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Wailing Widow Falls & Loch Na Gainmhich: How to Get There

  • 10th November 2021
  • 3 minute read
Wailing Widow Falls in Scotland
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You’d assume that finding beauty, such as the Wailing Widow Falls, would only result from a long and enduring hike beforehand. As remote as Loch Na Gainmhich is, the whole area and its spectacular water features are actually fairly accessible and are only a short walk away!

Wailing Widow Falls is an unmissable 30-metre waterfall that spills from Loch Na Gainmhich down to a narrow valley below. When there is a good flow of water, this place is seriously impressive!… Especially with Scotland’s classic mountainous backdrop!

Although this waterfall is relatively unheard of, those that have visited are likely to argue that the Wailing Widow Falls is the most beautiful waterfall in Scotland!

Drone Shot of the Loch Na Gainmhich

Where is the Wailing Widow Falls?

The waterfall is perfect for anyone driving around the North Coast 500, or simply just visiting the Scottish Highlands. Wailing Widow can be located along the A894 past Ullapool, between Kylesku Bridge and Ardvreck Castle.

It’s worth noting that the waterfall is not visible from the road, nor are there any signposts, facilities or obvious dedicated car parking spots. So pay attention!.. This hidden gem is easily missed!

See Also: Scotland's Most Photogenic Shipwreck (Old Boat of Caol)

How to Get to the Wailing Widow Falls

The route to the Wailing Widow Falls depends on the view you’d like to experience. The most common viewpoint is from the bottom. Though some prefer to witness the falls from a higher vantage point at the top of the falls or around the top of the valley, where Loch Na Gainmhich can also be admired.

Important Note: There is no safety barrier at the top, or solid path at the bottom. Therefore, this adventure is not advised for those with children, prams, or those with particular mobility needs. 
Drone Shot of Katie at the top of the Wailing Widow Falls

The Walk to the Base

Approximate Walk Time: 10-20 minutes (One Way)

To walk to the bottom of the falls, you are better parking here. Please tuck your car in neatly to allow other visitors to use the very small parking area at the same time. Larger vehicles are advised not to stop here for this reason. The car park outlined below is better suited to campervans and motorhomes.

From this very small car park, simply follow the rough trail into the small valley that meanders alongside the river. This path should be leading you upstream, with the burn on your right. Even this walk towards the waterfall is impressive with dramatic rock formations towering high on your left.

As the trail progresses, any hope of a steady path quickly depletes and transforms into a battle against thick mud and loose or wet rocks. With this in mind, I’d thoroughly recommend wearing wellies, waterproof hiking boots, or if you are particularly adventurous, your wetsuit for the pool at the end!

Please, please, please be careful of rockfall from above and slippery rocks below!

Admiring the Falls from the Top

Approximate Walk Time: 5-10 minutes (One Way)

If you’d prefer to combine your view of the falls with the loch, then start by parking your vehicle here. This pull-in area is a lot more obvious and convenient for larger vehicles.

Wailing Widow Falls Car Parking: Van on the North Coast 500

From this layby, you can either walk around the entirety of the loch or choose your own path through the boggy marshland heading straight for the waterfall. Therefore, wear appropriate footwear and avoid making the journey after heavy rainfall. Most importantly, take your time!

Scottish Highlands Google Map Legend

Scottish Highlands Google Map Legend

This Google Map Legend showcases 140+ need-to-know coordinates within our bonnie Scottish Highlands & Islands:

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  • Relevant Links to Online Travel Guides
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The Best Times to Visit Wailing Widow Falls

Loch Na Gainmhich, Wailing Widow Falls and the surrounding area is free to visit all year round. Due to the dampness of the leading valley to the waterfall, I would advise people to visit during the summer months when there is a higher chance of the ground being less boggy.

Heading further North?
Make a stop at the Kylesku Bridge for a classic NC500 photo opportunity!
Are you continuing south on the NC500? 
Don't miss the Bones Caves or Stac Pollaidh!

Let’s Go!
@katie.maree

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Katie

Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. My goal is to visit 100 countries before I am 30 years old.

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6 comments
  1. Pingback: The Bones Caves: Your Complete Guide (inc. Car Parking) - Katie Goes
  2. Pingback: Kylesku Bridge Viewpoint (NC500 Guide) - Katie Goes
  3. Pingback: Stac Pollaidh: Scotland's Best Wee Hill Walk for Beginners - Katie Goes
  4. Pingback: NC500 Road Trip: A Highlander's Guide to Scotland's North Coast - Katie Goes
  5. Pingback: NC500 Overnight Stops: The Ultimate List of Camper Park-Ups - Katie Goes
  6. Pingback: Best Places to Visit in Scotland (Written By A Local) - KatieGoes

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