Lower Falls Glen Nevis
A spectacular cascade in a rugged canyon, offering easy walks, refreshing dips, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Lower Falls Glen Nevis
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spectacular cascade in a rugged canyon, offering easy walks, refreshing dips, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
"Gorgeous water and green space, nice easy walk along the small waterfalls."
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the main car park for convenience, but be mindful of passing places if parking roadside.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be rough and slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lower Falls Cascade
Glen Nevis
A powerful, multi-tiered waterfall tumbling through a rocky gorge, offering breathtaking natural beauty.
Scenic River Path
Beside the River Nevis
An accessible and stunning route offering panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding landscape.
Rocky Canyon Views
Glen Nevis
Dramatic rock formations and lush greenery create a captivating natural amphitheater around the falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Getting There and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the main car park for convenience, but be mindful of passing places if parking roadside.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be rough and slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential.
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera! The scenery is spectacular, especially after rain.
🚌 Public Transport Option
Consider the Shiel bus service from Fort William for scenic views without driving.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Use the main car park for convenience, but be mindful of passing places if parking roadside.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be rough and slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential.
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera! The scenery is spectacular, especially after rain.
🚌 Public Transport Option
Consider the Shiel bus service from Fort William for scenic views without driving.
💧 Water Activities
Crystal clear water with spots for sunbathing and diving, but be cautious of currents.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty of Lower Falls Glen Nevis, highlighting the gorgeous water, clear pools, and picturesque rocky canyon. The easy walking paths and opportunities for sunbathing and diving are frequently mentioned positives. While parking is generally available, some note that informal roadside parking can be disruptive.
"Gorgeous water and green space, nice easy walk along the small waterfalls. Many spots to sunbathe and dive into the water. Crystal clear water, beautiful colourful stones.
Many free parking opportunities along the road, otherwise there is the big car park pay and display at the beginning of the walk."
Aida Ruci
"Great, little stop, excellent. If you enjoy hiking, we only walked about half a mile, but large carpark with toilets and picnic area."
steve rawlings
"Even if you are not a walker, for £6.60 return from Fort William to Lower Falls, on service 42 provided by Shiel buses, you will see some spectacular views. Here’s my views from today’s trip. Thank you"
Jason Hackett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to the Lower Falls car park (postcode PH33 6SY). Alternatively, Shiel buses (service 42) run from Fort William to Lower Falls, offering a scenic return journey for around £6.60.
Yes, the Shiel bus service 42 from Fort William stops at Lower Falls, making it accessible without a car.
The postcode for the lower falls car park in Glen Nevis is PH33 6SY.
Yes, Lower Falls is a great starting point for the Nevis Gorge Hike, with trails leading up to a rope bridge and further waterfalls.
While cycling is possible, the paths can be rough. The main road offers access, and there's a bike shack at the car park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the falls and surrounding natural areas is generally free. However, the main car park operates on a pay-and-display system, costing around £3 for 6 hours.
Lower Falls Glen Nevis is a natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, car park facilities may have specific operating hours.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Lower Falls Glen Nevis as it is a natural outdoor attraction. Parking fees apply at the main car park.
Yes, there are toilets available at the main car park at the beginning of the walk.
The main car park at Lower Falls Glen Nevis is a pay-and-display car park, typically costing around £3 for 6 hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a short, easy walk along the river to see the small waterfalls, sunbathe, or even dive into the crystal-clear water. It's also a great spot for photography and a starting point for longer hikes.
The walk from the car park to the Lower Falls is generally considered easy and pleasant, with stunning views along the river path.
Yes, many visitors enjoy swimming and diving in the crystal-clear water, but caution is advised due to potential currents.
Expect gorgeous water, lush green spaces, a rocky canyon, and beautiful colorful stones. The views are spectacular, especially along the river path.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for landscape photographers, especially after rain when the falls are more dramatic. 
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light. After rain, the falls are at their most powerful and dramatic, making for stunning shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and canyon. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light.
The path alongside the river offers numerous viewpoints. The road bridge also provides a good vantage point.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and respect privacy before flying a drone in the area.
The combination of the powerful waterfall, rocky gorge, lush greenery, and the clear river makes it a visually dynamic and beautiful location for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main falls are impressive, consider the shorter, more accessible parts of the Nevis Gorge for younger children. The wire bridge leading to Steall Falls might be too adventurous for very young ones, but the initial part of the gorge walk offers plenty of wonder without the extreme elements. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, as the paths can be uneven.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the main trails, the area is rich with diverse flora and fauna, making it a delight for nature lovers. The clear waters are inviting for a refreshing dip on a warm day, and the rocky terrain offers a sense of wildness. Remember to pack layers, as Highland weather can change rapidly, and always be prepared with water and snacks for longer excursions.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different angles from the river path or the road bridge. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the falls and the surrounding gorge. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing smooth water effects and for shooting in lower light conditions. Be prepared for spray and bring lens cloths to keep your equipment clean.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nevis Gorge
For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, some brave souls have been seen performing cliff jumping and double backflips near the bridges in Glen Nevis. While this is certainly not for everyone, it highlights the adventurous spirit of the area. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings if you choose to explore beyond the main paths.
The natural beauty of Glen Nevis is a major draw, with its clear waters, colorful stones, and vibrant green landscapes. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature, whether you're picnicking by the river or simply taking in the views.
Photography Opportunities
+1Many photographers recommend visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. However, even on overcast or rainy days, the falls can be incredibly photogenic, with the water appearing more intense. The river path leading to the falls also offers numerous opportunities for landscape shots, capturing the winding river and the surrounding Highland scenery.
+1Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the falls and the gorge, and a tripod can be invaluable for longer exposures, especially if you want to smooth out the water's movement. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, as the spray from the waterfall can be significant.
Accessibility and Local Transport
For those without a car, the Shiel bus service (route 42) provides a viable public transport option from Fort William. This bus journey itself offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making the travel part of the experience.
It's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned parking in informal passing places along the road. While this might seem convenient, it can cause issues for local traffic, so using the designated car park is generally recommended. The walk from the car park to the falls is described as easy and rewarding, with stunning views along the way.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit