Lake Gunn Nature Walk
Located in Fiordland National Park and Milford Road/Milford Sound area in the Fiordland region
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
Image gallery
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Nature Walk begins at Cascade Creek campsite Image: Shellie Evans ©
![Cascade Creek campsite marks entrance to the Nature Walk. Image: Shellie Evans ©]( "Cascade Creek campsite marks entrance to the Nature Walk. Image: Shellie Evans ©")
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Lake Gunn Image: Shellie Evans ©
![DOC sign at Lake Gunn. Image: Shellie Evans ©]( "DOC sign at Lake Gunn. Image: Shellie Evans ©")
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.
The walk begins from Cascade Creek car park on the Milford Road, about 78 km from Te Anau.
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.
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.
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 |
| Full office details | |