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Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Lady Bowen Falls is the tallest and most spectacular highest Milford Sound waterfall.Named after Lady Diamantina Bowen, the wife of a former governor of New Zealand, the falls epitomize nature’s raw elegance. Surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs, Lady Bowen Falls offers a serene yet awe-inspiring experience, making it a must-visit spot for adventurers and nature lovers exploring Milford Sound.
Location
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commos
Lady Bowen Falls is located in Milford Sound, a stunning fiord within New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. Situated in the southwestern corner of the South Island, this highest Milford Sound waterfall cascades from the towering cliffs into the serene waters of the sound. Accessible by boat or a short ferry ride from Milford Sound’s terminal. This prime location offers an immersive experience in one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural settings.
How To Reach
Photo: Anderson Aguirre / Wiimedia Commons
By Road: Drive along the scenic Milford Road (SH 94) from Te Anau to Milford Sound, a journey of around 2 hours. Once at Milford Sound, take a ferry or cruise to reach Lady Bowen Falls, as it’s accessible only by water.
By Air: Take a scenic flight from Queenstown or Te Anau to Milford Sound Airport. From there, head to the visitor terminal for a boat or cruise ride to the falls.
By Rail: While there’s no direct rail connection to Milford Sound, you can take the TranzAlpine train to Queenstown. From Queenstown, continue your journey by road or air to reach Milford Sound and Lady Bowen Falls.
Places To Visit In And Around Highest Milford Sound Waterfall
1. The Chasm Walk
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located along the Milford Sound Highway, The Chasm is a fascinating natural site where cascading waterfalls have carved intricate patterns into the rocks over thousands of years. This easy, 20-minute walk through a lush beech forest leads to viewing platforms that offer dramatic perspectives on the powerful waters as they rush through the rock formations below. Visitors are often captivated by the sculpted rocks and the deep, swirling pools, making it a must-see stop on the way to Milford Sound. The Chasm is ideal for nature photography and offers a unique look at Fiordland’s geologic history.
Location: 9 km before Milford Sound, on Milford Sound Highway
Best Time To Visit: Year-round, especially after rain for full waterfall impact
2. Humboldt Falls
Photo: Sharon Mollerus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Set within the tranquil Hollyford Valley, Humboldt Falls is a breathtaking 275-meter waterfall that cascades down in three distinct tiers, surrounded by dense native forest. Accessible via a short, well-maintained trail, the hike to Humboldt Falls is suitable for most visitors and takes around 30 minutes round trip. The falls are framed by lush greenery and are especially impressive after rainfall, when the water volume increases. The peaceful setting and towering cascades make Humboldt Falls a serene escape, providing both stunning scenery and a great opportunity to experience the remote beauty of Fiordland.
Location: Hollyford Valley, Fiordland National Park
Best Time To Visit: All seasons, with spring offering particularly lush scenery
3. Lake Marian
Photo: Pseudopanax / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Marian is a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by towering alpine mountains in Fiordland National Park. The 3-hour return hike to the lake is moderately challenging, featuring a forested path, some rocky areas, and several steep sections. Once at the lake, visitors are rewarded with expansive views of turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. The serene setting, coupled with the rugged beauty of the Fiordland wilderness, makes Lake Marian a popular choice for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Location: Near the Hollyford Road turnoff, Fiordland National Park
Best Time To Visit: October to April for milder weather and clearer trails
4. Sutherland Falls
Photo: Ksenia Druzhkina / Wikimedia Commons
Sutherland Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New Zealand, plunging 580 meters over three spectacular drops. Located along the famous Milford Track, this waterfall is accessible through a multi-day trek or scenic flight. The trail provides close-up views of the falls amidst Fiordland’s awe-inspiring landscapes, and a journey here is considered one of New Zealand’s most iconic wilderness experiences. Hikers who take on the Milford Track will encounter lush valleys, clear rivers, and other stunning vistas en route.
Location: Milford Track, Fiordland National Park
Best Time To Visit: December to February for best trail conditions
5. Mitre Peak
Photo: Bernard Spragg / Wikimedia Commons
Standing at an impressive 1,692 meters, Mitre Peak is a distinctive landmark and one of the most photographed mountains in Milford Sound. The peak gets its name from its unique shape, resembling a bishop’s mitre. Although climbing to the top is an advanced endeavor for experienced mountaineers, Mitre Peak can be admired from ground level or on a boat cruise, which offers excellent vantage points for appreciating its scale.
Location: Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park
Best Time To Visit: Year-round for sightseeing
Where To Stay
Photo: hshotels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodations near the highest Milford Sound waterfall are limited, with Milford Sound Lodge being one of the primary options. This eco-lodge offers a range of stays from riverside chalets to dormitory-style bunk beds, providing easy access to Milford Sound’s scenic spots and a warm, rustic atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The nearby town of Te Anau, about a two-hour drive from Milford Sound, offers a wider selection of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels and campsites. Options in Te Anau, like Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas and Fiordland Lakeview Motel, are ideal for those who prefer more amenities or a quieter setting.
Where To Eat
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dining options within Milford Sound are quite limited, with the main choice being Milford Sound Lodge’s onsite cafe, Pio Pio Restaurant, which offers locally sourced ingredients and hearty dishes. Here, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with an emphasis on seasonal and regional produce. For more dining variety, head to Te Anau, where you’ll find a larger selection of restaurants and cafes. Popular spots in Te Anau include Redcliff Cafe, known for its New Zealand-inspired dishes, and Sandfly Cafe, a cozy spot for casual breakfasts and coffee.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit this highest Milford Sound waterfall depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. The summer months (December to February) bring milder temperatures and less frequent rain, making it ideal for hiking, kayaking, and scenic boat cruises. However, this season also sees larger crowds. Winter (June to August) offers a serene experience with fewer tourists, mist-covered mountains, and occasional snow-capped peaks, though it’s colder and rainier.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Lady Bowen Falls in Milford Sound varies depending on your starting point and mode of travel. A self-drive from Te Anau, including fuel and parking, costs around NZD 100–150. Scenic flights or cruises range from NZD 300–500 per person. If opting for guided tours, prices typically start at NZD 200. Accommodation and meals may add another NZD 150–300, depending on your preferences.
Tips For Travellers
- Prepare for Rain: Milford Sound experiences high rainfall year-round, so bring waterproof gear to stay dry and comfortable.
- Book Activities in Advance: Popular activities like cruises and scenic flights can fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
- Stay Overnight Nearby: To experience the sound at different times of day, consider an overnight stay at Milford Sound Lodge or Te Anau.
- Start Early: Road trips can be lengthy, so begin early to allow for stops along the way to enjoy scenic spots like The Chasm.
- Bring a Camera: Milford Sound offers plenty of breathtaking vistas and wildlife sightings, so pack a camera to capture the beauty.
This highest Milford Sound waterfall offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into New Zealand’s natural beauty, with dramatic cascades, tranquil lakes, and stunning mountain vistas. From easy scenic walks to challenging hikes, this destination caters to all kinds of adventurers, rewarding each with unforgettable landscapes. Visiting Milford Sound promises a unique experience every season, with vibrant greenery in spring, powerful waterfalls after rains, and serene snow-capped peaks in winter. Book your trip with TripXL for a memorable encounter with some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery.
Cover Photo: Arthur Hinton / Wikimedia Commons
