This Hidden Lake in New Zealand Feeds a Waterfall Like No Other | Mystical Lake Quill and Its 1,904-Foot Drop!
On March 9, 1890, the young surveyor William Quill used only basic climbing equipment, to scale the side of the ‘great Sutherland waterfall’. This waterfall cascades down for 580 m near Milford Sound. After nearly 3 1/2 hours of tough climb, he had his reward. Standing at the summit of one of the highest waterfalls in the world taking in an ‘indescribably magnificent’ view. Later the cirque lake which fed the falls would be named Lake Quill in his honour. Because Quill fell to his death in a subsequent climb a year later.
But nearly 130 years on, Lake Quill fascinates nature lovers. It is located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island. The elevation of Lake Quill is 979 meters (3,212 feet). Let us find out more about this inaccessible yet much sought-after lake.
The Geography of Lake Quill
Lake Quill sits within a cirque, a natural amphitheater-like formation carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Surrounded by cliffs and rugged terrain, it is located in a remote part of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake occupies a relatively small area but is fed by a consistent flow of precipitation and meltwater from nearby peaks. Its altitude and the rugged environment make it a challenge to access, which has preserved its untouched beauty.
The outflow of Lake Quill is Sutherland Falls, which plunges 580 meters (1,904 feet) in three cascades into the valley below. This drop is what makes the lake and its waterfall extraordinary, contributing to its status as a natural wonder.
The Discovery of Lake Quill
A Scottish prospector named Donald Sutherland first sighted the waterfall in 1880 and it was named after him. Lake was named after Donald Sutherland’s close associate, William Quill, whom we discussed at the beginning. The discovery came as part of an expedition to explore the source of Sutherland Falls. Sutherland Falls, originally thought to be the tallest waterfall in the world, led explorers to the lake above.
William Quill described the lake as a hidden gem cradled by sheer rock faces. Tragically William Quill’s luck ran out less than a year later. William’s two younger brothers found fragments of his skull at the bottom of a 600-m cliff on January 1891.
The Hydrology Behind Sutherland Falls
The lake is a vital part of the hydrology of Sutherland Falls. The lake is fed primarily by rain and glacial meltwater, creating a continuous supply of water throughout the year. The region receives an average of over 6,000 millimeters of rainfall annually, making it one of the wettest areas in New Zealand. This ensures a steady flow of water down the falls regardless of the season.
Sutherland Falls consists of three distinct drops. The first is a sheer plunge of 229 meters (751 feet), followed by a second drop of 248 meters (814 feet), and a final descent of 103 meters (338 feet). Together, these cascades create a mesmerizing spectacle. The velocity and volume of water are dependent on the rainfall, with the falls appearing most powerful after heavy downpours.
Challenges of Accessing Lake Quill
Due to its remote location and surrounding cliffs, Lake Quill is not easily accessible. The most common way to view the lake and Sutherland Falls is by helicopter tours, which offer a bird’s-eye perspective of the dramatic terrain. Some advanced hikers attempt to reach the lake via off-track routes, though this requires specialized equipment and knowledge of the area.
The Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offers views of Sutherland Falls but does not provide direct access to Lake Quill. Hikers on this track often stop at Quintin Lodge to take a side trip to the falls’ base. Also, Lake Quill and the surrounding area is a part of the New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
The Role of Lake Quill in Fiordland’s Ecosystem
Lake plays a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of Fiordland. Its consistent water supply supports aquatic ecosystems downstream and helps maintain the lush vegetation in the valleys below. The mist generated by Sutherland Falls creates a microclimate that supports unique plant species, including mosses and ferns.
The area around Lake Quill is also home to several endemic bird species. The remote location provides a refuge for these birds, which are often threatened by predators elsewhere in New Zealand.
Conservation Efforts
As part of Fiordland National Park, Lake Quill is protected under New Zealand’s conservation laws. The park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ensures that it receives international attention and funding for preservation efforts. However, the increasing popularity of helicopter tours has raised concerns about the impact of tourism on the area’s tranquility and ecological integrity.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) monitors human activities around Lake Quill and Sutherland Falls to ensure minimal environmental impact. Strict guidelines are in place for tour operators, and visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the delicate ecosystems.
Lake Quill and Maori Significance
Although specific Maori legends about Lake Quill are not well-documented, Fiordland as a whole holds deep cultural significance for the Maori people. The area is part of the ancestral lands of Ngai Tahu, the South Island iwi (tribe). They consider the region’s natural features as sacred and integral to their heritage.
Comparing Lake Quill and Other High-Elevation Lakes
Lake Quill’s location and role in feeding a significant waterfall make it a unique case study among high-altitude lakes. Other lakes, like Lake Titicaca in South America or Crater Lake in Oregon, share similar remote characteristics but differ in terms of hydrological output. The elevation of Lake Quill, combined with its waterfall connection, sets it apart as an exceptional geological and hydrological feature.
Visitor Experience and Inspiration
Despite its inaccessibility, Lake Quill inspires a sense of wonder. Visitors who have the opportunity to see it often describe it as an unforgettable experience. Helicopter pilots who fly over the area frequently share their admiration for the pristine beauty of Lake Quill and its surroundings.
Conclusion
Lake Quill, hidden within the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, is a natural treasure. As the source of the magnificent Sutherland Falls, it captures the imagination of all who encounter it. Its unique geography, ecological significance, and remote location make it one of New Zealand’s most fascinating natural landmarks.
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