Milford Track 4 day hike

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Q:My husband and I are considering the four day hike in November. I'd like to hear from those who have done this. What is the lodging like? Do we have to bring sleeping bags, etc? What about food? Sounds like it rains a lot so what is the hiking like? Muddy? Good footing? We enjoy hiking but haven't really done backpacking so I'm trying to find out what the logistics are.A:Hi Shera -

I've only walked a portion of the Milford Track as a day hike, so can't help with most of your questions, however, I might be able to help a tiny bit -

The Milford is walked in one direction only (unless you're on the day hike) and the track is accessed via boat from Te Anau Downs.

Yes, you must carry your provisions with you if you plan to walk unguided - there's also a booking system for the huts and spots fill up fast as there are only so many beds available.

There's also a "posh" guided walk - trampers on this excursion only carry day packs - their packs are transported for them, and they spend their nights in private lodging with better services.

Here's a link to the DOC to help get you started:

http://www.doc.govt.nz/templates/trackandwalk.aspx?id=36688

Perhaps Alf will chime in - as I recall he and his family walked the entire track.

Random Tip:Vacation in LuxembourgA:Forgot to mention that the huts are communal - I've seen a few of them -they have bunk beds, a communal kitchen, etc.A:Here's some detailed info on the huts on the Milford Track:

http://www.doc.govt.nz/templates/CustomSummary.aspx?id=36697

A:Thanks. That's very helpful.

More questions for those who have done the full hike ... Since the huts don't have showers I'd like to know if it's possible to wash up in a stream or other water nearby. Any other tips about staying in the huts, carrying your food, etc?

Random Tip:Visit the Belfast Botanic GardensA:The guided hikers have to carry their own packs also. However since food is provided, they only have to carry their lunches for the day along with their clothes for the 4 days, a sleeping sheet and a towel. (There is NO transport service for packs. The last night on the guided hike is spent at the lodge on Milford Sound and you can have a small bag delivered.)

The main differences between guided and independent hikers are meals are provided (and a bar aka refrigerator with beer and wine for sale), huts have hot water and electricity until about 10pm when the generator is cut off for the night, bunkrooms are smaller and there are a limited number of private rooms with ensuite baths. Everyone experiences the same trail conditions, weather and sandflies. It's just that at the end of the day, guided hikers get hot showers and don't have to cook their own meals.

Ultimate Hikes is the only operator for the guided hikes on the Milford. Check out their website (http://www.ultimatehikes.co.nz/) and click on the "virtual walk" to see the track though their pictures always seem to be taken on sunny days.

Independent huts have flush toilets and cold showers. Independent hikers also have to bring all of their own food supplies and cooking and eating utensils (huts have gas burners) and sleeping bags.

SherG - We are strong hikers but decided to do the guided hike instead of going it alone to simplify logistics. Yes it is more costly but it is not "posh" unless having hot water is considered that but we cut costs elsewhere. We would do it again in a heartbeat.