Sutherland Falls Milford Sound, South Island, New Zealand
By
DeeWhoa on 22-Oct-09. Waypoint GC205EF
Cache Details
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Logs
Walking the Milford Track again after 14 years after booking myself a spot by accident as I was showing my daughter that yes, the website is working . Almost as wet as then, with a slightly different pattern. The first day was fine, and then it rained the remaining three, with the second day being the worst. Totally worth it though!! Unfortunately my phone is no longer waterproof as it is missing all buttons on the side, and it does not like the rain. I ended up with more photos from day one that the remaining three days in total! I am glad I use a GPS for geocaching rather than the phone... Apparently two groups were turned around from Mintaro Hut last week as it was too unsafe to cross the pass due to the amount of rain... An amazing spot to revisit!! Very different though - last time it was bucketing on the day, so poor visibility but less water. This time, possibly due to the unbelievable amount of rain last week, there was so much water everywhere! The top and next down steps were spewing water like a geyser!! I think it would have been amazing to fly up in a helicopter for a better view! My phone particularly disliked the water, and it went on strike! I was also slightly concerned about the short daylight hours and thought that a search party will be sent to look for me. I did get to the hut after sunset, but I was not the last one to arrive! Thank you for a great earthcache!!
Despite the lack of rain for a while, there is still a huge amount of water coming down and it amazes me that the rock at the bottom is still there despite the force of water constantly hitting it. Unlike a previous time here where I ventured behind the falls, today I stayed dry and made my observations while watching others take the plunge in the cold water. What an awesome place to be!
Answers sent.
It turned out to be long day (7:50am to 6:15 pm including stops) but this sidetrip was definitely worth it. After a cup of tea at the shelter we set off (the guided walks company kindly provide a zip with boiling water, teabags, coffee and milk powder in the shelter). Ooh, not more uphill? That last 580m from the sign really demonstrates the immense height of the waterfall! Quite a few of our OTMC group were drying off after a dip, and two people had dashed back to find a camera dropped behind the falls and have another swim. Very handy, because he could tell me exactly how deep it was under the falls (low water and he had checked there was no debris coming down with the water for safety). We stood at the edge of the spray on the grass- no parkas needed today, very dry spell. What an amazing place to be!
It turned out to be long day (7:50am to 6:15 pm including stops) but this sidetrip was definitely worth it. After a cup of tea at the shelter we set off (the guided walks company kindly provide a zip with boiling water, teabags, coffee and milk powder in the shelter). Ooh, not more uphill? That last 580m from the sign really demonstrates the immense height of the waterfall! Quite a few of our OTMC group were drying off after a dip, and two people had dashed back to find a camera dropped behind the falls and have another swim. Very handy, because he could tell me exactly how deep it was under the falls (low water and he had checked there was no debris coming down with the water for safety). We stood at the edge of the spray on the grass- no parkas needed today, very dry spell. What an amazing place to be!
Found on a day of storms and flooding with a muggle friend who graciously took the obligatory Earthcache photo for me (uploaded upon successful receipt of said photo, coverage is non-existent here.) TFTC here in my current backyard.
Merry Christmas and Greetings from Australia!
At this point of the walk we were sore and the legs were tired and knowing that we still had an hour to walk to our hut I was almost convinced on skipping Sutherland Falls but man am I glad we didn't.
We were resting in the day shelter and a few fellow hikers were coming back from the falls and suggested we just had to go. So leaving the packs behind we set off down the trail. The rain had finally stopped and looked like it had cleared up so we left the rain gear behind too.
Wow! The views of the waterfall from the bridge are incredible and it just gets even better when you get right up close. The power and wind just reverberates through you!
After taking a few pictures we set off and thought it was funny that we were still getting wet (we should have been far enough away from the falls at this point) only to realise the rain had come back again..
Perfect spot for an EarthCache, thanks for making the effort to put one here.
I will send the answers through as soon as I can get some solid internet later tonight!
Fav Pt added for the Milford Experience and the incredible waterfall!
At this point of the walk we were sore and the legs were tired and knowing that we still had an hour to walk to our hut I was almost convinced on skipping Sutherland Falls but man am I glad we didn't.
We were resting in the day shelter and a few fellow hikers were coming back from the falls and suggested we just had to go. So leaving the packs behind we set off down the trail. The rain had finally stopped and looked like it had cleared up so we left the rain gear behind too.
Wow! The views of the waterfall from the bridge are incredible and it just gets even better when you get right up close. The power and wind just reverberates through you!
After taking a few pictures we set off and thought it was funny that we were still getting wet (we should have been far enough away from the falls at this point) only to realise the rain had come back again..
Perfect spot for an EarthCache, thanks for making the effort to put one here.
I will send the answers through as soon as I can get some solid internet later tonight!
Fav Pt added for the Milford Experience and the incredible waterfall!
Gadzooks! How did i manage to miss this earthcache!
Backdating to when i sent off some answers which were still several weeks after when i was at sutherland falls, a sidetrip on my milford track walk.
In fact, Sutherland falls was gobsmackingly beautiful. Three of the four days of my walk were in terrible rainy weather, making the surrounding valley and falls especially epic.
I actually struggled to get close to the base of the falls due to the sheer volume of water cascading down the three drops.
Such an impressive waterfall.
This is the sixth time i've ever come across this statistical combination as well.
Thank you DeeWhoa for choosing to create an earthcache in this special place, and educating me at the same time.
Backdating to when i sent off some answers which were still several weeks after when i was at sutherland falls, a sidetrip on my milford track walk.
In fact, Sutherland falls was gobsmackingly beautiful. Three of the four days of my walk were in terrible rainy weather, making the surrounding valley and falls especially epic.
I actually struggled to get close to the base of the falls due to the sheer volume of water cascading down the three drops.
Such an impressive waterfall.
This is the sixth time i've ever come across this statistical combination as well.
Thank you DeeWhoa for choosing to create an earthcache in this special place, and educating me at the same time.
Answers sent. As we had two days of rain the falls were amazing. So powerful it was scarey getting near them. Had a fantastic time doing the Milford track.
The night before I had boasted that I hadn't made any detours for waterfalls since Iceland. But at the junction it had just stopped raining and it was still too early for cabin fever. In addition, I only now saw that the Sutherland Falls are traded as the highest waterfall in New Zealand. I read about the controversy later. It was spectacular and I was able to laugh when my fellow hikers later slandered me about my inconsistency.
Day #3 of an amazing Milford hike..couldnt have asked for better weather and a wee detour without the pack was well worth it...awesome spot deserves a fav...
Day 3 of this Milford Track walk 
Its been a long day, we have walked 16km, and the clock is ticking, as we need to arrive/leave Quintin lodge for the falls by a certain time, or we won't be able to visit!
Well it was a little harder to walk too than I was expecting, with some uphill, uneven terrain and tree roots. This side trip is another 2.7km (5.4km return) or 1.5 hours return from Quintin Lodge.
But so worth the visit.
Perhaps not the best light, but the falls are amazing!
Many pictures taken, and just to stand there and admire what nature has created.
Answers have been sent to the CO, I hope they meet your logging requirements.
Thanks for creating this Earthcache, and for bringing us here.
Its been a long day, we have walked 16km, and the clock is ticking, as we need to arrive/leave Quintin lodge for the falls by a certain time, or we won't be able to visit!
Well it was a little harder to walk too than I was expecting, with some uphill, uneven terrain and tree roots. This side trip is another 2.7km (5.4km return) or 1.5 hours return from Quintin Lodge.
But so worth the visit.
Perhaps not the best light, but the falls are amazing!
Many pictures taken, and just to stand there and admire what nature has created.
Answers have been sent to the CO, I hope they meet your logging requirements.
Thanks for creating this Earthcache, and for bringing us here.
#941 a spectacular sight, having just experienced 2 days of solid rain. 3 times the January rainfall happened in those two days, so we unfortunately had to stay an extra night in Clinton Hut, but it meant we could see these falls in its glory. Just reading about how Sutherland's original track to the falls took 4 days, makes me very thankful for the explorers and DOC too. Thanks for the earthcache.
We got lucky getting tickets for New Year on this trail. The crew on dumpling hut did rock celebrating new year at 9pm (milford new year time). It was a long day with a spectacular site trip to the waterfalls. Glad it rained a lot for a stunning display, but we couldn't get to close either sadly. Glad there as hot tea provided by the private lodge once we came back. TFTC
Today we came over McKinnon Pass in the mist and made our way down to Quinton Shelter where we dropped our packs and wandered up the valley to the waterfall. It was a long haul down from the pass but I am glad we dragged up the extra energy required to come and see the falls. A few of the group we were with were unable to get here.
Anyway, upon arrival at the falls we sorted out our answers then took a few photos. With all the dry weather lately the falls were probably not at their most spectacular but they were still pounding out plenty of water, aided by a small amount of rain yesterday.
As it was getting late in the day and still almost 2 hours to the hut, we reluctantly left the falls and headed on.
Have just sent through the answers to this earthcache.
tftec
Anyway, upon arrival at the falls we sorted out our answers then took a few photos. With all the dry weather lately the falls were probably not at their most spectacular but they were still pounding out plenty of water, aided by a small amount of rain yesterday.
As it was getting late in the day and still almost 2 hours to the hut, we reluctantly left the falls and headed on.
Have just sent through the answers to this earthcache.
tftec
Found with Madcow2 and Mumandme. Answers sent to CO. What an amazing place to visit. We even enjoyed a very quick cold dip in the pool!
Found with madcow2 and victoriousone. Amazing place - thanks for bringing us here.
Found while walking the Milford track in near perfect weather, thanks for bringing us here, answers sent to the C.O.
Day 3 of our "Great Walk" and our longest day with this "must do" side trip.
Perfect weather after two nights of rain made for the falls to be at their best along with the myriad of falls from every rock face on our walk today.
Glad we took our rain coats. We still couldn't get terribly close. There is a heck of a lot of water crashing down.
Answers sent to the CO.
TFTEC
Perfect weather after two nights of rain made for the falls to be at their best along with the myriad of falls from every rock face on our walk today.
Glad we took our rain coats. We still couldn't get terribly close. There is a heck of a lot of water crashing down.
Answers sent to the CO.
TFTEC
#3,647: Falling Smiley!
I came to this one on our walk of the Milford Track. We got lucky with the weather, with only half a day of rain, and otherwise lots of sun. A completely unforgettable trip. We dropped our packs at the shelter, and had a cuppa, before setting out for the falls. Emailed the answers to the CO.
TFTEC!!
I came to this one on our walk of the Milford Track. We got lucky with the weather, with only half a day of rain, and otherwise lots of sun. A completely unforgettable trip. We dropped our packs at the shelter, and had a cuppa, before setting out for the falls. Emailed the answers to the CO.
TFTEC!!
Logging as found with answers sent to CO though this was a treck and a half and probably not answered as well as many will be able to.
A four day wet hike on the track with this day by far the worst. Almost blown off at the Mackinnon Pass and machine gunned with horizontal hail as struggled to the shelter near the top to make a hot drink and wring out clothes as already soaked to the skin. As was everyone else in our 38 strong group doing the trek. I was the only one with dry feet! Struggled round with no views due to clouds etc but finally got out of the wind for the descent down the emergency track and wearily arrived at Quintin hut for much needed hot sweet coffee free of charge. Dumped the pack and laughed at the note to take a raincoat with us on the walk to the falls due to the force of the spray. Wide concrete steps up the climb with water cascading down them, just like walking up a waterfall. Most of the group stopped at the second swing bridge which probably offers the best views - only a short hike for any not wanting to go the whole way and well worth it.
Needed to go further to get the cache though and the track now was wide and level so easy I thought. Apart from two streams which were knee deep and there go my dry feet for good now. Falls were getting louder, not heard such a roar since I once drove under Concorde taking off from Heathrow many moons ago.
Got to the Falls Sign and up a little rise to see the bottom. The rest was just a mass of spray I couldn't see anything looking up. Got as close as I could until the force of the spray blew me over, goodbye walking stick as I broke that trying to keep up. Sat behind a boulder to rest before heading back.
I have seen some mighty falls in my time as I love them but the horizontal force at the bottom of this one was the greatest I have experienced. Not sure how close I got to it as was just a wall of mist.
Attached some poor photos - need a new camera now. ANy one else going I advise a fully weaterproof one, probabaly underwater type!
A four day wet hike on the track with this day by far the worst. Almost blown off at the Mackinnon Pass and machine gunned with horizontal hail as struggled to the shelter near the top to make a hot drink and wring out clothes as already soaked to the skin. As was everyone else in our 38 strong group doing the trek. I was the only one with dry feet! Struggled round with no views due to clouds etc but finally got out of the wind for the descent down the emergency track and wearily arrived at Quintin hut for much needed hot sweet coffee free of charge. Dumped the pack and laughed at the note to take a raincoat with us on the walk to the falls due to the force of the spray. Wide concrete steps up the climb with water cascading down them, just like walking up a waterfall. Most of the group stopped at the second swing bridge which probably offers the best views - only a short hike for any not wanting to go the whole way and well worth it.
Needed to go further to get the cache though and the track now was wide and level so easy I thought. Apart from two streams which were knee deep and there go my dry feet for good now. Falls were getting louder, not heard such a roar since I once drove under Concorde taking off from Heathrow many moons ago.
Got to the Falls Sign and up a little rise to see the bottom. The rest was just a mass of spray I couldn't see anything looking up. Got as close as I could until the force of the spray blew me over, goodbye walking stick as I broke that trying to keep up. Sat behind a boulder to rest before heading back.
I have seen some mighty falls in my time as I love them but the horizontal force at the bottom of this one was the greatest I have experienced. Not sure how close I got to it as was just a wall of mist.
Attached some poor photos - need a new camera now. ANy one else going I advise a fully weaterproof one, probabaly underwater type!
We had the most stunning weather on all four days of our Milford walk. The doing the extra to the falls made it a very big days indeed but it was worth it for it for its shear beauty and size. Our previous hut warden told us we could get behind the falls but we forgot our coats when we dumped our packs so we passed on that option. Thanks for bringing us here. Really a once in a lifetime opportunity
Made it after a couple of heavy downpours during the day!! Absolutely stunning part of the world. Tftc
Absolutly amazing.
Beautiful four days with perfect whether - sunshine all the time - no rain !!!
And yes i went to the Stuherland Falls
Best Track i ever made.
TFTC
#324
Beautiful four days with perfect whether - sunshine all the time - no rain !!!
And yes i went to the Stuherland Falls
Best Track i ever made.
TFTC
#324
Greetings from Australia! WOW, WOW, WOW!
After five glorious days walking the Milford Track (well over 65 kms with numerous side walks) seeing the Sutherland Falls, beautiful and varied fauna at every turn, flowers galore and friendly birds with rain only very late afternoon after the walks, and in the evenings, this place is truly paradise. It did drizzle coming back from these falls at around 5.45 pm. It was light rain that was refreshing having just run the 3 km+ (30 mins to run 82m acscent, 16 decent one way) to make it to this destination before the curfew time set by Ultimate Hike guides The heavy snow blizzard from the previous days/week kept the waterfalls flowing for us to appreciate just how spectacular it could also be had it rained heavily during the day. It was very hard to put the camera down.
Our friendship group of 3 was always last into the huts each day but well within the allowed/expected walking time. We enjoyed every hour we could in this superb wilderness with our 'own' guide each day to answer our numerous questions - yep you get your own 'personal guide' if you are at the tail of the pack. We are all quite fit "so what's the rush guys" as some felt sorry for us for always being last. We often heard people saying that they made it to the huts in the top 5, 10 or 20 of the 50 in our group. Sometimes they were up to 3 hours ahead of us but what was important is that we could all choose our own pace to walk. BTW the food was great.
We also had two wonderful sunny days at Milford Sound and the sandflys were loving the tourists to bits. A number of locals said to us "do you know how lucky you are seeing the sunshine" and yes we do - we were lucky all week to also have the snow on all the mountain peaks and often everywhere in between. We also witnessed an avalanche from a safe distance and heard the roar of several others. What a magnificent place is Milford Fiordland! We were up at 5.30am to enjoy the sunrise over Mitre Peak on Wednesday. The cruise on the fiord itself was stunning and the seals adorable. WOW, WOW, WOW!
Worth a favorite point for the encouragement to get to the falls after a long but exhileration climb over the McKinnon Pass with fantastic clear views down the valleys and a light breeze for the EAST making it a pleasant and easy walk up and down albiet long - my Garman GSP recorded 834m of total ascent and 940 m of total decent for the main walk alone not including the walk to Sutherland falls.
Answers sent to CO 28/11/18 and permission to log has been received. TFTEC DeeWhoa.
After five glorious days walking the Milford Track (well over 65 kms with numerous side walks) seeing the Sutherland Falls, beautiful and varied fauna at every turn, flowers galore and friendly birds with rain only very late afternoon after the walks, and in the evenings, this place is truly paradise. It did drizzle coming back from these falls at around 5.45 pm. It was light rain that was refreshing having just run the 3 km+ (30 mins to run 82m acscent, 16 decent one way) to make it to this destination before the curfew time set by Ultimate Hike guides The heavy snow blizzard from the previous days/week kept the waterfalls flowing for us to appreciate just how spectacular it could also be had it rained heavily during the day. It was very hard to put the camera down.
Our friendship group of 3 was always last into the huts each day but well within the allowed/expected walking time. We enjoyed every hour we could in this superb wilderness with our 'own' guide each day to answer our numerous questions - yep you get your own 'personal guide' if you are at the tail of the pack. We are all quite fit "so what's the rush guys" as some felt sorry for us for always being last. We often heard people saying that they made it to the huts in the top 5, 10 or 20 of the 50 in our group. Sometimes they were up to 3 hours ahead of us but what was important is that we could all choose our own pace to walk. BTW the food was great.
We also had two wonderful sunny days at Milford Sound and the sandflys were loving the tourists to bits. A number of locals said to us "do you know how lucky you are seeing the sunshine" and yes we do - we were lucky all week to also have the snow on all the mountain peaks and often everywhere in between. We also witnessed an avalanche from a safe distance and heard the roar of several others. What a magnificent place is Milford Fiordland! We were up at 5.30am to enjoy the sunrise over Mitre Peak on Wednesday. The cruise on the fiord itself was stunning and the seals adorable. WOW, WOW, WOW!
Worth a favorite point for the encouragement to get to the falls after a long but exhileration climb over the McKinnon Pass with fantastic clear views down the valleys and a light breeze for the EAST making it a pleasant and easy walk up and down albiet long - my Garman GSP recorded 834m of total ascent and 940 m of total decent for the main walk alone not including the walk to Sutherland falls.
Answers sent to CO 28/11/18 and permission to log has been received. TFTEC DeeWhoa.
Although I would love to have a smiley on this location, I was not up to the task. I set myself a challenge to do the Milford Track knowing I was not fit enough. I worked hard to improve my fitness in the 4 weeks I had after booking. I did make it through from start to end, 54.3km but any side trips to falls such as this was not do-able. As it was, I cried when I saw Dumpling Hut at the end of that day. I dont think I was the only one. The 1000m decent from Henderson Pass on the Emergency Track killed my knees. Oh to be young and fit again! If anyone reading this is considering doing the Milford Track, a level of fitness is required. For reference, I am a 57 year old 6' 5" male weighing 148kg and carrying a 20kg backpack. I made it. I do have a lot of walking experience so muscle memory should be accounted for. However, I was really lucky with the weather. I had 4 days of no rain which is most unusual for this region. If it rained on the day that I had to decent from the pass via the emergency track, I think I would still be there.
700! Wow! Started the finest walk in the word at the start on the winter season and I was so lucky with the weather. The view was stunning! Walking on the side of unexpected green river, crossing a valley surrounded by incredible mountain covered by water falls, washing my feet in blue pulls and of course marveled by the beauty of the highest water fall in NZ. So sad I had to leave a so amazing landscape, but at least I can log a cache for remember forever this amazing experience! Thanks DeeWhoa for this heart cache! Greeting from Elba island!
It was certainly a bonus to be able to log a cache here, even though I generally avoid Earthcaches. We were pretty lucky with the weather, and only the last day was really wet, but it started raining today. I wonder if the bush has grown/ there is no way you can get a picture at the coordinates. Complying with the logging requirements - at least making a good attempt - ended up making me even wetter than I was - the force of the water is spectacular. TFTC.
The Milford Track has been on my to do list for some time and after a failed attempt in 2017 (DOC closed the track due to flooding on the day I was supposed to start it) I re-booked it for 2018 and was able to complete it this time! The weather for the first 2 days was great, before a bit of rain set in for the 3rd day... which added atmosphere to the valleys and a bit more water for the waterfalls, so it was nice to have.
Sutherland Falls was always must visit on my hike and this cache was a must do, being the only one on the trail. After a lunch stop at Quintin Shelter, I dumped my heavy pack and took the short walk out to the falls. The falls were as impressive as I thought they would be and the power of the water hitting the rock in the plunge pool below was impressive to watch. Took my time to admire the falls and take a few photos. Answers have been sent to the CO and I'm logging as a find with permission. A amazing place to visit - favourite point added! Thanks for the Earthcache!
Sutherland Falls was always must visit on my hike and this cache was a must do, being the only one on the trail. After a lunch stop at Quintin Shelter, I dumped my heavy pack and took the short walk out to the falls. The falls were as impressive as I thought they would be and the power of the water hitting the rock in the plunge pool below was impressive to watch. Took my time to admire the falls and take a few photos. Answers have been sent to the CO and I'm logging as a find with permission. A amazing place to visit - favourite point added! Thanks for the Earthcache!
Southerland Falls is amazing!! We were so excited to have an earthcache here. The message has been sent to the CO. Thank you for the info and adding to our fun on the Milford Track!
TregearP and I visited on Day 2 of the Milford Track. Bad weather had been forecast but we were lucky and it seemed to have got delayed. We got over the pass and down the other side and left our packs in the day shelter whilst visiting the falls.
The walk in and out isn't too difficult, although in a couple of places the steps were an unwelcome reminder of hot spots from the climb and descent from earlier in the day.
The falls themselves were spectacular even though there had not been much rain recently. What they must be like after heavy rain is quite something to imagine.
We spent the second night in Dumpling Hut which has a very interesting information board about S. Quill who climbed the rock face next to the falls in the 1890's. Something else which is hard to imagine once you've seen the rock face and consider the equipment of the day.
Thanks for the additional motivation to take the side trip. Well worth it and highly recommended for anyone else doing the track. TFTC.
The walk in and out isn't too difficult, although in a couple of places the steps were an unwelcome reminder of hot spots from the climb and descent from earlier in the day.
The falls themselves were spectacular even though there had not been much rain recently. What they must be like after heavy rain is quite something to imagine.
We spent the second night in Dumpling Hut which has a very interesting information board about S. Quill who climbed the rock face next to the falls in the 1890's. Something else which is hard to imagine once you've seen the rock face and consider the equipment of the day.
Thanks for the additional motivation to take the side trip. Well worth it and highly recommended for anyone else doing the track. TFTC.
Had amazing weather on the Milford track out of season and while walking days were quite long and this was towards the end of the 2nd day there was no way we were missing the falls and completing the only cache on the Milford Track. Dropped packs at day shelter and headed for the 30 minute walk up to the falls, had some glimpses as we made our way along but you don't realise the height until you get to them. Despite being tired and with another 1 & 1/2 hours to hut took sometime to work through the information and take some photos. A beautiful day and when we did to get to hut it was interesting to find out that William Quill had climbed up and down them in 1890 with basic climbing equipment, an awesome feat.
Thank you for this cache. I was in two minds about going up to the falls. The cache was the kicker that overcame the sore feet. Impressive falls with a large volume of water. Not to mention the sense of history and exploration. Milford track lived up to its name as a great walk and did not disappoint.
Had a great repeat trip through Milford track 11 years after first doing the walk.
Interesting to see massive rebuild on the falls track. Falls spectacular as usual, although relatively tame as the region is unusually dry! Thanks
Was with Jillymc so joint find on this. Thanks
Interesting to see massive rebuild on the falls track. Falls spectacular as usual, although relatively tame as the region is unusually dry! Thanks
Was with Jillymc so joint find on this. Thanks
Impressive falls after a spectacular day crossing the McKinnon Pass. The walk in behind the falls was very refreshing. Thanks for this cache.
The Milford track was the last of the great walks for us to do. The trip over the pass was windy and wet today. Once down in the valley it improved. Side trip to the falls was always to be even more so with this cache here. Even with the rain we had I was able to get behind and take a photo from there.
All fourty of us were on this trip to celebrate 50 years of freedom walking on the Milford Track. Nine of our party were from the original group of Otago Tramping Club (now Otago Tramping and Mountaineering Club) who 50 years ago broke the monopoly that the guided walking group had on the track. After been refused permission to walk it without guides they said that they were coming and challenged them to stop them. It was public land in a national park. One group came in over Dore Pass, one Group over Hut Pass (now Glade Pass) and one group from Milford Sound end. Getting a boat ride from Milford Sound proved difficult and it was only the threat of a phone call to the press that caused the authorities to relent and give boating assistance. Public oponion was strongly behind the "Freedom Walkers."
This entry was edited by i-gotit on Wednesday, 22 April 2015 at 08:15:12 UTC.
This entry was edited by i-gotit on Wednesday, 22 April 2015 at 08:15:12 UTC.
Logged with permission from owner. The weather was pretty bad the day we visited and made answering questions about the top falls (which were obscured by cloud) pretty difficult. However well and truly worth the visit. TFTC.
This is an outstanding location! We hiked the pass this day, but clouds prevented us from seeing much. So it was great to see this fantastic falls which totally blew away our disappointment. There had been rain off and on the last few days, so lots of smaller falls were running as well as the big one. Thanks for this super Earthcache and making sure I took the time to hike the side trip. This gets a favorite! TFTC
well worth the side trip down to this amazing water fall, especially after two days of rain.
Superbe lieu qui vaut le détour!!!! Quelle cascade!!!!!!!Et quelle douche pour aller perdre le point GPS
Wow. Was this memorable. After a couple of days of rather wet weather arrived at Quintin Hut. So pleased we decided to push and make the extra effort to witness the falls. As we got close it was like being in a hurricane.
The wind coming off the waterfall was blowing in all directions and the spray was so strong we could not get near the base. Managed to get a great video but can't post that.
Loved it.
The wind coming off the waterfall was blowing in all directions and the spray was so strong we could not get near the base. Managed to get a great video but can't post that.
Loved it.
What a spectacular spot. I went up there the first time after getting to the lodge, and twice I started back to the lodge before turning around and going out again, just because I didn't know if I'd ever get to see it again, and it impressed me so much (that, and the spray was exhilarating !)
TFTC!
TFTC!
Found it! What a fabulous waterfall! Logged with permission. Full description & photos to follow. TFTC [(:)]
Did all three great walks from Te Anau and Milford Track was amazing! Hoped this would have been my 1000 find but still many unlogged so not sure which one will be nr 1000. Greetings from a Finnish cacher. TFTC
Glad to report the newly rebuilt trail has now been opened, and the falls are once more accessible!
It has taken them a year to build a completely new trail, including 2 new suspension bridges. But it is well done, and access is now restored!
What a remarkable site. I have attached a photo of the slip that caused the trail to be closed, very impressive! Apparantly there was a smaller slip about a year ago, then a massive slip back in May. The previous trail was completely demolished with the new slip.
We had a great tramp along the Milford Track, great to have a cache along the way, thanks DeeWhoa!
A great EC, answers have been emailed.
It has taken them a year to build a completely new trail, including 2 new suspension bridges. But it is well done, and access is now restored!
What a remarkable site. I have attached a photo of the slip that caused the trail to be closed, very impressive! Apparantly there was a smaller slip about a year ago, then a massive slip back in May. The previous trail was completely demolished with the new slip.
We had a great tramp along the Milford Track, great to have a cache along the way, thanks DeeWhoa!
A great EC, answers have been emailed.
Woohoo the new track is open just in time for our arrival. Alot of work has been done to open this new track to Sutherland Falls. I hiked the Milford Track with fellow cacher TheQuantQuark and we both had fun exploring under and behind the giant falls. My only pair of shoes got quite the soaking but thankfully we had amazingly perfect weather all the way. Thanks for this great earthcache amounst such an awesome backdrop.
I will be taking a stroll past here next week.. I'll post an update when I get back.
So close but at least I did see the falls. Too many other tracks to walk before I return to get this one.
With the trail to the plunge pool of the falls inaccessible, I am taking this down until the trail is safe and available,
Logged with Permission of CO.
Unfortunately the side track to Sutherland falls is blocked by a massive rockfall and is not expected to be open for up to 12 months. I walked to Quintin hut with my family as part of the Milford track walk and then went to the far end of the old airstrip to get a great view of the falls. Answers sent through to CO.
Will upload a photo when I have better internet connection.
What a truly magic place.
Thanks to DeeWhoa for a great cache. TFTC.
Unfortunately the side track to Sutherland falls is blocked by a massive rockfall and is not expected to be open for up to 12 months. I walked to Quintin hut with my family as part of the Milford track walk and then went to the far end of the old airstrip to get a great view of the falls. Answers sent through to CO.
Will upload a photo when I have better internet connection.
What a truly magic place.
Thanks to DeeWhoa for a great cache. TFTC.
Bad luck for us. We have a booking for the Milford Track and we were looking forward to go for this EC! Unfortunately the track to the falls is closed due to massive rock avalanche. You'll not be able to get close to the falls in near future.
After 3 rain-free days on the Milford track and a rain-free forecast for the following day, it didn't seem right to do the whole track without getting soaked at least once, so I braved the path around the back of the waterfall. Didn't get all the way round before getting driven back by the spray, but far enough to get completely soaked!
Logged with permission. Being able to log this wonderful Earthcache while walking the Milford Track was a real bonus. Walking the Milford Track is a must do for anyone who likes hiking. I did this walk with my wife & 2 friends through Ultimate Hikes. The guided walk they offer is the only way to walk the Milford Track. Arriving each afternoon to their 3 lodges with hot showers & a 3 course meal every night was pure luxury. And the additional 1 hour side walk to the Sutherland Falls is well worth the extra effort especially to log this wonderful Earthcache.
Sutherland Falls 580m, is so beautiful place our a trip "Milford track" from Te Anau over Mackinnon pass to Milford Sound.This beautiful place greatly exceeded our expectations. One of my top falls ever from travelling through the North and South Island of New Zealand. We have all been very wet but happy..
TFTC and greetings from Czech Republic..
This entry was edited by Abonent on Friday, 22 March 2013 at 14:39:15 UTC.
TFTC and greetings from Czech Republic..
This entry was edited by Abonent on Friday, 22 March 2013 at 14:39:15 UTC.
An unforgettable sight on the Milford Track. We did get wet close to the fall, but it was worth it. Thanks for the cache.
New Year's Eve .... I did it and it was great 
I love NZ and this tramping holiday was really a highlight- and on the fourth track - this high waterfall - I love it...
I was really close to it-but i didn't take a bath
but I took a shower
TFTC
I love NZ and this tramping holiday was really a highlight- and on the fourth track - this high waterfall - I love it...
I was really close to it-but i didn't take a bath
but I took a shower TFTC
The Milford Track was the highlight of our three weeks tour around the South Island of New Zealand. The flora and fauna of the Fiordland region are really astonishing and we were wondering multiple times how many nuances of green nature can produce.
On the third day of our hike we had to cross Mc Kinnon pass and would also pass by at the Sutherland Falls. The day started already with strong rain and this rain should not stop the whole day until we would reach Dumpling Hut in the late afternoon. So we were quite sceptical whether we would be in the mood to stop by at the Sutherland Falls when we left Mintaro Hut.
When we arrived at the McKinnon pass, we were long soaked despite of Goretex clothing. At least my shoes still withstood the permanent hammering of the water. We were qutie happy with the newly contructed hut on the pass and tried to warm ourselves with some tea.
However, we had to press on at some point. Getting back into the wet cloth is really an enjoyment! When we arrived at the Quintin Shelter, we were quite happy with the coffee that the guys from the lodge put there for us..great gesture. Since we were already soaked we went to see the Sutherland Falls in the end...we could not get more wet anyway
And it was completely worth it. We already could hear the roaring sounds from quite a distance and when the falls came into view we were stunned... what a wild face of nature. What we only saw afterwards on postcards is that the falls were about double their usual size thanks to the immense rain falls...in the end they had something positive. It was not possible to get anywhere near the splashpool..its like running against a storm
Thanks for the earthcache at this awesome location.
Tasaio
TEAM DRAGONSLAYER
Together with Da_Miche
On the third day of our hike we had to cross Mc Kinnon pass and would also pass by at the Sutherland Falls. The day started already with strong rain and this rain should not stop the whole day until we would reach Dumpling Hut in the late afternoon. So we were quite sceptical whether we would be in the mood to stop by at the Sutherland Falls when we left Mintaro Hut.
When we arrived at the McKinnon pass, we were long soaked despite of Goretex clothing. At least my shoes still withstood the permanent hammering of the water. We were qutie happy with the newly contructed hut on the pass and tried to warm ourselves with some tea.
However, we had to press on at some point. Getting back into the wet cloth is really an enjoyment! When we arrived at the Quintin Shelter, we were quite happy with the coffee that the guys from the lodge put there for us..great gesture. Since we were already soaked we went to see the Sutherland Falls in the end...we could not get more wet anyway
And it was completely worth it. We already could hear the roaring sounds from quite a distance and when the falls came into view we were stunned... what a wild face of nature. What we only saw afterwards on postcards is that the falls were about double their usual size thanks to the immense rain falls...in the end they had something positive. It was not possible to get anywhere near the splashpool..its like running against a storm
Thanks for the earthcache at this awesome location.
Tasaio
TEAM DRAGONSLAYER
Together with Da_Miche
The track started well enough for Tasaio and I. First day was very sunny. The landscape was simply impressive. Second day - not so sunny, actually some drizzles. We did not like it too much, but it was still ok. Only problem was that we really walked slowly in order to not having to spend too much time in the hut after only 16k. Third day: what the f***? Already in the morning it was raining, so that we started with full weather gear. The ascent was ok, only that after some time even the best materials are not really breathing anymore, so once on McInnon Pass (with no view whatsoever) we were thorougly soaked. After some tea in the shelter, which did not suffice to dry any of the wet clothes, we walked on. Not on the main trail, but on the emergency path (that is to say in a creek - did I mention it was raining?).
In the morning we were not really sure if we really wanted to do the detour of supposedly 1.5 hours, but once at the lodge were the good folks from the guided walks actually put up some hot tea for us and we had some yummy ramen we decided that - what the heck - we could hardly get any wetter, so let's do it.
Wow, how I would have regretted not having gone here. The way was a bit adventurous, with some streams crossing the path, but after not too long we heard some deep rumbling in the distance, much like the avalanche we had heard before on the descent. Just that it was no avalanche, but the Sutherland Falls. We had to take the picture quite some way off, as otherwise the spray would not have done our cameras much good.
Due to the snow melt and the rain the last days the water amounts were just incredible. Very very impressive. We walked closer into the spray and it was just overwhelming.
That I managed to lose my footing (or rather to step on a lose stone) on the way back and that I ended up swimming did not at all lessen the feeling I still have today when thinking back on those falls. Simply great!!
(Needless to say that the last day on the track was dry again and even some view was to be had....) Looking at some postcards of the Sutherland falls back in the civilisation we noticed how lucky we were to see them at such a might. Pity that the photos can not really relay what we have seen.
Thank you very much for this cache and greetings from the other end of the world(i.e. Germany),
da_miche
on NZ South Island Tour with Tasaio of Team Dragonslayer.
This entry was edited by da_miche on Thursday, 15 December 2011 at 23:03:42 UTC.
In the morning we were not really sure if we really wanted to do the detour of supposedly 1.5 hours, but once at the lodge were the good folks from the guided walks actually put up some hot tea for us and we had some yummy ramen we decided that - what the heck - we could hardly get any wetter, so let's do it.
Wow, how I would have regretted not having gone here. The way was a bit adventurous, with some streams crossing the path, but after not too long we heard some deep rumbling in the distance, much like the avalanche we had heard before on the descent. Just that it was no avalanche, but the Sutherland Falls. We had to take the picture quite some way off, as otherwise the spray would not have done our cameras much good.
Due to the snow melt and the rain the last days the water amounts were just incredible. Very very impressive. We walked closer into the spray and it was just overwhelming.
That I managed to lose my footing (or rather to step on a lose stone) on the way back and that I ended up swimming did not at all lessen the feeling I still have today when thinking back on those falls. Simply great!!
(Needless to say that the last day on the track was dry again and even some view was to be had....) Looking at some postcards of the Sutherland falls back in the civilisation we noticed how lucky we were to see them at such a might. Pity that the photos can not really relay what we have seen.
Thank you very much for this cache and greetings from the other end of the world(i.e. Germany),
da_miche
on NZ South Island Tour with Tasaio of Team Dragonslayer.
This entry was edited by da_miche on Thursday, 15 December 2011 at 23:03:42 UTC.
Found it on a nice sunny day. After the great view off McKinnon Pass and the knee banging 1000m descent a nice walk without the backback.
I guess I would gone there anyway but this earthcache made a bit more fun.
My first T5!
Thanks!
I guess I would gone there anyway but this earthcache made a bit more fun.
My first T5!
Thanks!
Amazing waterfall on an amazing walk. On of the highlights of the Milford Track. TFTC!
I flew around the globe, and hiked for 4 days, only to get this cache!
On the Milford Track, we had 4 days of perfect weather. As it was so dry, the ranger told us, that we can walk behind the falls. This was so amazing! After a few seconds, we were completely soaked, sometimes it was hard to breath because of the wind gusts. But standing behind the falls and watching up, was just unbelievable. Something, I won't forget!
On the Milford Track, we had 4 days of perfect weather. As it was so dry, the ranger told us, that we can walk behind the falls. This was so amazing! After a few seconds, we were completely soaked, sometimes it was hard to breath because of the wind gusts. But standing behind the falls and watching up, was just unbelievable. Something, I won't forget!
after more than a week waiting for the permission to log, therefore i log this cache
new zealand is so great
tftc cache and greetings from austria
new zealand is so great
tftc cache and greetings from austria
What a waterfall. Massive! It was impressive to see the strength of the water coming down into the plunge pool. The wind it produced was so strong that it was hard to take any good picture because the lens got wet all the time... anyway. Nice cache and my 3rd earth cache so far. yeah! TFTC. And yeah, just to mention, the Milford Track was amazing...!
Walked the Track with 8 other local(ish) mums for my 40th, had a blast. Went right to the plunge pool for a drink and got soaked. Unfortunately had low cloud swirling around as we went over the pass so just glimpses down the valleys. Came down the Emergency route from the top as still avalanche risk - had very sore calves for a few days when got home.
My tip on the Milford Track is to leave super early on the last day (we should have left at 7 not
as some gorgeous spots for a quick dip/fish/eel/bird spotting/sit down/food on the way and we felt we had to keep walking in order to make the 2pm boat (arrived at end at 1.30 in the end).
Loved it, we are planning the Routeburn next March and the Kepler next Nov!
Enjoy your trip Rex Trex.
My tip on the Milford Track is to leave super early on the last day (we should have left at 7 not
as some gorgeous spots for a quick dip/fish/eel/bird spotting/sit down/food on the way and we felt we had to keep walking in order to make the 2pm boat (arrived at end at 1.30 in the end).Loved it, we are planning the Routeburn next March and the Kepler next Nov!
Enjoy your trip Rex Trex.
It is a really great waterfall, unfortunately we had a really bad weather this day, so we did´t see it so good.
Sutherland Falls was never going to be easy to miss!
We had dry, warm weather for all 4 days during our hike. A bit of cloud going over the pass, but had times with clear skies to get some good views and photo's.
The DOC park rangers said that walking behind Sullivan falls is something that we couldn't miss out on, so we did that too. Also took a dip in the plunge pool (complete with my GPS, just for the photo)
Thanks for the EarthCache.
We had dry, warm weather for all 4 days during our hike. A bit of cloud going over the pass, but had times with clear skies to get some good views and photo's.
The DOC park rangers said that walking behind Sullivan falls is something that we couldn't miss out on, so we did that too. Also took a dip in the plunge pool (complete with my GPS, just for the photo)
Thanks for the EarthCache.
Found it! I could hardly miss it! It is quite big!
I was hopeful that I would be FTF but I was beaten to it, oh well it does not make this find any less of an achievment.
I tried to walk right up to the edge of the plunge pool but could not stand the froce of the spray coming off the falls.
Donald Sutherland must have just about peed his pants when he and McKay found this mighty waterfall, I'll bet McKay was annoyed that he had named the other falls after himself a few days earlier, although the McKay falls are awsome Sutherland Falls are far more noteable.
I hope I get the oppertunity to go back some time before I die.
I was hopeful that I would be FTF but I was beaten to it, oh well it does not make this find any less of an achievment.
I tried to walk right up to the edge of the plunge pool but could not stand the froce of the spray coming off the falls.
Donald Sutherland must have just about peed his pants when he and McKay found this mighty waterfall, I'll bet McKay was annoyed that he had named the other falls after himself a few days earlier, although the McKay falls are awsome Sutherland Falls are far more noteable.
I hope I get the oppertunity to go back some time before I die.
A very expensive and time consuming first to find. Walked the Milford on a sprained ankle and in massive rain. Still, this is how I wanted to spend my Christmas so all is good. Thanks for the cahe, wonder how long till the second finder.
Now this detour was certainly worth the effort even though I already felt quite annihilated after the long and tough descent. I believe we must have picked the perfect day for our visit since we were lucky enough to enjoy spotless sky while still having well-nurtured waterfalls owed to the rainy days before. The refreshing soak was really very welcome, thanks for placing this nice souvenir-earth-cache on this splendid spot.
Thanks to the owner for the fast reply and sorry again (also to Cowboy Bebop!) for placing our log so late. When we came back from our trip, Milka and I got hit so badly by tasks waiting for our return that we didn't manage to get on top of all the caches we visited until far too late...
Thanks to the owner for the fast reply and sorry again (also to Cowboy Bebop!) for placing our log so late. When we came back from our trip, Milka and I got hit so badly by tasks waiting for our return that we didn't manage to get on top of all the caches we visited until far too late...
Thank you very much for the cache at this beautiful spot which was definitely one of the caching highlights on our trip to New Zealand. We walked the Milford track from December 19 to 22 and I think we chose the most perfect time as we had very nice weather during all 4 days and we were lucky to witness cloudless sky on Mackinnon pass. Even though my knees hurt quite a bit after finishing the descend, we decided to take the side trip to the Sutherland Falls and of course we were not disappointed. Very nice and wet location which deserves a cache for sure!
Thank you for the quick log permission and aI apologize for this very late log!
Milka
We walked the Milford track from December 19 to 22 and I think we chose the most perfect time as we had very nice weather during all 4 days and we were lucky to witness cloudless sky on Mackinnon pass. Even though my knees hurt quite a bit after finishing the descend, we decided to take the side trip to the Sutherland Falls and of course we were not disappointed. Very nice and wet location which deserves a cache for sure!Thank you for the quick log permission and aI apologize for this very late log!
Milka
