LADY BOWEN FALLS

The stunning Lady Bowen Falls is Milford’s highest waterfall. It plunges 162m from a hanging valley into the head of Milford Sound and provides electricity for the Milford Sound township by feeding a small hydroelectric scheme, as well as being the water source for the settlement.

Named after Diamantina Bowen, the wife of George Bowen the fifth Governor of New Zealand, these spectacular falls are accessible via cruise boat, scenic flight, and an excellent short walk.

The 30 minute return walk to the falls was reopened in 2018 after being closed for 15 years. From the wharf at Milford Sound (Piopiotahi), a purpose-built boat transports walkers 120m across the basin to a small pontoon at the start of the track. From there the track meanders through native bush filled with melodic birdsong, winding its way up to a spectacular viewing area over the falls, with the iconic Mitre Peak visible on the other side of the fiord. This walk is ideal for families.