Thursday, 18 April 2024
An ancie...
Falls of Shin
Falls of Shin
Where we are
Latest forest information
Open water
- This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.
About
Ancient woodland, Atlantic salmon and thundering falls
Follow the winding road through Achany Glen to a forest clearing where salmon leap and children play. You've reached the Falls of Shin, a wonderful starting point for a range of trails through beautiful mixed woodland and along the rocky banks of the Shin. It's a great place to get out and enjoy the forest whatever your ability – there are natural play areas here and easy trails suitable for all users.
Walking trails
Falls of Shin route card (PDF)
Walking
Riverside Trail
Wander through native woodlands along the River Shin and look out for the shimmering of the aspen trees.
Firm gravel surface throughout. Some slightly uneven and overgrown grassy sections. Includes a number of short fairly steep slopes and two road crossings.
½ miles / 1.0 km
Allow ½ hour
More information
This is one of only 14 places in the UK where the endangered aspen hoverfly survives. It relies on a constant supply of decaying aspen so we try to leave dead wood where it falls.
Walking
Pond and Play Trail
Search for colourful dragonflies and hidden wildlife carvings. Let your imagination run wild in the forest walk play areas.
Uneven gravel and grassy surface throughout. Moderate slopes with some short steeper sections.
¾ miles / 1.3 km
Allow ½ hour
Walking
Woodland Trail
Climb up through larch, fir and pine forest for great views across Achany Glen. Look and listen for buzzards and woodpeckers.
Uneven gravel and grassy path. Long moderate slopes for up to 600m with several short steeper sections.
1 ¼ miles / 2.0 km
Allow ¾ hour
More information
Lose yourself in towering conifer trees and shady glades where small birds forage for food. There are rugged natural play areas along the way, tremendous fun for children and adults. If you want to explore further by bike or on foot there's access to the forest road network here.
Facilities and access
Café
The Falls of Shin café and toilets are owned by the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, and are currently closed. A coffee van will be at the site during peak times. Please see the K.o.S.D.T. website for details.
On the K.o.S.D.T. website you will also find details of the new campervan facilities, including a waste disposal point and charging points.
Life's essentials
You'll find public toilets and more places to eat in Bonar Bridge and Lairg.
Car parking information
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Getting here
From Bonar Bridge take the A836 north west for 4 miles (6.4 km), turning left onto the A837 towards Lochinver. After ¾ mile (800 metres) turn right onto the B864; the car park is on your left after 1¼ miles (2 km).
From Lairg follow the A839 south west for ¾ mile (1.2 km) and turn left onto the B864. The Falls of Shin car park is on your right after 4 miles (6.4 km).
Using SatNav?
Nearest postcode: IV27 4EE
Public transport
An infrequent bus service between Tain and Lairg stops at the Falls of Shin. See Traveline Scotland for details.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6100 (option 2)
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