Best Hikes in Southland

Southland is a region where untamed wilderness and unforgettable trails come together. Here, every path feels like it leads into another world — from the deep valleys of Fiordland to the wild southern coastline and the peaceful tracks of Rakiura – Stewart Island. It’s a place where you can walk beside thundering waterfalls, climb to windswept ridgelines or alternatively follow quiet forest tracks alive with birdsong.

What makes the best hikes in Southland so special is the variety. In just one region you’ll find three of New Zealand’s Great Walks. For instance, legendary multi-day adventures such as the Milford, Kepler and Rakiura Tracks draw hikers from across the globe. In addition, there are short, family-friendly walks to waterfalls, beaches and ancient forests. Whether you’re chasing big backcountry challenges or, instead, looking for a gentle taste of Fiordland’s beauty, Southland offers hikes that create lasting memories.

👉 If you’re keen to go further, check out our full guide to Aotearoa’s most breathtaking hikes.

🥾 Milford Track – “The Finest Walk in the World”

• Distance: 54 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Duration: 4 days
• Location: Te Anau Downs to Milford Sound, Fiordland

The Milford Track has been called the finest walk in the world for good reason. Starting with a boat ride across Lake Te Anau, the journey leads you through ancient beech forests, across swing bridges, past crystal-clear rivers and over alpine passes. Each day brings new wonders from the sheer cliffs of Mackinnon Pass to the towering Sutherland Falls, one of New Zealand’s highest waterfalls. The track ends at Milford Sound, where dramatic cliffs rise from the fiord and the sense of achievement is unforgettable.

🥾 Kepler Track

• Distance: 59 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Duration: 4 days
• Location: Te Anau Downs to Milford Sound, Fiordland

The Kepler Track was purpose-built to show off the best of Fiordland and it doesn’t disappoint. From the lake edge of Te Anau, the track climbs steadily through lush beech forest to exposed alpine ridgelines with panoramic views across Fiordland’s mountains and lakes. The loop continues through tussock meadows, cascading waterfalls and peaceful valleys. The huts are well placed for incredible sunrises and sunsets and for those not tackling the full loop, day hikes to Luxmore Hut or along the lakeside are equally rewarding.

🥾 Hump Ridge Track

• Distance: 58 km
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 3 days
• Location: Tuatapere, Fiordland

Southland’s own multi-day adventure, the Hump Ridge Track takes you deep into a corner of Fiordland few others see. The track winds through ancient podocarp forest, climbs high onto a ridge with sweeping views across Te Waewae Bay and the Southern Ocean and passes historic viaducts left from the logging days. At night you’ll stay in unique backcountry lodges with creature comforts, making this track a mix of rugged wilderness and southern hospitality.

🥾 Rakiura Track – Stewart Island

• Distance: 38 km loop
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 2-3 days
• Location: Oban, Stewart Island

On Rakiura – Stewart Island, the Rakiura Track is one of New Zealand’s most gentle Great Walks, but it’s no less magical. Following sandy bays, tidal inlets and lush coastal forest, it feels like a step back in time. The island’s birdlife is a major highlight with kaka, tūī and kererū common along the track — and it’s one of the best places in New Zealand to spot a kiwi in the wild.

🥾 Routeburn Track (Southland Section)

• Distance: 32 km (full track) | Key Summit 3 hrs return
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2–3 days (or half-day for Key Summit)
• Location: The Divide, Fiordland

Although the Routeburn Track links both Otago and Southland, the section from The Divide to Lake Mackenzie Hut is firmly within Southland and is one of the most stunning day or overnight hikes you’ll ever do. The track climbs gradually through beech forest to alpine lakes and hanging valleys, with towering peaks all around. Even a short walk to Key Summit (about 3 hours return) rewards you with breathtaking 360° views over Fiordland’s mountains and valleys.

🌿 Shorter Walks in Southland

If time isn’t on your side, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Southland’s landscapes without committing to a multi-day hike. These shorter trails give you a taste of the region’s beauty in just an hour or two:

• Lake Gunn Nature Walk (Fiordland) – 45-minute loop through magical moss-draped forest with mountain reflections in the lake.
• McLean Falls (Catlins) – 40 minutes return, a gentle walk through bush to one of the South Island’s most stunning waterfalls.
• Curio Bay Walk (Catlins) – A short coastal stroll where you might see dolphins, seals or even yellow-eyed penguins.
• Matai Falls & Horseshoe Falls (Catlins) – 30–40 minutes return, easy tracks leading to two lovely forest waterfalls.
• Dome Forest Walk (near Tuatapere) – 1–2 hours return, a forested climb that rewards you with views over Te Waewae Bay and Fiordland.
• Anderson Park (Invercargill) – Stroll the gardens and art gallery grounds in 30 minutes, a peaceful escape within the city.

✨ Final Thoughts on the Best Hikes in Southland

The best hikes in Southland capture everything that makes Aotearoa’s Deep South so special — raw wilderness, dramatic landscapes and moments of pure stillness. For example, the world-famous Milford Track showcases alpine passes and waterfalls, while the rugged Hump Ridge offers sweeping coastal views. In contrast, the gentler Rakiura Track highlights the island’s birdlife and peaceful bays. If time is limited, Southland’s shorter walks to waterfalls, coastal lookouts and forest glades are also an easy way to connect with nature.

Before you hit the trail, it’s always a good idea to check the DOC (Department of Conservation) website. You’ll find important updates on track conditions, weather alerts and any closures or hazards. It’s also where you can book huts or campsites on popular multi-day hikes. Checking in first helps you stay safe, pack what you need and enjoy your adventure with confidence especially in Aotearoa’s wild and changeable backcountry.

👉 For more practical tips, read our Essential Hiking Tips for New Zealand before you set off.

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