Dog Falls

Dog Falls is a run of cascades on the River Affric in Glen Affric, close to Tomich in the Scottish Highlands. The falls lie inside the Glen Affric National Nature Reserve, run by Forestry and Land Scotland, and the car park here is one of the main bases for walks in the glen.

What will you see at Dog Falls?

The Affric squeezes into a narrow rocky channel and drops in several steps beneath old Scots pines and birches. Waymarked paths lead to viewpoints above the gorge, where you can watch the churning water. After rain the flow is much stronger. It is a short, easy stop that suits a family outing as well as the start of a longer day in the glen.

Which trails start from the car park?

Forestry and Land Scotland marks three routes from the same spot:

• Viewpoint Trail: about 2.9 km (1¾ miles), a stroll to the lookouts.
• Dog Falls Trail: about 3.2 km (2 miles), a loop past the falls; going only to the cascades and back takes roughly half an hour.
• Coire Loch Trail: about 4.5 km (2¾ miles), graded strenuous, with a narrow uneven path, exposed roots and rocky sections; allow about an hour and a half.

Walkers who combine the falls with Coire Loch typically report 6 to 7 km.

How do you get to Dog Falls?

From Cannich and Tomich you follow the glen road, which is single-track with passing places, so drive slowly and give way to oncoming traffic. The car park is large, with toilets and picnic tables, and several accounts describe it as pay and display with a coin machine. Bring change and check current rules before you travel. The site sits at roughly 57.313 N, 4.847 W.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to autumn is easiest, with dry paths and green or autumn-coloured woods. Winter walks are popular too, but the trails can be cold and slippery. Heavy rain makes the falls most impressive, yet roots and rock on the paths turn slick, so wear sturdy footwear.

Are there works on the trails?

An archived page from the land manager mentioned a planned car park extension, trail upgrades and a footbridge replacement. Details may have changed, so check Forestry and Land Scotland for notices before you go.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I allow at Dog Falls? Seeing the cascades takes about half an hour. The Dog Falls Trail takes a little over an hour, and the Coire Loch Trail around an hour and a half.

Is there an entry fee? Access to the reserve is free. A charge applies to parking where it is in force, so check the signs on site.

Are there toilets and picnic spots? Yes, the car park has toilets and picnic tables.

Is it suitable for families? The short trails by the falls are easy. The Coire Loch Trail is tougher and better suited to confident walkers.