Falls of Falloch

Falls of Falloch is a waterfall on the River Falloch in Glen Falloch, inside Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park in the Stirling council area of Scotland. It sits beside the A82, about 7 km (4 miles) south-west of the village of Crianlarich and close to the hamlet of Inverarnan. It is a popular roadside beauty spot and also a landmark on the West Highland Way.

Where is it and how do you get there?

The falls lie in the upper part of Glen Falloch, north of Loch Lomond. The easiest approach is by car on the A82, the main road between Glasgow and Fort William, which makes this a simple stop on a Highlands drive. The coordinates are roughly 56.350 N, 4.691 W. From Crianlarich it takes only a few minutes, and from Inverarnan even less.

What is the walk like?

A short path leads from the roadside parking area down towards the river. You do not need any climbing, but the ground can be muddy and slippery, particularly after rain, so wear shoes with a good grip. Take care near the rock edges: the banks are steep and the river runs hard when in spate.

You can also arrive on foot from Inverarnan. Walkers describe a route that starts at the hotel car park there, passes the Beinglas campsite and follows the river to the falls. This stretch is part of the West Highland Way, the long-distance trail from Milngavie to Fort William.

What will you see?

Here the Falloch drops in a cascade over stepped rock into a deep, dark pool ringed by trees and boulders. The scene is classic Scottish Highlands: wet stones, moss, birch and oak, and hills rising on every side. After heavy rain the water is wide and loud; in dry spells it calms down and the shape of the rock is easier to read.

Photographers often prefer early spring or late autumn, when the trees are not in full leaf and block less of the view. Paths along the river allow a short loop around the site.

When should you visit?

The falls can be visited all year and there is no entry charge. Water volume is usually highest after rain, so autumn and winter are the most dramatic seasons, though paths are slipperiest then. Summer is more comfortable underfoot but busier beside the A82, especially at weekends. Bring a waterproof jacket, since Highland weather changes fast.

What else can you combine with the visit?

The falls fit neatly into a day in the national park: Loch Lomond lies to the south, while to the north the road continues past Crianlarich towards Glen Coe and Fort William. Hillwalkers can add a section of the West Highland Way stage from Inverarnan to Bridge of Orchy, which follows Glen Falloch and is considered gentle underfoot.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The waterfall is in open national park land and can be viewed free of charge.

Is the walk difficult?

No, it is a short stroll from the road. Just watch for mud, wet rocks and steep riverbanks.

Can you walk to the falls from Inverarnan?

Yes. The riverside route passes the Beinglas campsite and forms part of the West Highland Way.

When are the best photos taken?

In early spring and late autumn, when the trees are bare and the river carries more water after rain.