Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Waterfalls
United Kingdom
Scotland
Highlands

Ballachulish

Top 8 Waterfalls around Ballachulish

Best waterfalls around Ballachulish are found within a landscape characterized by mountains, glens, and lochs in the Scottish Highlands. This area offers a variety of natural features, including numerous waterfalls that are accessible via different trails. The region's geology contributes to the formation of these cascades, often nestled within deep valleys and woodland settings. Visitors can explore these natural attractions, which range from easily accessible spots to more challenging waterfall trails.

Best waterfalls around Ballachulish

  • The most popular waterfalls is Coire Gabhail Waterfalls, a viewpoint that features picturesque paths and waterfalls, requiring good footwear for its stony sections. It offers scenic views even on cloudy days.
  • Another must-see spot is Allt nan Goirtein Woodland Stream, a viewpoint surrounded by a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. This woodland vista provides a glimpse of the natural beauty found along the Inchree falls forest walk.
  • Visitors also love Bealach Dearg Waterfalls, a viewpoint located in a high col at the head of the Lost Valley. It offers views down the length of this large corrie, though the path can be steep and loose in its upper section.
  • Ballachulish is known for its diverse waterfalls, including cascades within gorges, woodland streams, and those found along challenging mountain trails. The variety of waterfalls provides options for different types of exploration, from easy waterfall walks Ballachulish to more demanding routes.
  • The waterfalls around Ballachulish are appreciated by the komoot community, with highlights receiving more than 125 upvotes and featuring 69 photos.

Last updated: May 4, 2026

Coire Gabhail Waterfalls

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

A somewhat stony part follows as soon as you cross the bridge.

Good footwear and sure-footedness are required! You will be rewarded on the way with picturesque paths and waterfalls.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Bealach Dearg Waterfalls

Highlight • Viewpoint

Bealach Dearg is a high col between the Bidean massif's two Munros, with Stob Coire Sgreamhach to the east and Bidean Nam Bian to the northwest. It stands at the head of the Lost Valley and enjoys a beautiful view down the length of this huge corrie – a superb place to ponder the immensity of the natural forces that sculpted the landscape.

The path down into – or up from, if you're ascending – the Lost Valley is very steep and a little loose in its upper section. Take your time and take care. Bear in mind that after periods of heavy snowfall, there is avalanche risk here.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Instead of just stopping in the parking lot at Loch Achtriochtan and taking a picture of the bridge and the Achnambeithach Cottage, it's worth making a detour across the stream and taking the well-developed path along the watercourse to the waterfall. There is only one place where you should perhaps share hands, the rest is also for inexperienced hikers well feasible.
The waterfall is bigger than it looks from the valley and the view from the top is worth the climb. With a little luck you will also meet one or the other sheep at the waterfall.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Allt nan Goirtein Woodland Stream

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

The track crosses the Allt nan Goirtein. Surrounded by a mix of both deciduous native trees and coniferous plantation, this mini woodland vista is a taste of things to come if you are following the Inchree falls forest walk.

Tip by

Save

This path is worth the climb to see back into the valley and down to the A82, in warm weather the heat is contained, so make sure you are suitably dressed and carrying fluids.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Ballachulish.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Ballachulish

Scottish winter – five superb mountaineering routes in Lochaber

Quintessential Highland adventures — hiking in Glen Coe

Hiking the 282 munro mountains of Scotland in 95 routes

Hiking around Ballachulish

Road Cycling Routes around Ballachulish

MTB Trails around Ballachulish

Cycling around Ballachulish

Running Trails around Ballachulish

Mountain Hikes around Ballachulish

Other adventures around Ballachulish

Scottish winter – five superb mountaineering routes in Lochaber

Collection by

Alex Foxfield

Tips from the Community

Danielle
August 16, 2023, Coire Gabhail Waterfalls

Good mountain boots with a good profile and rain gear because the weather can change in an instant. There is an iron staircase so if you have a dog with you you will have to lift it. The trip is there and back and truly beautiful There are a few steep sections but it is doable

Translated by Google

0

0

The track crosses the Allt nan Goirtein. Surrounded by a mix of both deciduous native trees and coniferous plantation, this mini woodland vista is a taste of things to come if you are following the Inchree falls forest walk.

2

0

This path winds its way up the valley floor, encountering many beautiful waterfalls along the way. It's incredibly scenic even on a cloudy day.

2

1

Bealach Dearg is a high col between the Bidean massif's two Munros, with Stob Coire Sgreamhach to the east and Bidean Nam Bian to the northwest. It stands at the head of the Lost Valley and enjoys a beautiful view down the length of this huge corrie – a superb place to ponder the immensity of the natural forces that sculpted the landscape. The path down into – or up from, if you're ascending – the Lost Valley is very steep and a little loose in its upper section. Take your time and take care. Bear in mind that after periods of heavy snowfall, there is avalanche risk here.

2

0

This path is worth the climb to see back into the valley and down to the A82, in warm weather the heat is contained, so make sure you are suitably dressed and carrying fluids.

1

0

Wongy
September 13, 2021, Coire Gabhail Waterfalls

Great little pools for a dip if you are brave

1

1

On the way to the Lost Valley you pass the waterfalls

Translated by Google

0

0

A somewhat stony part follows as soon as you cross the bridge. Good footwear and sure-footedness are required! You will be rewarded on the way with picturesque paths and waterfalls.

Translated by Google

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Ballachulish waterfalls?

The waterfalls around Ballachulish are set within a landscape of mountains, glens, and lochs in the Scottish Highlands. You'll find cascades nestled within deep valleys and woodland settings, often surrounded by a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. Many offer views of dramatic corries and mountain ranges.

Are there any family-friendly or easy waterfall walks near Ballachulish?

Yes, some waterfalls are more accessible. For example, the Waterfall Above Achnambeithach Cottage offers a well-developed path that is feasible even for inexperienced hikers, with only one section where you might need to use your hands. The Allt nan Goirtein Woodland Stream is part of the Inchree falls forest walk, providing a pleasant woodland vista.

Which waterfalls offer a more challenging hiking experience?

For a more challenging experience, consider the Bealach Dearg Waterfalls, located in a high col at the head of the Lost Valley. The path here can be steep and loose in its upper section, requiring care. The Coire Gabhail Waterfalls also involve stony sections, requiring good footwear and sure-footedness.

Can I go wild swimming near any of the waterfalls?

Yes, if you're brave enough for the cold water, the Coire Gabhail Waterfalls have great little pools for a dip. Always exercise caution and be aware of water conditions and temperatures.

What should I wear for waterfall hikes in the Ballachulish area?

Good footwear is essential, especially for stony or steep sections found at places like Coire Gabhail Waterfalls. For the Waterfall on the Hidden Valley Path, it's advised to be suitably dressed and carry fluids, as the heat can be contained in the valley.

Are there any 'hidden' waterfalls or less obvious spots to explore?

The Waterfall on the Hidden Valley Path is, as its name suggests, a less obvious spot that requires a climb to see back into the valley. Similarly, the Bealach Dearg Waterfalls are found in the remote and dramatic Lost Valley, offering a sense of discovery.

What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Ballachulish?

Visitors appreciate the picturesque paths and scenic views, even on cloudy days, as noted at Coire Gabhail Waterfalls. The variety of waterfalls, from woodland streams to those on challenging mountain trails, provides diverse exploration options. The stunning natural beauty and the opportunity to witness the immense forces that sculpted the landscape are also highly valued.

What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the waterfalls?

The Ballachulish area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like 'Sgòrr Dhònuill (Beinn a' Bheithir) via the School-House Ridge trail run'. There are also many hiking opportunities, from easy walks like the 'Slate Miners' Ruins – Forest Stream loop' to difficult mountain hikes such as 'Coire Gabhail (Hidden Valley) loop'. For more details, explore the Running Trails around Ballachulish, Hiking around Ballachulish, and Mountain Hikes around Ballachulish guides.

Are there specific hiking trails near these waterfalls?

Yes, many waterfalls are part of or near established hiking trails. For instance, the Coire Gabhail Waterfalls are along a path winding up the valley floor. The Waterfall Above Achnambeithach Cottage has a well-developed path along the watercourse. You can find detailed routes and more hiking options in the Hiking around Ballachulish guide.

What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Ballachulish?

The waterfalls are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn bring vibrant colors to the surrounding woodlands. After periods of heavy rain, the waterfalls are particularly powerful. In winter, be mindful of potential avalanche risks in higher areas like Bealach Dearg, and always check local conditions before heading out.

Are there any waterfalls located within Glen Coe?

Yes, several notable waterfalls are found within or on the fringes of Glen Coe. For example, the Coire Gabhail Waterfalls are located within the famous Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) in Glen Coe, offering stunning views even on cloudy days. The Bealach Dearg Waterfalls are also situated in a high col within the Bidean massif, overlooking the Lost Valley in Glen Coe.

Most popular routes around Ballachulish

Hiking around Ballachulish

Most popular attractions around Ballachulish

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Ballachulish:

Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge And AchnacarryFort William, Inverlochy And TorlundyNether LochaberKinlochlevenGlencoe And Glen EtiveNorthwest HighlandsArdgourKilmallieCaolBen Nevis And Glen CoeIsle of SkyeFort Augustus And GlenmoristonStrathglassWester RossTorridon And KinlocheweGarve And DistrictCreichLochbroomGlengarryDornie And DistrictAssynt - CoigachAssyntKincraigLochduichScourieArdgay And DistrictLairgFerintoshLochcarronContinStrathpefferMarybank, Scatwell And StrathcononDuror And KentallenGlenurquhartStratherrick And FoyersGlen Affric National Nature ReserveKiltearn

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Nether Lochaber

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy