Lake Marian is beautiful and is the most accessible of Fiordland's many small, high, mountain-bound lakes. It is 700 metres above sea level and sits within a steep mountain-bound amphitheatre in the Darran Mountains. The most prominent surrounding peaks are Mount Lyttle (1,899 metres) and Mount Gunn (2,044 metres) to the northeast, Mount Christina (2,474 metres) to the southwest and Mount Crosscut (2,052 metres) and Mount Marian (2,102 metres) to the northwest. The surrounding mountains all have glaciers.
A rockslide at its southeast end created the lake, which explains the shrubs and many rocks strewn around the shore amongst the grass. Although it is a popular location, there is plenty of room by the lake for a picnic, or you can easily walk in either direction around the lake's edge. Swimming is also an option, but take care if you are inclined to jump off the large rock to the left of the track entrance.
The lake is enchanting on a sunny, calm day, with the mountains reflecting on its surface. Even on overcast days, the lake holds a unique charm. If you can visit on a beautiful Winter's day, it's an experience not to be missed!
Lake Marian is accessed from Lower Hollyford Road on the Lake Marian Track, a rough tramping track that takes 90 minutes to 2 hours each way.
