Hollyford Track to Hidden Falls

This out-and-back follows the lower Hollyford Track from the end of Lower Hollyford Road to Hidden Falls Hut, with the Hidden Falls swingbridge and waterfall viewpoint along the way. The route is stored once from the trailhead to the hut; return by the same track.

Plan on about 18 km (11.2 miles) return and 4–6 hours. DOC describes this as an Advanced tramping track because of the remote backcountry setting, rough and sometimes muddy surfaces, raised boardwalks, swingbridges, and rapidly changing Fiordland weather, even though the valley route is mostly gradual and non-technical. The track starts with the Humboldt Creek swingbridge, follows the Hollyford River through rainforest and areas prone to flooding, then continues upstream at Hidden Falls Creek. Hidden Falls is reached shortly beyond its swingbridge; Hidden Falls Hut is about 10 minutes beyond the bridge and is the turnaround used for the official 18 km return distance.

The primary access is the designated trailhead at the end of Hollyford Road, reached from Milford Road (SH94) at Marian Corner. The route passes through dense rainforest, swamp and boardwalk sections, riverbank viewpoints, and several swingbridges, with views toward the Darran Mountains. The waterfall viewpoint is an important stop but is a short side spur near the swingbridge, not a separate route to Lake Alabaster.

Allow about two hours to drive from Te Anau to the end of Hollyford Road. This is a remote valley walk: carry warm layers, rain protection, food, water, navigation, and a way to call for help. Frequent rain can make roots, mud, boardwalks, and bridges slippery, and rivers can rise quickly. Check current DOC alerts and weather before departure. Dogs are not allowed on this conservation-land track.