Sutherland Falls is located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, Sutherland Falls drops in three tiers with a total vertical fall of 580 meters. It is not only one of the tallest waterfalls in New Zealand but also ranks among the highest in the world. The waterfall originates from a lake near the mountain summit and plunges down into a remote valley surrounded by dramatic alpine peaks. It can usually be accessed via the Milford Track (a 4–5 hour return hike, moderate difficulty), or viewed from above by helicopter, which offers a stunning perspective of the lake feeding the falls from the mountain top. It can also be seen from a Milford Sound cruise. Its remote location, immense scale, and untouched natural surroundings make it one of the most breathtaking sights on New Zealand’s South Island.
Sutherland Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Sutherland Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Sutherland Falls famous?
Sutherland Falls is one of New Zealand's tallest waterfalls (580m in three tiers) and among the world's highest. It's a highlight of the renowned Milford Track, fed by glacial Lake Quill, and named after explorer Donald Sutherland who claimed its discovery in 1880.
Can you swim at Sutherland Falls?
No. Sutherland Falls is remote, accessed via multi-day Milford Track; not a swimming destination. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Sutherland Falls?
Dogs are not permitted in Fiordland National Park or on the Milford Track. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Sutherland Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Milford Track requires hut bookings (NZD ~$200+ per night) and Great Walk passes during peak season; backcountry hut passes off-season. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Sutherland Falls?
There is no direct vehicle access to Sutherland Falls. The falls are reached via the Milford Track, a multi-day hike starting from Glade Wharf (boat access from Te Anau Downs). Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Sutherland Falls?
Approximately 90-minute return detour from Quintin Lodge on Day 3 of the Milford Track (roughly 3 km return side trip). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Sutherland Falls hike difficulty
Moderate to Hard. The side trip involves steep sections and can be slippery; the Milford Track itself is a challenging multi-day hike. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Sutherland Falls?
November to April (summer/autumn) when the Milford Track is open and weather is most stable, though the falls are most dramatic after rain. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Sutherland Falls
From Quintin Lodge on the Milford Track, take the signposted side track that climbs steeply through forest. The path can be muddy and slippery, with tree roots and rocks. The track leads to viewpoints of the falls' three tiers cascading from Lake Quill above. Return the same way to Quintin Lodge.
Attractions near Sutherland Falls
- •Milford Track — one of New Zealand's Great Walks, a 53.5 km multi-day hike through valleys and passes
- •Lake Quill — glacial lake above Sutherland Falls, source of the waterfall's three-tiered cascade
- •Mackinnon Pass — alpine pass on the Milford Track offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks
- •Milford Sound / Piopiotahi — iconic fiord with towering cliffs and waterfalls, accessible by road
- •Quintin Lodge — historic hut on the Milford Track near Sutherland Falls, overnight stop for hikers
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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