I'll be here in December on a solo trip. I have my eye on the Milford Track but not close enough! The huts are already booked through March.

I looked at a guided walk but it's $1,000+. Is there a way to do the track as day hikes? Or would it be better to look at different hikes?

My understanding is that you can't even access the track in summer w/o a hut booking or on a guided hike. Numbers are limited to 40 independent walkers and a similar number of guided walkers each day. The track can only be walked in one direction, as a 4 day / 3 night walk – Glade Wharf to Milford Sound, during the Great Walks Summer Season (late October to late April).

There is a day walk option, beginning at Glade Wharf (after taking the boat from Te Anau Downs). We've done this in the off season. I'm not sure if it's an option during the summer season, suggest you check with DOC.

http://www.doc.govt.nz/

Staying overnight in shelters or camping on the Milford track is not permitted.

Fear not, there are loads of other tracks in the area. Take a look at the Kepler, the Hollyford and the Routeburn.

Thank you for the suggestions. I know there's other beautiful hikes out there. I really want to experience this hut to hut hiking that other countries seem to manage so well.

Then definitely look into the Routeburn

The Routeburn is awesome and in some ways more spectacular than the Milford Track.

Different country, but you might consider the Overland Track in Tasmania. That'll be my next big hike.

How far in advance should I book the Routeburn? Or does it not fill up like the Milford?