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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer midges, better light

Wailing Widow Falls Scotland
Best Time
Fewer midges, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic 50-foot cascade in the Scottish Highlands, shrouded in legend and accessible via a short, rugged trek.
"Stunning waterfall worth the short trek, a must-see along the NC500!"

👟 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 .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wailing Widow Falls
Assynt, North West Highlands
A dramatic 50-foot cascade plunging into a narrow canyon, shrouded in local legend.

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
Above the falls
Sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Quinag mountain range add to the breathtaking landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Midge Alert!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
🚗 Parking Options
Parking at the bottom can be tricky. Consider parking at the top near the loch for easier access.
📸 Capture the Drama
The falls are a spectacle! Bring your camera to capture the 50-foot drop and surrounding beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 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.
🚗 Parking Options
Parking at the bottom can be tricky. Consider parking at the top near the loch for easier access.
📸 Capture the Drama
The falls are a spectacle! Bring your camera to capture the 50-foot drop and surrounding beauty.
🗺️ NC500 Stop
A perfect, easily accessible stop along the famous North Coast 500 route.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wailing Widow Falls is located along the scenic North Coast 500 (NC500) route in the Scottish Highlands. 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.
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.
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. 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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from the parking area to Wailing Widow Falls is quite short, typically taking about 10 to 15 minutes. 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. 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. 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'.
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'.
📸 📸 Photography
The most dramatic shots are of the 50-foot waterfall itself as it plunges into the canyon. The surrounding Highland scenery, including views of Quinag, also offers stunning photographic potential.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers on the NC500
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Wailing Widow
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. 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
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.
The North Coast 500 Connection
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit