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Inverness is one of the best places in Scotland for travelers who want to enjoy beautiful Highland scenery without spending every day on a long journey. The city sits close to Loch Ness, forests, mountains, rivers, and peaceful countryside. Among the most impressive natural attractions in the area are waterfalls.
The best waterfalls to visit near Inverness Scotland offer something for almost every type of traveler. Some can be reached after a short walk, while others are hidden inside forests and require more time on foot. Some waterfalls are especially impressive after heavy rain, while others are beautiful throughout the year.
If you are planning a trip to Inverness, visiting one or two waterfalls can be an excellent way to experience the quieter side of the Scottish Highlands. In this guide, I will cover some of the most beautiful waterfalls near Inverness, what makes each one special, what kind of walk to expect, and when to visit.
1. Falls of Foyers
The Falls of Foyers are probably one of the easiest waterfalls to add to a trip around Loch Ness. They are located near the small village of Foyers on the eastern side of Loch Ness, making them a great choice if you are already planning to explore the famous loch.
The waterfall drops dramatically into a wooded gorge before the water continues toward Loch Ness. VisitScotland describes the main waterfall as having a sheer drop of around 140 feet, which helps explain why it has become such a popular natural attraction in the area.
What I particularly like about the Falls of Foyers is the combination of waterfall and woodland scenery. You are not simply looking at water falling over a rock face. The surrounding trees, narrow paths, river gorge, and views toward the loch make the whole visit feel like a proper Highland experience.
The walk down toward the falls can feel quite easy at first, but remember that anything going downhill will eventually require an uphill walk on the way back. Wet weather can also make paths slippery.
The Falls of Foyers are especially worth visiting after rainfall when the water is flowing strongly. If you are taking photographs, cloudy weather can actually create a beautiful atmosphere around the dark trees and rushing water.
You can combine this waterfall with other attractions around Loch Ness, including viewpoints, villages, and historic sites. VisitScotland also includes the Falls of Foyers on the Loch Ness 360 Trail, making it a useful stop for walkers exploring the area.
2. Plodda Falls
Plodda Falls is one of the best waterfalls to visit near Inverness Scotland if you want to experience a more remote Highland environment.
The waterfall is located near Tomich in the Glen Affric area. Instead of being surrounded by houses and busy tourist attractions, Plodda Falls sits among tall woodland and impressive Highland scenery.
VisitScotland describes Plodda Falls as a hidden gem near Glen Affric and highlights its forest setting and walking trails.
One of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Plodda Falls is the walk through the forest. The journey is almost as interesting as the waterfall itself. Tall trees surround the paths, and the sound of moving water gradually becomes more noticeable as you approach the viewing areas.
The main viewing platform gives you an excellent perspective of the waterfall and the gorge below. Plodda Falls is also known for its impressive height, with tourism information describing it as more than 40 metres high.
I would recommend allowing enough time to explore rather than arriving, taking one photograph, and immediately leaving. The surrounding Glen Affric landscape is one of the reasons this area is worth visiting.
If you enjoy forests, photography, quiet walks, and dramatic Highland scenery, Plodda Falls should be near the top of your list.
3. Rogie Falls
Rogie Falls is another excellent choice for visitors staying in Inverness. It is located near Strathpeffer and is particularly popular because the waterfall can be reached without a long or difficult hike.
The Black Water river creates a powerful series of rapids and falls here. One of the highlights is the suspension bridge, which gives visitors a memorable viewpoint over the rushing water.
Rogie Falls can be especially impressive after heavy rainfall. The increased amount of water can transform the normally attractive waterfall into a much more powerful sight. VisitScotland also notes that August and September can provide opportunities to see wild salmon attempting to move upstream.
This makes Rogie Falls interesting for more than just waterfall photography. Depending on the season and conditions, you may also have the chance to watch wildlife.
The surrounding woodland adds to the experience. Instead of treating Rogie Falls as a quick roadside stop, I would suggest taking some time to follow the nearby paths and enjoy the forest.
For families and travelers who do not want a demanding mountain hike, Rogie Falls can be a very practical option. It provides dramatic scenery while keeping the walking experience relatively manageable.
4. Dog Falls
Dog Falls is another beautiful waterfall area to consider when exploring the Highlands around Loch Ness and Glen Affric.
Unlike some waterfalls that are mainly viewed from one platform, Dog Falls is part of a wider woodland landscape with walking routes and river scenery. The combination makes it a good choice for people who want to spend several hours outdoors.
VisitScotland lists Dog Falls among the notable waterfalls around Loch Ness and describes the area as having rushing rapids, scenic woodland walks, and suitable places for a picnic.
The name may sound unusual, but the landscape is anything but ordinary. The river moves through rocky sections surrounded by trees, creating several attractive viewpoints.
If you are traveling with family or friends, Dog Falls can be a nice place to bring lunch and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.
It is also worth remembering that Scottish weather can change quickly. A path that feels comfortable in dry weather may become muddy after rain. Good walking shoes will make the experience much more enjoyable.
5. Divach Falls
Divach Falls is one of the more peaceful waterfall choices near Inverness and Loch Ness. It is located near Drumnadrochit, making it easy to combine with a visit to the northern part of Loch Ness.
The waterfall is surrounded by woodland, giving it a quiet and natural atmosphere. If your idea of a Highland waterfall involves walking through trees rather than standing at a crowded tourist attraction, Divach Falls is worth considering.
VisitScotland specifically recommends heading up Craig Monie near Drumnadrochit and continuing into the area to discover Divach Falls.
One reason I would include Divach Falls on a waterfall itinerary is its location. Drumnadrochit is already a popular base for exploring Loch Ness, so you can combine a waterfall visit with other nearby attractions without creating a completely separate day.
The waterfall is also a good reminder that not every memorable Scottish landscape has to be enormous. Sometimes a smaller waterfall surrounded by trees can provide a much more peaceful experience.
6. Falls of Measach
If you are willing to travel farther from Inverness, the Falls of Measach can make an impressive addition to your Highland itinerary.
The waterfall is associated with the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge area. The surrounding landscape is more rugged and dramatic than some of the smaller woodland waterfalls closer to Inverness.
This is a good option for travelers who want to combine a waterfall with a larger Highland road trip. The journey itself can become part of the experience because the landscape changes as you travel farther into the northwest Highlands.
The gorge scenery gives the waterfall a different character. Instead of simply seeing water flowing through woodland, you get steep rock walls and a much more dramatic natural setting.
If you are planning to visit the northwest Highlands, it makes sense to include the Falls of Measach as part of a wider day rather than traveling there only for a short waterfall stop.
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls Near Inverness
One of the most important things to understand about Scottish waterfalls is that their appearance can change considerably with the weather.
After heavy rain, rivers and streams can become much more powerful. Waterfalls that look gentle during a dry period can become dramatic and loud after rainfall.
Spring can also be a beautiful time to explore. The countryside becomes greener, daylight hours increase, and woodland areas start to feel fresh after winter.
Summer generally provides longer daylight hours and more comfortable conditions for walking. However, popular locations can be busier, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
Autumn is another excellent season. The changing colors of the woodland can make waterfall photography particularly attractive.
Winter can bring a completely different atmosphere. Cold temperatures, frost, snow, and short daylight hours can make Highland waterfalls look spectacular, but walking conditions can also become more difficult.
Whatever season you choose, check the weather before leaving and remember that wet rocks can be slippery. VisitScotland recommends staying on designated paths, keeping away from dangerous edges, avoiding swimming near waterfalls, and wearing suitable footwear.
How to Plan a Waterfall Day From Inverness
The best way to explore waterfalls around Inverness depends on how much time you have.
If you only have one day, the Falls of Foyers are an easy choice because they can be included in a Loch Ness trip. You could spend part of the day exploring the loch and then stop at Foyers for a woodland walk and waterfall view.
For a forest focused day, Plodda Falls and the Glen Affric area are excellent choices. Glen Affric is known for its combination of forests, mountains, and lochs, so you can turn a waterfall visit into a much bigger outdoor adventure.
Rogie Falls is another convenient option, especially if you are interested in exploring the Strathpeffer area.
If you do not have a car, planning requires more attention because some waterfalls are located in rural areas with limited public transport. In that situation, organized tours or private transport can sometimes make the trip easier.
What to Take With You
You do not need expensive hiking equipment for many waterfall walks near Inverness, but a few basic items can make a big difference.
Wear comfortable waterproof walking shoes because paths can become muddy and slippery.
A waterproof jacket is also useful because Highland weather can change quickly. Even when the forecast looks good in Inverness, conditions can be different in forests and valleys.
Take drinking water and some food if you plan to spend several hours walking. A small backpack is normally enough for a short waterfall trip.
Your phone or camera is obviously useful if you enjoy photography. Try taking photographs from different viewpoints instead of taking only one picture from the main viewing area.
Most importantly, take your time. Waterfalls are places to enjoy rather than attractions that need to be rushed through.
Safety Tips for Visiting Scottish Waterfalls
Waterfalls are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous.
Never climb onto wet rocks close to fast moving water. Rocks can become extremely slippery, and strong currents may be difficult to judge from the shore.
Stay behind barriers and follow signs where they are provided. A photograph is never worth taking an unnecessary risk.
Avoid swimming near waterfalls. Cold water, hidden rocks, and powerful currents can create serious dangers even when the water appears calm.
If heavy rain has recently affected the area, expect paths and streams to be wetter than normal. Give yourself extra time and avoid walking routes that feel unsafe.
It is also a good idea to tell someone about your plans if you are heading into a remote area, particularly during the colder months.
Final Thoughts
The best waterfalls to visit near Inverness Scotland are not limited to one famous location. The area around Inverness gives travelers many opportunities to see waterfalls surrounded by forests, rivers, mountains, and Highland countryside.
The Falls of Foyers are ideal if you are exploring Loch Ness. Plodda Falls is a wonderful choice for forest scenery and a more peaceful experience. Rogie Falls is convenient and offers the exciting possibility of seeing salmon in the right season. Dog Falls is excellent for woodland walks and picnics, while Divach Falls provides a quieter experience near Drumnadrochit.
If you have more time and are happy to travel farther, Falls of Measach can add another dramatic waterfall experience to a wider Highland road trip.
What makes these places special is not only the waterfalls themselves. It is the landscape around them. The sound of water moving over rocks, the smell of wet woodland, the changing Highland weather, and the feeling of being surrounded by nature are all part of the experience.
Inverness is a fantastic base for exploring this side of Scotland. You can enjoy the city in the morning, visit a waterfall during the day, and return in the evening after experiencing some of the most peaceful scenery in the Highlands.
For anyone who loves nature, photography, walking, or simply discovering places away from busy city attractions, adding a few waterfalls to your Inverness itinerary is a decision you are unlikely to regret.
