Hike to Lake Marian

New Zealand › Lake Marian Trailhead

Save List Review

60 Saves

Lake Marian is and extremely beautiful alpine lake a great hike on the drive into Milford Sound. If you hike this on a warm day, it's not a bad place to go for a (very cold) swim.

The track starts soon after the turnoff onto Hollyford Rd off the Milford Highway. The track begins with a bridge crossing over a river and then soon reached Marian Falls. From the falls the trail climbs steeply through forest until the lake. The lake is a beautiful place to spend several hours and then return via the same track. The track is covered in roots and rocks and requires care as to avoid falling.

A quicker version of the hike would be a quick 20 minute walk to the falls.

Pack List

Sturdy hiking boots
Water
Snacks
Camera
Bathing suit (if you would like to swim in the lake)
Warm clothing
Bug spray

Please respect the places you find on The Outbound.

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Be aware of local regulations and don't damage these amazing places for the sake of a photograph. Learn More

Activities:

Chillin, Photography, Swimming, Hiking

Skill Level:

Intermediate

Season:

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Trail Type:

Out-and-Back

Distance:

3 Miles

Elev. Gain:

1312.3 Feet

Rating:

Features:

Easy Parking

Forest

Lake

Scenic

Waterfall

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How to Get There

Get driving directions

Reviews

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Tiffany Young Follow

19 days ago

Hike to Lake Marian

One of my favorite short hikes ever!

After we kayaked the Milford Sound, we were talking to a worker at the hostel we were staying at for short hike recommendations... and boy, was this a perfect suggestion! From elevation gains, to climbing up tree roots, and amazing views, the opening to Lake Marian was absolutely climatic! My friends and I were in awe and lucky had the place to ourselves. We tired to go swimming. It was too cold. Lake Marian has definitely not seen the last of me!

19 days ago

Sara Kurth Follow

7 months ago

Hike to Lake Marian

Everything New Zealand Can Offer In A Single Hike

Lake Marian was an afterthought addition to my New Zealand hike itinerary. Very glad it was added in since it is now one of my favorite hikes ever. A lush green forest opening up into an alpine lake- everything you'd want - and expect - from New Zealand all wrapped up into one.

7 months ago

Added by Lauren Schusterman

College student at UCLA. Born and raised in Boulder, CO. In love with the outdoors and all it has to offer.

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