Corrieshalloch Gorge Scotland
Experience Scotland's deepest gorge, a dramatic canyon with a thundering waterfall and a historic suspension bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Corrieshalloch Gorge Scotland
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Scotland's deepest gorge, a dramatic canyon with a thundering waterfall and a historic suspension bridge.
"Absolutely incredible. The best waterfalls I've seen on the NC500."
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be muddy and steep, especially after rain. Proper shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Embrace the Viewpoint :camera_with_flash:
The suspension bridge offers the most iconic views. Be prepared for heights and the sheer drop below.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Suspension Bridge
Over the gorge
A Victorian marvel offering breathtaking, heart-stopping views directly into the deepest gorge in Scotland.
Falls of Measach
Within the gorge
A spectacular 150ft cascading waterfall that plunges into the dramatic canyon, a true highlight of the reserve.
Fern Trail Loop
Lower trails
An enchanting, shorter loop showcasing the unique 'rainforest' ecosystem with lush ferns and fascinating fungi.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Parking and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be muddy and steep, especially after rain. Proper shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Embrace the Viewpoint :camera_with_flash:
The suspension bridge offers the most iconic views. Be prepared for heights and the sheer drop below.
Explore the Fern Trail :evergreen_tree:
Don't miss the shorter loop showcasing the unique 'rainforest' flora, a hidden gem within the reserve.
Check Parking Fees :parking:
Parking costs £5 for cars and £10 for campervans. Consider it worthwhile for the incredible experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be muddy and steep, especially after rain. Proper shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Embrace the Viewpoint :camera_with_flash:
The suspension bridge offers the most iconic views. Be prepared for heights and the sheer drop below.
Explore the Fern Trail :evergreen_tree:
Don't miss the shorter loop showcasing the unique 'rainforest' flora, a hidden gem within the reserve.
Check Parking Fees :parking:
Parking costs £5 for cars and £10 for campervans. Consider it worthwhile for the incredible experience.
Visitor Centre Amenities :coffee:
The visitor center offers toilets, a cafe for refreshments (including ice cream!), and a gift shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Corrieshalloch Gorge as a breathtaking and unmissable stop, particularly for its dramatic gorge, powerful waterfall, and the iconic suspension bridge. The unique 'rainforest' ecosystem and well-maintained trails add to the appeal. While parking fees are noted, most feel the experience justifies the cost.
"So far one of the best stops on our trip. The gouge is …. Gorgeous. The bridge over it makes the view really come out of nowhere and add to the experience. To me this is a do not miss spot!
The extra short loop for the fern trail was also well worth it as we saw lots of different ferns and mushrooms. The rain forest is very beautiful and the whole ecology stands out as very unique.
The visitor center sells ice cream which is a great treat after the short hike. There is an overflow parking lot down the road and several turn off parking spots. Parking in the lot cost 5 pounds."
Eric Falconer
"A beautiful spot with about 1 hour of walking trails. These photographs paths are well marked out and easy to follow. A little muddy in places after rain and some steep areas. Anyone with a reasonable level of mobility should be able to get around the whole reserve. The gorge is breathtaking and you really need to be on the bridge and the far side view point to fully appreciate it. The £5 parking fee was well worth it (£10 if you are in a camper or motorhome)"
Catherine McCracken
"Absolutely incredible. The best waterfalls iv seen on the NC500, and we’ve seen a few Would recommend to anyone interested in seeing the waterfalls. We parked in the overflow car park, £10 for camper vans which may seem expensive to some but it was money well spent. We entered the route to the left which was an easy trek down to the bridge. Over the bridge then turned right off the beaten track which is only for the more daring as sheer drop a few feet from track. Can be scary. Would also recommend proper footwear
AN ABSOLUTELY MUST SEE."
Tracy Collins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Corrieshalloch Gorge is conveniently located about 20km south of Ullapool, making it an easy stop along the North Coast 500 route.
While direct public transport to the gorge itself might be limited, buses do run between Ullapool and areas south of it. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider it as part of a driving tour like the NC500.
Most visitors arrive by car and utilize the visitor center parking. The main attraction is the walk to the suspension bridge and viewpoints overlooking the gorge and waterfall.
Yes, Corrieshalloch Gorge is a popular and highly recommended stop along the famous North Coast 500 (NC500) route.
While the gorge is accessible year-round, winter conditions can make the trails slippery and potentially hazardous. Always check local weather and road conditions before visiting during the colder months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee to the reserve itself, but parking is charged. The cost is £5 for cars and £10 for campervans or motorhomes, which is considered good value by many visitors for the experience.
The gorge is generally accessible during daylight hours. The visitor center facilities, including the cafe and toilets, will have specific operating times, which are usually aligned with typical daytime visitor hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Corrieshalloch Gorge. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking, and payment is typically made on-site.
The National Trust for Scotland manages the site, and membership benefits may apply to parking fees. It's worth checking their website for any specific discount information if you are a member.
The parking fee grants you access to the visitor center facilities, including toilets and the cafe, as well as the walking trails leading to the gorge viewpoints and the suspension bridge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours at Corrieshalloch Gorge, allowing time for the walk to the viewpoints, enjoying the scenery, and perhaps a stop at the cafe. The main loop is about a mile long.
The walk to the main viewpoints is relatively short and well-maintained, though it can be muddy in places and has some steep sections. The fern trail offers a slightly different, enchanting experience.
Yes, Corrieshalloch Gorge is generally suitable for families. The main paths are manageable, but supervision is essential, especially near the gorge edges and the suspension bridge due to the steep drops.
Dogs are allowed at Corrieshalloch Gorge, but they must be kept on a lead at all times, especially due to the proximity of the gorge and the wildlife.
Corrieshalloch Gorge is a dramatic slot gorge carved by Ice Age glacial meltwater over 2.6 million years ago.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The suspension bridge offers the most dramatic perspective of the gorge and the Falls of Measach.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic lighting for your photos, highlighting the textures of the gorge and the mist from the waterfall. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the scale of the gorge. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance the sky. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions or capturing the motion of the waterfall.
The main challenge is the sheer scale and depth of the gorge, making it difficult to capture its entirety in a single shot. The spray from the waterfall can also be an issue, so protecting your lens is important.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Nature Reserves to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's advisable to check with the National Trust for Scotland for specific regulations before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers on the NC500
It's easily accessible from the road and offers a dramatic change of scenery. The short visit time (1-2 hours) makes it perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary. Many travelers rave about it being one of the best stops on the entire route.🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: The Suspension Bridge
It was designed to provide access to the stunning viewpoints, allowing visitors to safely cross the deep chasm. The bridge itself is an impressive structure, offering a unique perspective of the gorge's immense scale.Many visitors find the experience of standing on the bridge exhilarating, with the roar of the Falls of Measach below and the sheer drop on either side. It's a place that truly makes you appreciate the power of nature and the ingenuity of human design. Some have noted that workmen had to abseil under it for repairs, highlighting the challenging nature of its maintenance.
Scotland's Hidden Rainforest
This environment is characterized by high rainfall and humidity, fostering the growth of abundant mosses, lichens, and ferns on the gorge's steep walls and surrounding woodlands. It's a stark contrast to the often rugged, treeless landscapes found elsewhere in the Scottish Highlands.The 'fern trail' offers a delightful opportunity to explore this verdant world up close. Visitors often remark on the magical, almost prehistoric feel of this part of the reserve. The rich biodiversity here is a key reason why Corrieshalloch is designated as a National Nature Reserve, showcasing a different facet of Scotland's natural beauty.
Geological Formation of the Gorge
+1 This process, which began approximately 2.6 million years ago, sculpted the deep, narrow canyon that we see today. The River Droma continues to flow through the gorge, further shaping its features over time.Geologists highlight the significance of this gorge as a prime example of glacial erosion. The sheer depth and the characteristic U-shape of the gorge are direct results of the immense forces exerted by ice and water during these ancient periods. Understanding its formation adds another layer of appreciation for this natural wonder.
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