Lake Marian track is one of the most famous lake trails in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. Let us show you every useful information about it before your visit to the site.
What Makes The Lake Marian Track So Special?
Lake Marian Track is at the Darran Mountains’ south end in the Fjordland National Park. This is a short-day hike along the route to Milford Sound. The entire length of the track is around 10 kilometers, including the return trip. So, it takes about 3 hours to finish.
Lake Marian is a lovely cobalt-blue lake sitting in a valley encircled by waterfalls and mountain peaks. It’s merely spectacular – and that alone is what causes it so special.
Also, the hike itself is amazing. First, you’ll cross a river on a suspension bridge. Just a few hundred meters ahead is a platform next to waterfalls.
From that point onwards, it will be the hiking mounting through the woods. Once you turn the last bend, right in front of you is a great valley and Lake Marian.
How To Get There?
From Milford-Te Anau Highway, turn off onto Lower Hollyford Road. The car park is on the left-hand side around 1 km down. Fyi, Lower Hollyford Road is an unsealed route.
Is It Challenging To Hit The Track?
Though being just a short day hike, it’s quite challenging as it’s a very rocky uphill walk.
Both the track’s starting and ending spots are maintained. However, the middle is very rocky and slippery. You should use hiking poles to avoid slipping.
What Should You Bring Along In The Lake Marian Track Trip?
There are things you should bring along for the Lake Marian Track hiking trip. They would be:
- Water, water, and more water. Seriously, we’re not kidding. As we mentioned above, the track is quite steep and slippery so going on it is quite hard. As a result, you’ll find yourself getting dehydrated pretty fast.
- Suitable hiking footwear. Shoes that are waterproof and can handle slippery rocks would be a perfect choice.
- Prepare rain gear ‘cause the weather in Fiordland National Park changes in just a blink of an eye. So, even on the sunniest days, remember to bring your rain jacket.
- Bring light meals. It would be nice when having a snack while being surrounded by spectacular scenery, right?
Can You Camp Here?
At the present time, yes you can. But first, you have to look around the coast to find a flat area to set up a tent. You should stay close to the south coast to avoid an avalanche risk.
There is a toilet at the end of the hiking route by the lake. And as always, take only memories, leave only footprints.
Other Stunning Lake Trails In Fiordland National Park
There are many more beautiful sites besides Lake Marian track. Lake trails in Fiordland National Park are basically divided into three levels, depending on how easy to reach they are.
Easy:
- Milford Shore Walk – A short and easy walk when waiting to get on a sail to discover the Fiordland. It’s only about 1 km in length and is an ideal spot for a picnic.
- Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway – An easy stroll from Glenorchy Waterfront to wetlands with stunning mountain sights and plentiful birdlife.
Moderate:
- Lake Howden via Routeburn Track – An indeed famous trail with a large car park at the Divide. It takes about 2 hours and a half to complete this 6.8-km track.
Hard:
- Routeburne Track – The second most favored Great Walk in New Zealand. The best times to hit this 31.4-km trail are from October to April.
- Gertrude Saddle Route – Specific location to try this 8.2-km trail is near Te Anau, Southland. The trail is available all year round and is gorgeous to see anytime.
- Kepler Track – 18 hours and 24 min is likewise the average time to conquer this 61.2-km circular track. So, as you can see, the Kepler track is 6 times greater than Lake Marian Track in both time and length. From October to May, the Kepler track would be in its finest sceneries.
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