Lake Marian Track Day Walk Te Anau New Zealand

Lake Marian Track Day Walk From Te Anau

History of Lake Marian

It is believed that Lake Marian in Fiordland National Park was formed by a landslide which blocked up the glacial carved valley at the southern end of the Darran Mountains. The lake itself is fed and drained by Marian Creek which further down feeds into the Hollyford River.

Why is it called ‘Lake Marian’?

Surveyor E.H. Wilmot decided to name it after his cousin Marian Little.

How do I get to Lake Marian in Fiordland?

The carpark is located around 87km along the Milford-Te Anau Highway / State Highway 94. Take the Lower Hollyford Road turn-off (unsealed road) and you will see the car park on the left-hand side roughly 1 km along.

How hard is Lake Marian track?

The walk is graded as ‘hard’/’challenging’ as it has a 420m elevation which means it is a consistent climb to get to the Hanging Valley which hosts Lake Marian.

Do bear in mind there are tree roots on the track which can become slippery and the footpath is muddy in wet weather, not to mention loose rocks are prevalent, so do wear appropriate footwear with good grip and ankle support.

How long is it?

6.2km return. Expect to take approximately 3 – 3.5 hours.

Track Description

From the car park you will cross a swing bridge for about 10 mins, just a few hundred meters later you will find a platform right next to waterfalls. This bit is easy enough.

From there, it a steady gradient hiking uphill through the forest for around 400m where you will turn the last bend to be greeted by a stunning turquoise blue-green Lake Marian surrounded by the hanging valley mountains.

Best time to walk the track?

The best times to walk Lake Marian Track is between October and March.

Can I swim in Lake Marian?

Yes you can, however, do bear in mind it’s rather chilly!

Can you camp at Lake Marian?

Some have, but it’s not overly common as there aren’t that many flat spots to do so. If this is in your plans ideally you would want to set up on the south side as avalanches do happen down the lake. It is recommended that you have good weather and backcountry trekking skills if you did!

The other option is to base yourself at awesome luxury High Leys Lodge in Te Anau for the night (information located below) then drive and do day walk instead.

Cost?

Free.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes, please be aware there are New Zealand stinging nettle, you may wish to wear trousers and if kids are walking with you, please do supervise them.
Don’t walk around the lake edge in winter in spring as this is avalanche/snow season.
Dogs are not allowed on this walk.
Bring snacks.
You may wish to bring gloves as you do have to scramble over rocks and tree roots so you may wish to hang on as you go!
There is no mobile phone reception.
Pack for all weather – it’s Fiordland and it’s known for raining but do bring sun block and sand fly spray too.
There is a toilet at the car park, and, also just before Lake Marian itself.
If you are driving, please make sure you have fueled up in Te Anau before you go as there are no petrol stations nearby unless you head to Milford or back to Te Anau itself.

Need somewhere to stay?

Why not stay at luxury High Leys Lodge which is based just outside of Te Anau enroute to Milford Sound, which is the direction you need to go in to get to The Marian Lake car park to do your walk. If you have any further questions, your helpful hosts, Sarah and John will gladly assist.

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