Day 1
Big Burn Waterfall Walk, East Sutherland
Be transported into a world of magic through the serene forest trail to Big Burn. This is one of the most picturesque of waterfall walks on the East Coast of Sutherland, and is just a quick stop off from the North Coast 500, meaning you don’t have to venture too far to discover this hidden gem.
This tranquil trail starts in the charming village of Golspie, where this well-marked walk will take you through dramatic gorges to reach the infamous Big Burn Waterfall, and return, in only 1.75 miles. While the waterfall itself is something to be marvelled at, you’ll find the walk alone treasured with fascinating details to keep your mind and body wandering. Walk under the towering railway arch, catch a glimpse of the historic Golspie Mill, pass over quaint footbridges nestled among the trees, and don’t forget to keep a keen eye and ear for playing wildlife, both underfoot and overhead!
Distance: 3km / 1.75 miles
Terrain: Clear path throughout woodlands with some steep slopes and steps.
Find out more about this trail on the Walk Highlands website.
Day 2
Take to the peaceful heart of Sutherland, treasured with beautiful hidden waterfall walks, favoured by residents and visitors from all over Scotland.
Invercassley Falls on the Rosehall Trail, Central Sutherland
On your first walk of the area, you’ll visit the Rosehall trails, which will take you out to the undisturbed Cassley Falls. You’ll be welcomed by a series of crystal-clear pools, surrounded by a dramatic gorge with fairytale-like stone steps carved into the rock, so remember to watch your step! Listen carefully, the only sound you’ll hear is the melodic rush of water tumbling down the rocks and the rustling of leaves overhead.
This walk also welcomes a historic aspect. Along your 2-and-a-half-mile stroll through open fields and nature filled woodland, you’ll pass through an ancient cemetery and sites of Pictich Brochs from times gone by. This land is steeped in history and people have lived here for millennia, fished this river, and gained sustenance from its waters.
At the start of this walk you’ll find a purpose built car-park, which features a community-built log cabin, full of information relating to the waterfall and other nearby walks, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on anything of interest. You even have the option to combine these trails into a longer route, offering a chance to experience some of the most scenic nature and cascading waterfalls the Rosehall area has to offer.
Distance: 4km / 2.5 miles
Terrain: Good clear path with steep stone steps to near the river.
Find out more about this trail on the Walk Highlands website.
Falls of Shin Walks & Visitor Centre, Central Sutherland
We’ve explored some history in the heart of Sutherland, now time to see what our wildlife has to offer. Make your way just 10 miles from Rosehall, towards Lairg, where you’ll find a favourite spot among locals at the Falls of Shin.
You’ll soon be captivated by this natural spectacle. The Falls of Shin are famed for their leaping Atlantic Salmon, with dramatic shows almost guaranteed between the months of May and September. The dedicated viewing platform offers visitors a clear glimpse of the determination and strength of the salmon, fighting powerful upstream currents to make the dangerous journey to their spawning grounds.
The viewing platform lies just below the road and dedicated car park, but the area is also rich in gravel trails through mixed forests of aspen, larch and fir. Choose from the abundance of trails and take in the combined wonders of the waterfall, vibrant nature, and stunning views of Achany Glen near Lairg. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can even visit the onsite café and shop – this magical place really does tick all of the boxes.
Distance: 3.25 km / 2 miles
Terrain: Good quality way-marked path throughout.
Find out more about this trail on the Walk Highlands Website.
Day 3
The unique and rugged landscape of the West Coast of Sutherland creates the perfect stage for some of the best waterfall walks and hikes in the Scottish Highlands. Deep carved glens and sudden drops from shimmering lochs boast some of the most breathtaking falls in the country, framed by wild beauty and weather.
Falls of Kirkaig Walk, North-West Sutherland
Assynt isn’t just famous for its mountains and beaches; there are rivers and falls too. This waterfall walk near Lochinver, takes you part way along one of the access paths to one of the area’s most famous hills, Suilven, from the hamlet of Inverkirkaig. The walk passes through mixed forest and you might even spot the occasional adder on a warm summer’s day, but only if you’re quiet. The falls are spectacular, but take care on the steep path down to the gorge.
Distance: 7km / 4.25 miles
Terrain: Well marked but rocky path with a steep drop to the falls where care should be taken.
Find out more about this trail on the Walk Highlands Website.
Britain’s Highest Waterfall & Wailing Widow Falls, North-West Sutherland
Finish your trip on a high – literally! Eas a’ Chual Aluinn is otherwise known as Britain’s highest waterfall, which is over three times the height of Niagara Falls when in full flow, and boasts views that will take your breath away too. It’s a challenging and relatively exposed trek and extreme care is needed as you approach the top of the falls, but we guarantee the rewards are worth the extra effort.
The less surefooted may prefer to marvel at the Wailing Widow Falls which you’ll find not far from the same car park as the Eas a’ Chual Aluinn Waterfall walk, another stop just off the North Coast 500. Here you’ll find a dramatic 50-foot drop, which gained its name from the tragic ancient legend of a grieving mother who threw herself from the top after her son fell to his death in a hunting accident.
Whether you’re chasing misty cascades through ancient woodland, or standing in awe before towering torrents carved into ancient rockfaces, the endless number of waterfall walks in Sutherland offers something truly unforgettable. Each trail reveals a different side of the region’s beauty, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature. So lace up your boots, pack your camera, and let the rhythm of rushing water guide your journey through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.