New Zealand · Milford Sound, South Island
Bowen Falls
Named for the wife of an early New Zealand governor, this permanent falls plunges directly into Milford Sound beside the small settlement, visible both from cruise boats and a short walking trail from the visitor area. Its consistent year-round flow makes it, along with Stirling Falls, one of only two dependable waterfalls on the fiord.
Named for the wife of an early New Zealand governor, this permanent falls plunges directly into Milford Sound beside the small settlement, visible both from cruise boats and a short walking trail from the visitor area. Its consistent year-round flow makes it, along with Stirling Falls, one of only two dependable waterfalls on the fiord.
Bowen Falls drops 162 metres (532 ft) on the Bowen River, inside Fiordland National Park. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Milford Sound, with MFN the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy.
Runs year-round; the other of Milford Sound's two permanent waterfalls, fullest after rain.
What you can do here
Boat cruises
The classic approach: come at the falls from the water, usually at sunset, usually with a drink.
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Runs year-round; the other of Milford Sound's two permanent waterfalls, fullest after rain.
Entry: Free from lookout; included in cruise tickets
Getting there
- Base townMilford Sound
- AirportMFN
- CountryNew Zealand
- RegionMilford Sound, South Island, Oceania
- AccessEasy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint
On the map
-44.6725, 167.9231
Quick answers
How tall is Bowen Falls?
Bowen Falls drops 162 metres (532 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Bowen River.
When is the best time to visit Bowen Falls?
Peak flow is January to March and October to December. Runs year-round; the other of Milford Sound's two permanent waterfalls, fullest after rain.
What can you do at Bowen Falls?
Beyond the viewpoints: boat cruises, hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint.
How do you get to Bowen Falls?
The usual base is Milford Sound, and the closest airport is MFN. A short walk or roadside viewpoint from there. Free from lookout; included in cruise tickets.
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