Knobs Flat Waterfall | Short Hike in Milford Sound
This short hike in Milford Sound is a true hidden gem. Knobs Flat Waterfall is a great option for those who have already seen the main stops in Fiordland and are looking for something off the beaten track.
Track Details & Map
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Distance | 1.5 kilometers |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Elevation Gain | 70 meters |
| Time | 30 minutes |
| Family Friendliness | ★★★★☆ |
| Pram Access | No |
| Dog Access | No |
| Coordinates | -44.976977, 168.019305 |
About the Trail
The Knobs Flat parking area is your first left turn after the toilets building. Park along the fence in the back (yes, the one with biohazard signs). There appears to be sewage on the other side of this fence based on the smell, but thankfully you can only smell it in the car park. Anyways, finding the starting point for this walk can be a little confusing so don’t hesitate to pop into the reception building and ask for directions if needed.
From here, walk straight back towards the main Knobs Flat gravel road and go left. Within one minute you’ll pass another small building and then immediately go left again. There’s a tiny wooden sign along the edge of the forest stating “Waterfall Track.” Follow the mossy path into the trees and you’ll be on your way.
The walkway is pretty easy to navigate as long as you follow the orange triangle markers nailed to the trees. Do NOT follow the blue markers. It’s a narrow path with a few rocks and tree roots to step over, but it will always be pretty clear where to go next.
In the first 10 minutes of the walk you’ll come across the one and only water crossing, Kiosk Creek. All natural water sources tend to increase in size after rainfall, so be mindful of the forecast before crossing over. You most likely won’t need to get your feet wet though as there are fallen trees and big rocks to step on.
Walking over Kiosk Creek. No need to get wet feet!
Straight back into the forest you go, where you’ll be entirely shaded in from the densely packed ferns and trees all around you. Speckles of sunlight peek through but not very much, making this a cool escape on a hot day. Because of this, there’s a good chance you’ll find mushrooms growing year round here. They’re pretty to look at but don’t let anyone eat them!
In the last 5 minutes leading up to the waterfall, you’ll begin to hear the sound of water trickling to the right of you. As you start to climb uphill, the trail becomes a little more steep and narrow, but is still a very easy walk. We were really fascinated with how the trees have been utilized and carved into in order to make this walk possible. Rather than moving these massive trees, they cut through and carved steps into them. A few times you’ll have to duck down underneath them too.
Since I was baby wearing, I found the last minute of the walk a bit difficult due to the very steep and muddy section that you nearly have to slide down on your bum. You also have to duck under a tree at the same time. The final viewpoint area for the Knobs Flat Waterfall is quite treacherous and dangerous in my opinion. Bright orange caution tape is wrapped all around the tiny ledge you stand on while overlooking the falls. It felt unstable and the edges dropped straight off towards the rocky river bed, so we didn’t stay for long after taking our pictures.
Knobs Flat Waterfall is about 30 meters tall.
See the beautiful orange caution tape behind us? There’s a cliff there!
Head back the way you came, remembering to follow the orange markers. Overall, the walk should take about a half hour total at a leisure walking pace.
Know Before You Go:
Always check the Milford Road Status for closures before heading out.
The viewpoint area is extremely steep and requires you to stand on a small cliff.
There is cell service on the entire walk and at the trailhead.
No dogs allowed on this trail.
How to Get to Knobs Flat
From Te Anau (50min)
Head North on State Highway 94 towards Milford Sound for 63 kilometers before making a right turn into Knobs Flat. Turn left after the toilet building and pull into the parking area along the fence. Yes, park in front of the fence with bright yellow biohazard signs. The trailhead is just a minute walk up the gravel road and to the left, look for a small sign stating “waterfall walk” that heads into the trees.
Other Things To Do Near Knobs Flat
Eglinton Valley as seen from the Milford-Te Anau highway.
Knobs Flat is the starting point to every drive to Milford Sound. It’s the last fully serviced accommodation before reaching the sound. This rest stop area is equipped with flushing toilets, a public telephone, historical information and a reception area to ask questions. The Eglinton Valley area nearby is filled with picturesque views, walking tracks, bird watching opportunities and several campsites.
Camping: Stay in cute little cabins at Eglinton Valley Camp, or pitch a tent at one of two nearby DOC campsites— Kiosk Creek Campsite or Upper Eglinton Campsite.
Mirror Lakes Walk:
0.3km | 5 minKey Summit Alpine Walk:
7.7km | 420m | 3hrLake Marian Track:
6km | 410m | 2hr 30minHumbolt Falls Lookout Trail:
1.1km | 45m | 20min
Where to Stay in Te Anau
Disclaimer: Please adventure at your own risk. The author of this article is not liable for any injuries or damage that may occur. It is up to the individual to determine their own capabilities and limits, and to thoroughly research before venturing into the great outdoors. Read our full Disclaimer.
