One final post from Fiordland National Park. Lake Marian is an alpine lake nestled right among the mountains along the Old Milford Road heading towards Milford Sound, and is one of the most highly recommended hikes in the park.
The trail is not for the fain of heart. In addition to a 500M elevation gain (about 1,500 feet) it is classified as a “tramping trail,” meaning it is not fully packed down with gravel and runs along the natural course of the ground most of the way. After the first “easy” portion of the trail to the impressive Marian Falls, a sign tells you there will be a “steady climb with some rough sections underfoot” up to the lake.
This is an understatement – the trail actually consists of climbing up up and up over rocks and tree roots for about an hour and a half. You do get to walk through a beautiful temperate rainforest environment though – plus, once you make it to the top it the view makes the whole trip worth it!
We would absolutely recommend this hike if you’re ever in the national park. Or, if you’re not a masochist, enjoy this video where we hike so you don’t have to.
Also – we saw another Kea here!
