Milford Sound & Key Summit

Hey people,

Once again I warmly welcome you and am happy that you will accompany me on another of my adventures.

This time I started off on flat terrain and then went steeply through the mountains. I visited Milford Sound, probably the most famous fjord in New Zealand. The route to this place alone is really an experience and there is sooooo much to see. It had rained the day before and so, in addition to the permanent waterfalls, there were also a few others that only appear and flow differently each time it rains or has rained before.

When I arrived in Milford, I walked for an hour along the end of the fjord and enjoyed the view. There is also a short track here that explains a lot about the flora and fauna of the fjords.

After an hour on the fjord, we went up to the beginning and end of the Routeburn Track. A multi-day hike that is considered one of the most beautiful in New Zealand and if the track continues as I experienced it, then I will have to reconsider multi-day hikes. There are actually quite a few of them in New Zealand. At the moment, however, I really like my day hikes and I don't think that will change in the next few weeks. Let's see how that develops - perhaps if I find the right people to go with.

The track through the forest and jungle was simply mystical and the fog and the remaining clouds that were lit by the sun created a really special atmosphere. After the tree line, we went on the Key Summit Nature Walk, which is lined with a few ponds and where there are always unbelievably good views. When the weather is perfect, the mountain peaks are reflected in the mini lakes. Unfortunately, a few clouds sneaked in front of the peaks and I didn't have a perfect view of the peaks. Well, I can't always have perfect conditions. And that's complaining at a high level!

After the Key Summit I made a quick detour to Lake Howden. There was a lot of water here and the shore was a little flooded.

After my hike I made my way back and made two more stops. Once at the Mirror Lakes and once in Te Anau, because the sunset was really beautiful. I was also able to see the entire 360 degree mountain range on the way back. Unfortunately I didn't find a suitable photo spot but let me tell you: WOW!

The next day I booked a boat tour on Milford Sound, so that evening I packed my backpack and packed about a million snacks and layers for all weather conditions. And so far: I ate all the snacks and needed all the layers!

Summit best regards,
Britta