Steall Falls, Glen Nevis

The walk to Steall Falls through the Nevis Gorge is one of the finest short walks in the Scottish Highlands, combining dramatic gorge scenery with one of Britain's highest waterfalls. The walk begins at the road end car park in Glen Nevis, approximately two miles south of the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre at Fort William. From the car park a clear path enters the dramatic Nevis Gorge, where the Water of Nevis has carved a deep channel through ancient schist. The gorge is enclosed and impressive — the path clings to the steep southern wall with the river crashing far below through falls and rapids. Native woodland of birch, rowan, and hazel clothes the gorge walls, and dippers are regularly seen on the river below. After approximately a mile the gorge opens suddenly and spectacularly into the broad flat floor of Coire a' Mhail — a classic glacial hanging valley. Across the valley floor, Steall Falls drops 120 metres down the northern headwall in a single dramatic plunge, the second highest waterfall in Scotland. A wire rope bridge — three cables, one underfoot and one on each side — crosses the river and gives access to the base of the falls. This bridge requires balance and nerve and is not suitable for young children or those with a fear of heights. The round trip is approximately three and a half kilometres with 100 metres of ascent and takes between one and a half and two and a half hours. The car park charges a fee and fills quickly; an early arrival is strongly recommended in summer.