The best waterfall hikes and walks around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve
4.8
(15)
108
hikers
3
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve traverse a landscape characterized by its unique raised bog environment, surrounded by agricultural land and small woodlands. The area features gentle undulations, with rivers and streams carving through the terrain, creating opportunities for waterfall sightings. This region offers a mix of open views and sheltered paths, providing diverse settings for outdoor exploration.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is Wallace's Cave…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(3)
8
hikers
11.1km
02:54
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
22.5km
05:58
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
5.27km
01:22
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
When exploring the River Avon near Tomintoul, consider embarking on the 16-mile round-trip route from Tomintoul village to the picturesque Linn of Avon. This gentle path is suitable for both walking and cycling, offering a serene journey through heather-covered hills and along the lively river. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and hares that inhabit the area. Along the way, you'll pass by the Queen’s View, a spot where Queen Victoria once admired the expansive landscape of her royal estate. The trail follows a landrover track and eventually joins a private, single-track road, providing a peaceful and less-traveled experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring a map, as the terrain can be uneven and weather conditions may change. [1] https://www.countryfile.com/go-outdoors/days-out/river-avon-tomintoul-moray-scotland
0
0
The Union Canal crosses the River Avon via the Avon Aqueduct. It was completed in 1821 and built to a design by Hugh Baird, with advice from Thomas Telford. It's 810 feet (250 m) long and 86 feet (26 m) high. Both the John Muir Way and the Union Canal towpath cross the aqueduct.
0
0
0
0
Graveyard of the Stirling family of Muiravonside. Look out for the tombstone of nanny Janet, the family’s nurse for 45 years.
0
0
Excellent viewing spot for the Avon Aqueduct. There are a set of steps here where you can walk up to the Aqueduct and walk across for even more stunning views. The aqueduct was built to a design by Hugh Baird, with advice from Thomas Telford, in tandem with the aqueducts at Slateford and Lin's Mill, with which it shares its design. Telford was not convinced that the stone arches were necessary in conjunction with the iron trough, but Baird used both on all three major aqueducts. Construction was carried out by Messrs. Craven, Whitaker and Nowell between 1819 and 1821, their success in building a stone bridge over the River Ouse making their tender for the contract "by far the most eligible." The aqueduct straddles the border between the West Lothian and Falkirk Council areas, so has two Historic Scotland listings. The aqueduct is a category A listed building.
1
0
Excellent viewing spot for the Avon Aqueduct. There are a set of steps here where you can walk up to the aqueduct and walk across for even more stunning views. The aqueduct was built to a design by Hugh Baird, with advice from Thomas Telford, in tandem with the aqueducts at Slateford and Lin's Mill, with which it shares its design. Telford was not convinced that the stone arches were necessary in conjunction with the iron trough, but Baird used both on all three major aqueducts. Construction was carried out by Messrs. Craven, Whitaker and Nowell between 1819 and 1821, their success in building a stone bridge over the River Ouse making their tender for the contract "by far the most eligible." The aqueduct straddles the border between the West Lothian and Falkirk Council areas, so has two Historic Scotland listings. The aqueduct is a category A listed building.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve?
There are 3 dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is an easy waterfall hike perfect for beginners or families. The Avon Falls – Avon Aqueduct loop from Torphichen is a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) path that offers beautiful views of Avon Falls and the historic Avon Aqueduct.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes near Blawhorn Moss?
The waterfall hikes around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve traverse a varied landscape. You can expect a mix of open bogland, river valleys, and small wooded areas, with gentle undulations as streams carve through the terrain.
Are there any longer or more challenging waterfall hikes in the area?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Wallace's Cave – Stirling Family Graveyard loop from Avonbridge is a difficult 13.9-mile (22.5 km) trail that takes approximately 6 hours to complete, leading through varied terrain.
What points of interest can I see along the waterfall trails?
Many trails feature notable points of interest. For example, the Wallace's Cave – Avon Falls loop from Avonbridge passes by both Avon Falls and Wallace's Cave. Another route highlights the historic Avon Aqueduct.
Are the waterfall hiking trails circular?
Yes, all the featured waterfall hiking trails around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the waterfall trails in Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from open bogland to river valleys, and the opportunity to discover natural features like waterfalls and historic landmarks.
Is there parking available for these waterfall hikes?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are best found on the individual route pages, routes often start from villages like Avonbridge or Torphichen, where local parking options may be available. We recommend checking the route details on komoot for the most accurate information.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls?
Waterfalls are often at their most impressive after periods of rain, typically during autumn or spring, when water levels are higher. However, the trails are accessible year-round, offering different scenic beauty with each season.
What should I wear for waterfall hiking in this region?
Given the varied terrain and potential for wet conditions near waterfalls, we recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots with good grip, layered clothing suitable for changing weather, and a waterproof jacket. The bogland areas can be damp, so appropriate footwear is key.
Are there any opportunities for wildlife spotting on these trails?
Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve is a significant raised bog habitat, home to various wildlife. While hiking, you might spot diverse bird species, insects, and unique bog flora. Keep an eye out, especially in the quieter sections of the trails.
Most popular routes around Blawhorn Moss National Nature Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
