Pros & cons
PROS
- Panoramic alpine views from the Milford Track’s high point
- Historic stone cairn and plaque honoring Quintin McKinnon
CONS
- Fully exposed to wind and rapidly changing weather
- Only reachable via a steep climb on a multi-day hike
Overview
Perched on Omanui/McKinnon Pass, this stone cairn with a cross and plaque marks the high point of the Milford Track and commemorates explorer Quintin McKinnon. It’s a natural milestone where most walkers pause—partly for the history, mostly for the knockout Fiordland scenery.
What You’ll See
- The memorial itself: a prominent stone monument with a commemorative plaque.
- Big, glacial country all around—steep fiordland peaks and sweeping views down into the Arthur and Clinton Valleys on clear days.
- A wild, exposed saddle that often sits in cloud or copes with gusty winds, which only adds to the drama when the views open up.
Getting There
You reach the memorial as part of the Milford Track, typically on day three after a steady, sometimes tough climb to the pass. There’s no road access—this is a mid‑track waypoint, not a trailhead. The Milford Track runs on a booking system with limited spots, especially in summer.
Conditions to Expect
Weather up here can turn on a dime: rain, wind, sudden temperature drops—even in summer. The pass is fully exposed with little shelter, so plan on quick photos and a short breather before moving on.
A Bit of History
Quintin McKinnon, with Ernest Mitchell, discovered the pass in 1888, opening the route that became the Milford Track. McKinnon later guided travelers and helped establish the track; the memorial honors his pioneering role.
Wildlife
This is alpine country. While sightings can be hit‑or‑miss on the exposed pass, the wider Milford Track is known for native birds like kea and rock wren—keep your eyes and ears open as you move between the valleys and the high country.
Best Time to Visit
Aim to crest the pass earlier in the day for your best shot at clear views before winds and cloud build. Summer offers longer daylight but also the highest demand for track bookings. For photography, watch for fast‑moving cloud breaks that can light up the valleys.
Where it is
-44.8023, 167.7650Tips for Mackinnon Memorial
- 01Start the climb early to improve your odds of clear summit views.
- 02Pack warm, waterproof layers—the pass is exposed and weather turns fast.
- 03Use the memorial as a quick photo stop, then keep moving to stay warm.
- 04Secure Milford Track bookings well in advance during summer; spots are capped.
Amenities
Near Mackinnon Memorial
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayOmanui / McKinnon PassThe Milford Track’s high point with vast views and a cairnScenic Viewpoint
0.5 mi awayMintaro HutNew Milford Track hut poised below Mackinnon Pass with mountain viewsLodging · Restroom
1.8 mi awaySutherland FallsA 580 m cascade pouring straight from Lake QuillScenic Viewpoint
2 mi awayLake QuillTurquoise alpine tarn perched above thunderous Sutherland Falls
10.6 mi awayMilford Track: Sandfly Point to Giant Gate FallsClassic Milford rainforest stroll to a thundering 30 m waterfallEasy · 3.4 mi · 3 hr
10.6 mi awayGiant Gate Falls TrackEasy Milford Track walk to the swing-bridge view of Giant Gate FallsEasy · 6.8 mi · 3.5 hr
10.7 mi awayGrave–Talbot TrackHistoric, serious alpine crossing linking Milford Road and Hollyford.Challenging · 12 mi · 13.5 hr
10.9 mi awayHomer Tunnel Nature WalkQuick alpine stroll beside Milford Road’s dramatic granite wallsEasy · 0.6 mi · 30 min
