Many people who visit Milford Sound are probably familiar with Bowen Falls, since it's right next to the wharf and you can see it as soon as the cruise departs.
Bowen Falls
2 photos
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
162m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Bowen Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Bowen Falls famous?
Bowen Falls is one of Milford Sound's most prominent permanent waterfalls, plunging 162 meters into the fiord and visible from most cruise boats. Named after John Bowen, captain of the ship Acheron during the 1851 survey of the sound, it's a dramatic example of the hanging valleys created by glacial erosion that make Fiordland famous.
Can you swim at Bowen Falls?
No — swimming is not permitted at Bowen Falls due to safety concerns and cold water temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Bowen Falls?
Dogs are not permitted on trails in Fiordland National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Bowen Falls free? Do you need a permit?
No fee to walk the Bowen Falls track, though accessing Milford Sound by road may require parking fees at the village. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Bowen Falls?
Parking is available at the Milford Sound village near the cruise terminal. From there, the Bowen Falls track begins near the boat harbour. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Bowen Falls?
Approximately 2.6 km return from Milford Sound village to the base of Bowen Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Bowen Falls hike difficulty
Moderate — the track includes uneven forest terrain, some steep sections, and can be slippery when wet. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Bowen Falls?
October to April (spring to autumn) offers the best weather and accessibility, though the waterfall flows year-round and can be more dramatic after rain. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Bowen Falls
The track starts near the Milford Sound boat harbour and follows a bush-clad path through native forest. The trail climbs gradually with some steep sections and tree roots. It leads to a viewing platform at the base of the falls where you can feel the spray. The track can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
Attractions near Bowen Falls
- •Milford Sound/Piopiotahi — iconic fiord with dramatic cliffs, cruise tours, and wildlife viewing
- •Lady Bowen Falls — sister waterfall visible from Milford Sound cruises
- •Stirling Falls — 151m waterfall in Milford Sound, accessible by boat
- •The Chasm — short walk to unique rock formations carved by the Cleddau River
- •Mitre Peak — Milford Sound's iconic 1,692m mountain rising from the water
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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