Hollyford Track

Deep in Fiordland National Park, the Hollyford Track offers a wild, untamed journey through ancient rainforest, alpine meadows, and dramatic river valleys. Unlike many of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Hollyford is a tramper's track—less polished, more remote, and all the more rewarding for those seeking solitude and raw nature. This three-to-four-day adventure leads you past thundering waterfalls, across swing bridges, and alongside the crystal-clear Hollyford River, with a side trip to the hauntingly beautiful Lake Alabaster. The track finishes at Martins Bay, where you can spot penguins and seals on a wild West Coast beach.

Highlights & What to See

• Hidden Falls Track – A short side trip to a spectacular 100-metre waterfall cascading through mossy cliffs.
• Lake Alabaster Hut & Lake Alabaster – A pristine alpine lake surrounded by sheer granite peaks; the hut is a perfect overnight stop.
• Little Homer Falls – A delicate, two-tiered waterfall that frames the forest perfectly.
• Martins Bay & Long Beach – The dramatic final destination where the Hollyford River meets the Tasman Sea, often with fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins.
• Pyke River Swing Bridge – One of New Zealand's longest swing bridges, offering vertiginous views of the turquoise water below.
• Ancient Podocarp Forest – Towering rimu, beech, and silver beech draped in moss and ferns, with abundant birdlife (kaka, fantails, robins).

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow three days/two nights for the standard end-to-end track (from Humboldt Falls car park to Martins Bay). A more relaxed four-day itinerary adds a night at Lake Alabaster Hut and time to explore side trips. The track is one-way, so you'll need to arrange transport from Martins Bay via jetboat (pre-booked) or a return flight from Milford Sound. Fit trampers can complete it in two days, but you'll miss the magical side trails and wildlife watching. Plan for a full day at the end to enjoy Martins Bay and the jetboat ride out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound – A 90-minute drive from the track start; combine with a cruise or kayak tour for the ultimate Fiordland experience.
• Te Anau – The gateway to Fiordland, with glowworm caves, the Kepler Track, and Lake Te Anau.
• Routeburn Track – Another Great Walk that can be combined for a longer tramping holiday.
• Fiordland National Park – Endless hiking, waterfalls, and fiords—spend extra days exploring the park's many short walks and scenic drives.
• Queenstown – A 2.5-hour drive from Te Anau, offering adventure sports, dining, and stunning lake and mountain views.

Please check official sources for current details.