Despite its name, Milford Sound is actually a fiord rather than a sound. The name “Milford” was given to the area by the Welsh explorer John Grono in 1812, who named it after his homeland of Milford Haven in Wales. The name “Sound” was later added to it by James Cook, who incorrectly assumed that it was a sound instead of a fiord.
A fiord is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by glacial erosion. Milford Sound was formed during the last Ice Age, around 15,000 years ago, when glaciers carved out deep valleys in the mountains. As the glaciers melted and sea levels rose, seawater flooded into the valleys, creating the fjord that we see today.
Milford Sound is located in Fiordland National Park, which is one of the largest and most remote national parks in New Zealand. It is known for its rugged beauty, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense rainforests. The fjord is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Milford Sound is a popular tourist destination and is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2008, it was named the world’s top travel destination by Tripadvisor. Visitors can experience the beauty of the fjord by taking a boat tour, hiking the nearby trails, or taking a scenic flight over the area.
Milford Sound is a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand, named after Milford Haven in Wales by John Grono, and incorrectly referred to as a sound by James Cook. Its formation during the last Ice Age and its location in Fiordland National Park make it a unique and beautiful destination for visitors from all over the world.
Tags: Fiords