Lake Gunn

Image: Miles Holden | ©

Lake Gunn Nature Walk

Located in Fiordland National Park and Milford Road/Milford Sound area in the Fiordland region

This place is part of

Introduction

Experience wild Fiordland on one of our best short walks - wander through red beech forest, enjoying glimpses of the birdlife of the Eglinton valley, Lake Gunn and the surrounding mountains. It's a good option for children.

Highlights

 

Fitness required: Suitable for all fitnesses
Gradient: Flat 

Track overview

1.4 km loop

Walking and tramping

45 min Easiest: Easy access short walk

Dog access

No dogs

About this track

Description

The tranquillity of the beech forest surrounds you within a few steps of the car park. Moss smothers the trees. Tomtits, riflemen and other forest birds are prolific.

A short side path takes you out onto a stony beach. The vast mountains surrounding the deep blue waters of Lake Gunn are awe-inspiring.  It’s not just a 45-minute loop track, it’s a chance to experience wild Fiordland.

The walk is very popular throughout the year but isn’t as busy in the colder months, which makes autumn and winter a great time to visit. The track is near the popular Cascade Creek campsite, and campers often complete the walk first thing in the morning or later in the evening. For the most tranquil experience, try this walk during the day. 

Getting there

The walk begins from Cascade Creek car park on the Milford Road, about 78 km from Te Anau.

Nature and conservation

The Eglinton valley is a stronghold for New Zealand’s native birds: South Island robin/kakaruai, kākā, yellowhead/mohua as well as short-tailed bats and long-tailed bats.

Know before you go

What to expect

Change in elevation: +/- 50 m

Hazards
  • Rapidly changing weather – this walk is in an alpine region.
Amenities
  • Wheelchair accessible toilets at the car park.
  • Picnic table in the Cascade Creek Campsite near the track.

Contacts

Te Rua-o-te-moko / Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 3 249 7924
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   fiordlandvc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   Fiordland National Park
Visitor Centre
Lakefront Drive
Te Anau 9600
Postal Address:   PO Box 29
Te Anau 9640
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