Lake Gunn Nature Walk
An easy loop through moss-covered red beech forest to Lake Gunn views and productive native-bird habitat.
Route overview
Lake Gunn Nature Walk in Fiordland, South Island / Te Waipounamu.
The track forms a compact circuit through sheltered Eglinton Valley forest. Interpretation panels explain the landscape, and a short side path reaches a stony beach with views across Lake Gunn to the surrounding mountains. The route is especially valuable for birdwatching, with tomtits, riflemen and other forest species regularly present.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand / Aotearoa
- Region
- Fiordland, South Island / Te Waipounamu
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Typical duration
- about 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- year-round when road and surface conditions permit
- Trail type
- Loop
Safety context
DOC describes the route as flat and suitable for all fitness levels, but Fiordland rain can make roots and forest tread slippery. Mountain weather changes quickly. The nearby Cascade Creek campsite can be busy and its booking rules do not affect ordinary day-walk access. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
DOC describes the route as flat and suitable for all fitness levels, but Fiordland rain can make roots and forest tread slippery. Mountain weather changes quickly. The nearby Cascade Creek campsite can be busy and its booking rules do not affect ordinary day-walk access.
Highlights
`new-zealand`, `fiordland`, `lake-gunn`, `beech-forest`, `birdwatching`, `easy-loop`, `family-friendly`, `milford-road
Why find a buddy
Well suited to families, birders and new hiking partners. A companion adds value for wildlife spotting and supervision at the stony shoreline.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.