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Wailing Widow Falls Scotland

4.9
·372 reviews·, United Kingdom

A dramatic 50-foot cascade in the Scottish Highlands, shrouded in legend and accessible via a short, rugged trek.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime, cooler months

Fewer midges, better light

CrowdLow
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Wailing Widow Falls - Image 1

Wailing Widow Falls Scotland

Best Time

Daytime, cooler months

Fewer midges, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dramatic 50-foot cascade in the Scottish Highlands, shrouded in legend and accessible via a short, rugged trek.

4.9
(372 reviews)

"Stunning waterfall worth the short trek, a must-see along the NC500!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Rocky, muddy, and slippery path! Waterproof trekking shoes are a must for safety and comfort .

🚫 Midge Repellent

Midges can be a nuisance on warm days. Pack strong repellent to enjoy the falls without bites .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wailing Widow Falls

Wailing Widow Falls

Assynt, North West Highlands

A dramatic 50-foot cascade plunging into a narrow canyon, shrouded in local legend.

The Scenic Trek

The Scenic Trek

Path from parking area

A short, albeit rugged, 10-minute walk through stunning Highland scenery to reach the falls.

Views of Quinag

Views of Quinag

Above the falls

Sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Quinag mountain range add to the breathtaking landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Footwear is Key

The path to Wailing Widow Falls is notoriously rocky, muddy, and slippery. Prioritize sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes or boots for a safe and comfortable journey. Sneakers might be doable for some, but can lead to slips.Reddit

Midge Alert!

If visiting on a warm day, be prepared for midges, especially near the falls. Pack strong insect repellent to avoid bites and ensure a more pleasant experience. Consider visiting during cooler, breezier times if midges are a concern.Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime, cooler months
Why
Fewer midges, better light
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
More powerful cascade
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Almost didn’t see it #widomaker #trees #logging #hellofawaytodie
@shades_lb7
231.6K likes • 1.4M views

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Rocky, muddy, and slippery path! Waterproof trekking shoes are a must for safety and comfort.Reddit

🚫 Midge Repellent

Midges can be a nuisance on warm days. Pack strong repellent to enjoy the falls without bites.Reddit

The spectacular Wailing Widow Falls by @keirmathieson Accessible by a short ten-minute walk, the Wailing Widow Falls is a 50-foot drop of water, spilling out from Loch na Gainmhich, over a cliff edge and into a nearby canyon below. According to legend, the waterfall got its mysterious name from the tale of a deer hunter who plunged to his death whilst hunting centuries ago. His mother, wracked ...
hiddenscotland
38.3K likes • 680.7K views
Wailing Widow Falls #scotland #nc500 #scotlandexplore #scotlandtravel #scotlandhighlands
chrispaullawlor
1.2K likes • 33.4K views

🚗 Parking Options

Parking at the bottom can be tricky. Consider parking at the top near the loch for easier access.Reddit

📸 Capture the Drama

The falls are a spectacle! Bring your camera to capture the 50-foot drop and surrounding beauty.Instagram

What a view! 🤯🙌 Proof that the Wailing Widow Falls are a natural spectacle in the Highlands not to be missed 😉 Beautifully captured by @scottishhighlands81 in Assynt, North West Highlands 💙 ✅ Please be responsible as you explore Scotland. When using a drone, ensure you’re registered with the CAA and follow the Drone Code. #Scotland #VisitScotland #ScotlandExplore #UNESCOTrail @northwesthighland...
visitscotland
12.2K likes • 149.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Shoes Essential

Rocky, muddy, and slippery path! Waterproof trekking shoes are a must for safety and comfort.Reddit

🚫 Midge Repellent

Midges can be a nuisance on warm days. Pack strong repellent to enjoy the falls without bites.Reddit

🚗 Parking Options

Parking at the bottom can be tricky. Consider parking at the top near the loch for easier access.Reddit

📸 Capture the Drama

The falls are a spectacle! Bring your camera to capture the 50-foot drop and surrounding beauty.Instagram

🗺️ NC500 Stop

A perfect, easily accessible stop along the famous North Coast 500 route.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(372 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular Wailing Widow Falls, calling it a beautiful and worthwhile stop, especially along the NC500. The short, albeit rugged, 10-minute trek is consistently praised for its rewarding payoff. However, be prepared for muddy, slippery paths and potential midges on warmer days.

"Stunning waterfall a relatively easy walk into it, tho not ideal for anyone with mobility issues. The path in can be muddy so chose your footwear wisely. There are signs up it is a public water supply so not entering the water due to this it's not a good idea to take your dog unless you can keep them out the water."

CairnAlba GSDs

"This is located just off the main route of the NC 500 but along the alternative route.

There is parking at the side of the road for about 5 cars.

Its only a short hike but you would need walking boots as it gets a bit slippery. Its not the hardest small hike but not the easiest either. Total hike is about 100 yards or so.

Worth the hike though as its a fairly big waterfall and you can get quite close to it."

Solitaire

"Hidden gem in the Highlands!

Allt Chranaidh Waterfall was such a beautiful surprise! It’s tucked away in a peaceful spot, surrounded by nature and the sound of rushing water. The walk to the falls is short and really lovely you feel like you’ve stepped into your own little secret corner of Scotland.

The waterfall itself is stunning, especially after some rain when the flow is stronger. We spent a while just relaxing there, enjoying the scenery and the quiet. It’s not crowded at all, which makes it even more special. Definitely worth a stop if you’re exploring the area a real hidden treasure!"

Wolfgang Jakob

What People Like

Spectacular waterfall
Short, rewarding trek
Great NC500 stop

What People Dislike

Muddy, slippery path
Midges on warm days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wailing Widow Falls is located along the scenic North Coast 500 (NC500) route in the Scottish Highlands.Instagram You can drive to a parking area near the falls. There are options to park at the bottom, though this can be limited, or at the top near Loch na Gainmhich, which offers access to views from above.Reddit

Public transport options to reach Wailing Widow Falls are limited. It's best accessed by car, especially if you are traveling the NC500. Consider a guided tour if you prefer not to drive.

Most visitors park near the falls and take a short, approximately 10-15 minute walk. The path is described as rocky, muddy, and slippery, so appropriate footwear is crucial.Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, spaces at the bottom can be limited. Many visitors opt to park at the top near the loch, which still provides access to the falls.Reddit There are typically no parking charges.

Absolutely! Wailing Widow Falls is a popular and easily accessible stop along the iconic North Coast 500 route, making it a great addition to any NC500 itinerary.Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Wailing Widow Falls. It is a natural attraction accessible to the public.Reddit

Wailing Widow Falls is a natural outdoor attraction and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.

There is no admission fee to visit Wailing Widow Falls. It's a free natural attraction for all to enjoy.Reddit

Yes, Wailing Widow Falls can be visited year-round. However, conditions can vary significantly with the seasons. Winter visits may involve icy paths, while summer can bring midges.Reddit

While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are encouraged to be responsible and respect the natural environment. Drone usage may be subject to regulations.Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The walk from the parking area to Wailing Widow Falls is quite short, typically taking about 10 to 15 minutes.Reddit It's a quick and rewarding trek.

The path is described as rocky, muddy, and often slippery, with loose stones. It's not a paved path and requires careful footing.Reddit Some scrambling over rocks might be necessary.

The walk can be challenging for very young children or older pets due to the uneven and slippery terrain. However, a 10-year-old collie managed well, while an older collie struggled with the rocky parts and needed carrying.Reddit Always supervise children and pets closely.

The falls are named after a legend of a deer hunter who tragically fell to his death. His mother is said to have come to the falls to weep, giving it the name 'Wailing Widow'.Instagram+2

The proper name for Wailing Widow Falls is the Loch na Gainmhich Waterfall, or Allt Chranaidh Waterfall. 'Loch na Gainmhich' is Scottish Gaelic for 'the Sandy Loch'.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The most dramatic shots are of the 50-foot waterfall itself as it plunges into the canyon.Instagram The surrounding Highland scenery, including views of Quinag, also offers stunning photographic potential.Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the falls are impressive throughout the day. Be mindful of the sun's position for avoiding harsh shadows.Instagram

Drone usage is possible, but always ensure you are registered with the CAA and follow the Drone Code. Be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet surfaces and enhance the sky.Instagram

You can capture the falls from the path leading up to it, and from the top near the loch. Experiment with different angles to find the most compelling shots.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wailing Widow Falls offers a rewarding short adventure for families. The 10-15 minute trek is manageable for most children, but be prepared for the rocky and slippery terrain.Reddit Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for everyone to prevent slips and falls. While the path can be challenging, the sight of the waterfall is captivating for all ages. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, and definitely pack midge repellent for warmer days.Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers on the NC500

For those traversing the North Coast 500, Wailing Widow Falls is an unmissable, easily accessible stop. It requires minimal time commitment but delivers maximum scenic impact.Instagram The short walk from the parking area means you can easily incorporate it into your driving day without significant delays. It's a perfect spot for a quick photo opportunity and to witness a dramatic natural feature of the Scottish Highlands.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

While the walk is short, the rugged terrain offers a touch of adventure for hikers.Reddit The falls themselves are a beautiful natural spectacle, and the surrounding scenery, including views of Quinag, adds to the appeal. It's a great spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for potential midge encounters.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Wailing Widow

The evocative name 'Wailing Widow Falls' stems from a poignant local legend. The most commonly shared tale speaks of a young deer hunter who, while pursuing his quarry on a day with poor visibility, tragically fell to his death from the cliff edge. It is said that his grieving mother would visit the falls to mourn, her cries echoing through the glen, thus giving the waterfall its melancholic moniker.Instagram+2 This folklore adds a layer of mystique and historical depth to the natural beauty of the falls.

While the legend is captivating, the waterfall's 'proper' name is Loch na Gainmhich Waterfall, or Allt Chranaidh Waterfall. 'Loch na Gainmhich' translates from Scottish Gaelic to 'the Sandy Loch,' referencing the nearby body of water.Instagram+1 The dual naming highlights how local stories and official designations can coexist, enriching the cultural tapestry of the area.

Navigating the Terrain: A Hiker's Guide

The journey to Wailing Widow Falls, though short, is an adventure in itself. Visitors consistently describe the path as rocky, muddy, and slippery.Reddit This isn't a gentle stroll; it requires a degree of sure-footedness and careful navigation. Loose stones are common, and the damp conditions can make even familiar steps treacherous. Sensible footwear is not just recommended, it's essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.Reddit

Many travelers have successfully navigated the path in everyday sneakers, indicating it's doable for those with good balance. However, for maximum safety and comfort, especially if the weather has been wet, waterproof trekking shoes or boots are the superior choice. The effort is widely considered worth it, with the stunning cascade serving as a rewarding destination after the brief trek.Reddit

The North Coast 500 Connection

Wailing Widow Falls is a gem nestled along the world-renowned North Coast 500 (NC500) route, Scotland's ultimate road trip.Instagram Its accessibility makes it an ideal stop for travelers exploring this breathtaking coastal circuit. The falls offer a dramatic natural spectacle that perfectly complements the rugged landscapes and charming villages that define the NC500 experience.Instagram

Many visitors discover the falls serendipitously while driving the NC500, often finding it a welcome and easily accessible detour. The short walk from the roadside parking means you can experience its beauty without a significant time commitment, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs and capture some memorable photos during your journey.Instagram+1

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