recommended route
Steall Falls & Nevis Gorge Walk
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/ Steall FallsPhoto: Macs Adventure
For a low-level adventure, the Glen Nevis trails are a delight. One of the best short walks in Scotland, the rocky path through the Nevis Gorge to the cascading Steall Falls, is highly recommended, and is detailed as a linear walk with a short loop at the end. A return circuit of the route is approximately 4.5 km.
Arrange a return taxi to take you to the start of the walk at the Steall Falls car park. The journey will be around 10-15 minutes each way. We recommend Cloudy’s Taxis +44 (0) 7500 362 424 (approx. £20 each way).
Author’s recommendation
Safety information
Please take care on this route - the terrain is rough underfoot and there are steep drops beside the path in places. Although short and relatively easy you should be sure-footed and have sturdy footwear to safely undertake this hike.Tips and hints
Points of Interest
Steall Falls
A beautiful waterfall ostensibly tumbling 120m into a wide-open scenic valley backed by tall mountains of the Nevis Gorge. It’s said to be Scotland’s second-highest waterfall, which would be fitting considering it is in close proximity to Ben Nevis, which is the tallest mountain in Britain.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
Begin your walk with a taxi ride to a car park at the end of the C1162 minor road up Glen Nevis. Begin your walk from the edge of the car park where you will find a signpost for several far-away places for which it is seldom used, such as Spean Bridge, Corrour Station and Kinlochleven. This is also the start point for many Munros hikes as well as the access for this popular short walk.
Follow the trail into deciduous woodland. The path soon becomes rough underfoot as it meandering through a gorge. The valley now narrows considerably and the river can occasionally be seen below, crashing over and round huge fallen boulders. The path climbs up a rocky section with the aid of steps and a wooden handrail, before reaching the top of the gorge.
The glen broadens and the scenery changes to grassy meadows surrounded by wooded mountain slopes. Spot the Steall Falls directly ahead over the meadow, continue along the path towards it.
Follow the path until it reaches a bend where the glen curves round to the left and the path is close to the river. This is the best spot for admiring the waterfall. From here retrace your steps to the car park.
Note
Coordinates
Equipment
Sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes and a waterproof/wind-break layer are all required. The weather can change quickly so be sure to take all equipment even if the weather looks okay. A waterproof cover for your rucksack is also useful.Basic Equipment for Hiking
- Sturdy, comfortable and waterproof hiking boots or approach shoes
- Layered, moisture wicking clothing
- Hiking socks
- Rucksack (with rain cover)
- Protection against sun, rain and wind (hat, sunscreen, water- and windproof jacket and suitable legwear)
- Sunglasses
- Hiking poles
- Ample supply of drinking water and snacks
- First aid kit
- Kit para bolhas
- Bivy / survival bag
- Survival blanket
- Headlamp
- Pocket knife
- Whistle
- Cell phone
- Cash
- Navigation equipment / map and compass
- Emergency contact details
- ID
- The 'basic' and 'technical' equipment lists are generated based on the selected activity. They are not exhaustive and only serve as suggestions for what you should consider packing.
- For your safety, you should carefully read all instructions on how to properly use and maintain your equipment.
- Please ensure that the equipment you bring complies with local laws and does not include restricted items.
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