It is easy to get mesmerized by the sheer cliffs encircling Milford Sound. But a close inspection of the rock reveals scars and polishing from the fjord’s formation. Milford Sound was created during 20 glacial periods dating back to the Ross Glaciation 2.5 million years ago. The incredible power of these glaciers moved an estimated 13.2 billion tons of rock while carving out the valley. The forces were the strongest near the terminus, resulting in a water depth of 1,312 feet. As the debris was pushed towards the Tasman Sea, the water depth is just over 80 feet. It took over 600 million years of tectonic shifts and erosion to create the magnificent mountain peaks.
