Dog Falls
COVID-19 update
All FLS visitor centres are currently closed. Walking and mountain bike trails remain open, as do most toilets and car parks, but do check below for local updates for closures.
We want to ensure your visit is an enjoyable and safe one.
Make sure you follow the Scottish Government’s FACTS advice – helping to protect yourself, your family and your local community, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code helping to keep Scotland beautiful.
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.
Our guide to Glen Affric (PDF 4.6MB)
Walking trails
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.
Allow 1 hour
This classic viewpoint is deservedly a popular place for photographers.
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.
Allow 1¼ hours
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.
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.
Allow 1½ hours
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 & 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
Try to get here early - it can get busy on fine weekends and in summer. The car park is not suitable for coaches.
Please remember to bring change for the parking meter, as card payments are not available here. Parking charges are as follows:
- £1 for up to 1 hour
- £1.50 for up to 3 hours
- £2 for all day
- £8 for minibus and coach all day
Annual passes are also available at the following prices:
- £40 for cars
- £100 for mini-bus/coach
For more information please contact us.
Working Together: Your parking payments help to maintain facilities in Glen Affric. We work closely with the Glen Affric Community Partnership to agree how we spend this money.
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.
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.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?