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Dog Falls

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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

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.

Walking trails

Dog Falls route card (PDF)

Walking

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.

Strenuous trail grade icon grade icon
1 ¾ miles / 2.9 km

Allow 1 hour

More information

This classic viewpoint is deservedly a popular place for photographers.

Walking

Dog Falls Trail

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.

Strenuous trail grade icon grade icon
2 miles / 3.2 km

Allow 1 ¼ hours

More information

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.

Walking

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.

Strenuous trail grade icon grade icon
2 ¾ miles / 4.5 km

Allow 1 ½ hours

More information

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 and access

Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Toilets
Toilets
Picnic area
Picnic area

Public toilets are available all year round at the Dog Falls car park.

Much of the road through the glen is single track, like many Highland roads. Drive slowly, and pull over to the left 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 information

Payment options: Coin or RingGo

The charges to park at Dog Falls are:

  • £3 for all day
  • £12 per minibus all day
  • This car park is not suitable for coaches
  • 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.

Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our local forest list without the £ symbol. 

Annual parking pass available:

Available in advance by downloading the relevant application form and emailing to the Regional Office. Please read our Annual Pass terms and conditions before applying.

North Car Park Pass - £40 per car and £100 per mini-bus or coach
FLS National Car Park Pass - £100 per car and £150 per mini bus or coach

Valid at all Forestry and Land Scotland car parks except Tentsmuir.

FLS National Pass application form

More parking info

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 directions

Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6100 (option 1)
More contact information

Nearby forests

Drooping conifer branch

One of Scotland’s most spectacular waterfalls

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Picnic area
Picnic area
Parking
Parking
Distance from 'Plodda Falls': 2.75 miles
Drooping conifer branch

A lochside picnic spot with gentle woodland paths

Facilities and activities
Walking
Walking
Picnic area
Picnic area
Parking
Parking
Distance from 'Loch Beinn a’Mheadhain': 2.78 miles
Drooping conifer branch

A rushing river, the gateway to Glen Affric

Facilities and activities
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Walking
Walking
Easy-access facilities
Easy-access facilities
Parking (charge)
Parking (charge)
Toilets
Toilets
Picnic area
Picnic area
Distance from 'River Affric': 5.94 miles