Wednesday, 01 September 2021
The Year of Coasts & Waters has...
Dog Falls
Dog Falls
Where we are
COVID-19 update
- Read our COVID-19 Information in advance of your visit.
- Most of our forests and facilities are open, but use our website to check before you travel.
- Do not light campfires or use disposable barbecues.
- Park considerately, taking care not to park on verges or block gates or roads.
- Take care on or around open water. Find out more on our Water Safety page.
About
Picnic by rushing rapids, with glorious woodland walks
The first car park you come to in Glen Affric is the perfect place to start. You can explore the rapids and still, dark pools of Dog Falls, picnic beneath the pine trees by Coire Loch, or climb to a fine view up the glen.
The forest is a mixture of gnarled old Scots pine (often called ‘granny pines’), shining silver birch, oaks covered in slow, grey lichen and pine saplings with needles which are almost luminous.
Walking trails (3)
Walking
Viewpoint Trail
Climb through the forest and drink in the views over Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhain to the breathtaking mountains beyond.
Mostly wide, firm gravel surface. Short narrow section with exposed tree roots and uneven stone steps. Long fairly sleep slope for half a mile.
1 ¾ miles / 2.9 km
Allow 1 hour
More information
This classic viewpoint is deservedly a popular place for photographers.
Walking
Dog Falls Trail
A trail notice is in effect
Some sections of the Dog Falls Trail are rough and uneven. We hope to repair these as soon as possible.
Follow the foam-flecked river downstream to feel the awesome power of the falls as they tumble into a deep gorge.
Long sections of uneven gravel paths with some rocky sections and steps. Long steep slopes for 500m. Includes a narrow bridge and two road crossings. Walk anti-clockwise for a less steep climb.
2 miles / 3.2 km
Allow 1¼ hours
More information
From the viewpoint overlooking the falls you might be hypnotised by the whisky-coloured water rushing through the canyon. If you want a shorter route, going just to the falls and back will take about ½ hour.
Walking
Coire Loch Trail
Fall under Glen Affric's spell on this magical walk through a patchwork forest of ancient pines and birches. Discover a secluded little lochan and a wonderful viewpoint above.
Narrow and uneven gravel path with exposed tree roots and rough rocky sections. Long steep slopes for 500m. Includes a narrow bridge, road crossings and several sets of stone steps.
2 ¾ miles / 4.5 km
Allow 1½ hours
More information
Coire loch appears like a hidden treasure among the trees: in summer it’s covered in water lilies, and dragonflies dart over the water. On the way back to the car park you’ll find signposts along the forest track that bring some of the glen’s creatures to life.
Facilities and access
Facilities
Much of the road through the glen is single track, like many Highland roads. Drive slowly, and pull over to let other cars pass at the passing places.
Glen Affric is a place to leave the bustle of the modern world behind – including its technology! There is no mobile phone reception in the glen, so you won’t be able to use electronic maps that rely on a network connection.
Car parking information
The charges to park at Dog Falls are:
Payment options: Coin only
- £1 for up to 1 hour
- £1.50 for up to 3 hours
- £2 for all day
- £8 for minibus all day
- This car park is not suitable for coaches
- Still have time left on your ticket? Tickets purchased at Dog Falls are also valid at River Affric, so make the most of your trip and visit the neighbouring forest.
Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our local forest list without the £ symbol.
Annual parking pass available:
- £40 car, £100 mini-bus/coach (valid for 12 months)
- Available in advance by downloading the application form and emailing/posting to the Regional Office.
- Please read our Annual Pass terms and conditions before applying.
- Valid at the following sites: Dog Falls & River Affric
Blue badge holders park free. Please display your Blue Badge clearly.
Find somewhere to eat
You’ll find places to eat in Cannich or Tomich and a shop in Cannich. There are no cafés or shops in Glen Affric itself.
Getting here
Using SatNav?
IV4 7LN is the postcode for the centre of Cannich village. Follow directions above from there.
Public transport
Buses run from Inverness to Tomich and Cannich throughout the year. For details visit Traveline Scotland.
Nearby forests
A lochside picnic spot with gentle woodland paths
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Dog Falls': 2.04 miles
One of Scotland’s most spectacular waterfalls
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Dog Falls': 2.74 miles
A rushing river, the gateway to Glen Affric
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Dog Falls': 4.49 miles
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