Steall Falls, Glen Nevis Valley

Steall Falls, Glen Nevis Gorge – 5km trail from Steall Falls Carpark

Deep in the heart of Glen Nevis just a stone’s throw away from Fort William in the Scottish Highlands lies one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the UK, Steall Falls. Also known in Gaelic as An Steall Bàn (“The White Spout”), at 120 meters tall, it’s the second-highest waterfall in Scotland and the whole of the UK.

The walk to reach Steall Falls takes you through the stunning Nevis Gorge, weaving alongside the rushing River Nevis below. Clambering over rocky paths and through ancient woodland, the trail itself is a 2–4 miles round trip starting at the Steall Falls carpark and takes roughly 1.5–3 hours depending on pace and stops. For a longer trek, you can park at and take in the Lower falls where there is also a bus stop with a regular from nearby Fort William.

For those with strong nerves and who love a challenge, you can use the wire rope bridge to cross the river, a popular thrill for young and old alike. Cross it for a close-up view at the base of the falls, or simply enjoy the view from the meadow if heights aren’t your thing. As it was a rainy day and very slippery under foot, my attempt at crossing the wire bridge was cut short as I didn’t fancy an unplanned dip in the river below, choosing instead to ford the shallow river further up across the meadow to reach the base of the falls.

Steall Falls has also become a favourite among film fans, featuring as a backdrop in a few Harry Potter movies thanks to its fairytale vibe and dramatic scenery. Best visited after rainfall when the cascade is at full force, this is a spot that is a must-see for anyone exploring the Highlands.