for being amazing regardless of the weather, Mirror Lakes is not like this.

You will want to visit on a perfectly still day. Bonus points if you happen to get a blue sky as it isn’t too common here.

Just note that if you have even a slightly windy day, or rainy, which is what I had during my visit, any hope of a reflection will be gone. The water will be disturbed by the breeze or raindrops and honestly, in this situation, it feels just like any other body of water.

Hate me if you want, but honestly, I preferred the reflection at Lake Matheson on the West Coast, but I did visit Mirror Lake on a bad day.

Regardless, depending on the time of year you visit you may notice things look slightly different. In spring and summer, you will have vibrant green mountains framing the landscape, while autumn offers a stunning display of gold and red scenery as the leaves start to change color. In winter, the snow-capped mountains and frosty landscapes take the main focus.

A person in a gray hoodie stands on a wooden platform overlooking Mirror Lakes in Milford Sound. The platform is surrounded by dense greenery and offers a view of the misty, snow-capped mountains in the background. The gray, cloudy sky and the reflective surface of the lake create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. — trying to hide from the questionable weather

tasha amy with long hair and a red jacket, holding a transparent umbrella, stands on a wooden platform by a lake. The backdrop features a stunning view of mist-covered mountains and dense vegetation. The overcast sky and light drizzle add a touch of melancholy to the otherwise peaceful setting. — there is no reflection to be seen on mirror lake on a day like today

Misty mountains with their peaks dusted in snow rise majestically above a golden grassy field and dense shrubbery. The overcast sky casts a muted light over the landscape, accentuating the moody and mysterious aura. The interplay of the snow, mist, and varied vegetation showcases the diverse and rugged beauty of the area. — view above the lake over to the nearby mountain range

The Mirror Lakes Walk

Well, to actually get to the viewing platform which looks over Mirror Lakes, and where all those thousands of photos are taken you will need to do the short Mirror Lakes Walk.

And when I say short I mean it. Looping around 400 meters / 0.25 miles it only takes around 10 minutes to complete. However, this time doesn’t include time marveling at the landscapes when you reach the viewpoint.

The walk is along a wooden boardwalk, slightly raised up from the forest floor. It is flat and has some mesh covering the boards so it doesn’t get slippery, even in the rain. There are handrails the entire way and no steps to navigate.

Along the pathway you will be able to admire some native plants of New Zealand, and if you are lucky you may just come across some local wildlife. The most common will be birdlife such as South Island Robin, Tui, Bellbird, or Grey Warbler, hanging out in the trees.

As you walk along the pathway you will eventually reach a lookout platform showcasing the stunning views of the Mirror Lakes. The clear, calm waters of these small lakes perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains and sky.

Overall the walk is super safe, and you don’t need to worry about getting muddy shoes. Just maybe bring along a rain jacket or umbrella if the weather isn’t looking the best.

A person in a gray hoodie walking along a wooden path leading to mirror lakes enveloped by dense, green forest. The path, lined with metal railings, guides through the thick foliage, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility. The diffused light filtering through the canopy creates a calm and introspective mood. — walking down the boardwalk to mirror lakes on the way to milford sound

🚌 How I Book Cheap Buses In New Zealand: Intercity

How To Get To Mirror Lakes

If you are visiting Mirror Lakes it is likely you will be traveling to Milford Sound and just making a quick stop here along the way.

Hiring A Car Or Camper

When considering whether hiring a vehicle to drive to Mirror Lakes and onwards to Milford Sound is right for you, you really need to think about your driving abilities.

The Milford Sound Highway is overall in great condition for a New Zealand Road, however, this is a place where you can experience four seasons in one day, aka rain, and lots of it. We also visited in winter where we had to deal with ice and snow, as well as having and knowing how to use snow chains.

My partner and I chose to hire a camper when exploring the South Island. We really wanted a bit more freedom, and spend overnight in Milford Sound which a bus tour would not allow.

I feel like hiring a camper and exploring New Zealand is one of those quintessential Kiwi experiences that you need to have here. Whether you are a local, or visiting from overseas there is such a camper culture here and it’s awesome to experience.

However, I do understand that not everyone can hire a camper during their visit. They are pricey, and it’s not just the upfront cost, you also have the think about insurance and fuel. Plus they can be quite big, I wimped out of driving after 30 seconds of trying down a random country road.

Therefore you may find that hiring a car is the best option for you. You will find so many options for rentals which I cover more in my Queenstown to Milford Sound guide.

The only downside here is that you will either need to splash out big on accommodation in Milford Sound, or simply only do a single day trip. Then as a result you may reconsider things and actually book a bus tour.

A person standing next to a white "Maui" campervan on a wet, overcast day. The campervan is parked on a roadside with a vast, open field and misty mountains in the background. The gray sky and damp ground create a moody, traveler's scene. — our trusty stead that took us into milford sound, the maui camper

A white "Maui" campervan parked near towering, mist-covered mountains. The rugged peaks rise dramatically against the overcast sky, creating a sense of isolation and adventure. The wet road and surrounding landscape emphasize the wild, untamed beauty of Milford Sound. — definitely glad we had our camper to hide from the weather, plus it was super easy to get a change of clothes when we got drenched from the rain

Booking A Bus Tour

Next up we have to book a bus tour, which honestly is a great option, you just have to prepare yourself, mentally and physically, for a long day.

Bus tours to Milford Sound depart from both Queenstown and Te Anau and the buses themselves are pretty awesome with most of them having a glass roof where you can really admire those mountain views.

There are numerous operators running these Milford Sound day trips so you will have plenty of choices to find the one that works best for you.

However, my favorite option is run by Pure Milford which offers a Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip. Costing $245.00 NZD / $150.00 per person, it includes transfers, lunch, tea and water, and a 2 hour cruise around Milford Sound.

As I mentioned, being a one day trip, it is quite a long day taking a full 12 hours in total to get back to Queenstown. Depending on the schedule and that there are no delays you should also get the chance to stop at some of the highlights along the Milford Road Highway, including the famous Mirror Lakes!

Honestly booking a bus tour takes away that extra stress of having to navigate an unfamiliar place and the extra pressure on the driver having to keep everyone safe. Instead, you can sit back and relax, take in the impressive scenery, and enjoy being in a new part of the country.

A group of people on a boat deck near a powerful waterfall in Milford Sound. The waterfall cascades down a steep, rocky cliff, creating a misty spray that envelops the area. The passengers, dressed warmly, seem captivated by the natural spectacle. — having fun on our boat tour around milford sound

Tall, rugged cliffs with cascading waterfalls are partially shrouded in mist, creating a dramatic and ethereal scene. The lush green foliage contrasts with the dark, rocky surfaces, while the waterfalls add a sense of movement and tranquility to the landscape. — beautiful twin waterfalls flowing in the fjord of milford sound

Other Stops Worth Visiting On The Way To Milford Sound

As you have probably well and truly figured out there is a heap of awesome places worth stopping at on your way to Milford Sound.

Te Anau

Te Anau is probably the least exciting stopping point, but a must do. This is your closest town to Milford Sound so it makes a great place to stop for supplies. Whether you need to use the bathroom, grab lunch, or some more camping supplies, this will be your last opportunity.

It’s also good to note that Te Anau will be your last opportunity to get fuel. There is no petrol station, and frankly barely anything, in Milford Sound. Therefore make sure you top up here even if you have plenty, you never know plans might change and the roads may close.

Eglinton Valley

As you enter Fiordland National Park from Te Anau you will come across the beautiful Eglinton Valley. This is one of the first proper stopping point you will come across, and it’s worth visiting.

Here you can admire the breathtaking landscape of vast grasslands framed by the majestic Earl Mountains. This expansive valley is an excellent spot to take some cheeky photos for those Sound of Music but New Zealand vibes.

tasha amy wearing a green poncho and a beanie walks across a vast, golden field towards mist-shrouded mountains in the distance. The wide-open space and towering mountain ranges create a sense of grandeur and adventure, while the overcast sky adds an element of solitude and introspection. — exploring the fields in the nearby eglinton valley

Hollyford Valley Lookout

Hollyford Valley Lookout, also known as the Pop’s View Lookout, is another great spot to stop at where you can see some epic views on a good day.

Just across from the car park, there is a special viewing platform where you can take some awesome photos and appreciate the incredible views. It’s one of the best places to take in the views of Hollyford Valley, Darren Mountains, and Humboldt Mountains.

Monkey Creek

One of my favorite stops along the Milford Sound Highway is Monkey Creek.

There is a proper parking area here and it is kept open in winter when a lot of the road shoulder is closed for stopping. This means you can get out of the car, stretch your legs, and take in some of the best views on the journey.

A narrow valley flanked by steep, snow-covered mountains with a rocky riverbed cutting through the middle. The rugged landscape is framed by towering cliffs and a cloudy sky, emphasizing the dramatic and untamed beauty of the natural surroundings. The stark contrast between the snow and the rocky terrain highlights the harshness and magnificence of the environment. — incredible views on the drive to milford sound, this is at the rest stop called monkey creek

Homer Tunnel

The Homer Tunnel is probably the most iconic place on the Highway, and somewhere you will likely stop even if you don’t want to. This is because this tunnel is approximately 1.2 kilometers long and is single lane, so traffic can and does build up a bit here.

The Homer Tunnel took nearly 20 years to build being carved straight through solid rock through the Darran Mountain range.

Before entering the tunnel, take a moment to appreciate the surrounding landscape and the harsh environment up here.

This is also a common spot to see kea which are alpine parrots native to New Zealand. Just be careful as they are good at targeting cars waiting in traffic to go through the tunnel and will pull apart the rubber seals.

The Chasm

A short 10 minute drive after the Homer Tunnel you will find The Chasm. The spot is known for its powerful river and waterfalls carving the rocks on the riverside into unique patterns.

Seriously there are hundreds of intricate nooks and crannies, and they all look like they have been sculpted to perfection.

What is also great is that there are boardwalks and viewing platforms making this a super accessible place to visit.

Tutoko River Bridge

My last stopping point to recommend is Tutoko River Bridge, a short distance from Milford Sound township. I know you are probably tired and hungry after that long drive however, just one more place!

It may not sound super duper exciting to visit an old bridge, however, the landscapes are truly what makes this special. Under the bridge is a raging river and across you have beautiful mountains framed by pine trees.

🚌 How I Book Cheap Buses In New Zealand: Intercity

Where To Stay In Milford Sound

In terms of accommodation in Milford Sound, you are super duper limited, however as a result you will get to experience this place during sunrise and sunset away from the tour buses and the crowds of tourists.

The only hotel choice you have here is called Milford Sound Lodge which is just a couple minute’s drive to the shoreline, otherwise, there is also a nice 20 minute or so walk. This is a beautiful stay in quite a romantic location.

However you should know it is quite pricey, but it is 100% worth it, and the price does include both breakfast and dinner.

Alternatively, you could also stay at Rainforest Campervan Park which is located on the same property. However this is just for campervans and has shared facilities, so you don’t get that plush hotel room stay.

Also there is a third option in Eglinton Valley, a short distance from Mirror Lakes called Eglinton Valley Camp. Sure you won’t be directly in Milford Sound, but you will be approximately an hour nonstop drive away.

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

FAQS About The Mirror Lakes New Zealand

Where are the Mirror Lakes NZ?

Mirror Lakes are located along State Highway 94 between Te Anau and Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. This picturesque stop is known for its clear, reflective waters that mirror the surrounding mountains and vegetation.

Wrap Up: All You Need To Know About Visiting Mirror Lakes NZ

No doubt visiting Mirror Lakes is a must when driving along the Milford Sound Highway. I mean this is one of the popular spots along this route, it’s a must do!

I know I didn’t have the ideal weather for those amazing views. But, if you have the same during your trip, still stop in and check it out.

The short walk is a good place to stretch those legs, plus with a bit of luck, you may still have some epic views.

Any Questions? Let Me Know In The Comments!

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Come find out all you need to know about Mirror Lakes in Fiordland National Park. From how to get there, why it's worth visiting, what to expect, and more!

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Photo credit: “Mirror Lakes” (CC BY 2.0) by Othree . “Mirror Lakes” (CC BY 2.0) by Othree. “The Mountain Tops” (CC BY 2.0) by Jocelyn Kinghorn.

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