How To Visit Steall Waterfall | Steall Falls, Fort William
Looking to visit Steall Waterfall? My guide to walking the Steall Falls trail includes how to get there, how much time you need, and what to wear for this incredible short walk near Fort William.
Steall WaterFall Trail
Level: easy/moderate
Length: 2 miles or 3.5km
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Route type: out & back
Best time to visit: April to October
Parking: free but limited
Area: Fort William, Highlands
If you’re looking for a short walk in Fort William, the hike into Steall Waterfall is one you can’t miss.
This Steall Falls trail is an iconic Scottish walk for good reason, with the most incredible waterfall surrounded by breathtaking Highland scenery.
The walk into Steall Waterfall is only 3.5km and takes around 1.5-hours. And whilst it may not be considered a hugely exciting walk compared to others in the area, its uneven terrain and gorgeous views make this hike just challenging enough.
Plus, the landscape around Steall Falls is stunning and this short walk makes for a wonderful day outdoors.
Immersed in nature, the rocky trail emerges from woodland to the jaw-dropping Steall Falls – a 120m cascade, nestled amongst the Glen Nevis mountains. Located in the heart of the Highlands, Steall Falls is a trail you won’t want to miss on your Scotland travels.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your hike into Steall Waterfall.
What is Steall Waterfall?
Steall Waterfall (An Steall Bàn in Gaelic) is Scotland’s second highest waterfall.
A natural phenomenon carved by glaciers, the water emerges from a hanging valley (called Coire a' Mhail) and plunges an incredible 120m to the valley floor below. The walk to Steall Falls passes through the incredible Nevis Gorge, finally reaching the waterfall within stunning Glen Nevis. There’s also the option of crossing an infamous Glen Nevis rope bridge over the river, although this is only for the brave!
Where is Steall Waterfall?
Find Steall Falls in Glen Nevis, near the Highland town of Fort William. Here you’ll find heaps of accommodation, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It’s about a 20-minute drive to the Steall Falls carpark from the centre of Fort William, where you’ll find heaps of restaurants and hotels.
How long does the Steall Waterfall walk take?
The Steall Falls walk into Steall Waterfall itself is around 2-hours there and back, 1.5-hours if you’re feeling fit. However, you’re going to stop for photographs along the way, especially if the weather is kind.
So, I would allocate at least 3-hours to take in the views, and a little extra for snacks or lunch in the glen.
Steall waterfall Parking
Parking for Steall Waterfall is at the very end of the road through Glen Nevis. It’s a reasonably small car park and free to use. But’s also a very popular trail, so arrive early especially in summer to guarantee a space.
Also, whilst the drive into the Steall Falls carpark is incredibly beautiful, much of the road is extremely narrow and single track. Check out my Scotland driving guide if passing places and single-track roads are new to you!
Otherwise, finding the Steall Falls parking is easy - find the exact location here on Google Maps.
How to walk the Steall Falls trail
The Steall Falls walk begins at the information board found at the far end of the carpark. From here the trail is easy to follow and there’s a clear track through leafy woodland. However, the Steall Falls walk does have it challenges. Though the first part of the trail is pretty much flat and well maintained, as you move further in, the trail becomes narrow and very rugged. As you make your way in, there are sections with steep drops to the river below, and areas where water from the hills makes the rocks wet and slippery.
With only 200m of elevation, there are very few uphill sections, but there are plenty of places to stop and catch your breath after slogging over boulders!
At the end of the trail, the forest opens into a stunning meadow. Steall Falls are directly ahead, across the vast valley floor. When we reached this point, we were in awe. The view totally exceeded my expectations - soaring mountain peaks, a crystal-clear river, and the magnificent cascade plunging from the rocks.
Glen Nevis rope bridge
If you want to get closer to Steall Waterfall, cross the iconic Glen Nevis rope bridge. Although, despite its name, the bridge actually consists of a few skinny wires. This most definitely isn’t for the faint hearted and you’ll need excellent balance! We chose instead to spend an hour having lunch by the river with views of the waterfall. The other way across the river involves getting wet feet, so come prepared.
How hard is it to walk Into Steall Falls
Whilst I found the terrain reasonably easy-going, novice walkers may find certain rocky sections tricky – especially if you’re not wearing the right shoes.
However, it is entirely doable for beginners; go slowly and wear sturdy footwear or hiking boots. Along the way you’ll be rewarded with the most gorgeous views of the valley, gorge, and the surrounding mountains.
Steall Falls route & map
For the route and map, check out Steall Falls here.
What to wear and pack for Steall Falls
Wear
The Steall Falls trail is short and relatively straight-forward, so you don’t need special hiking gear. But I do recommend hiking boots or study shoes with good grip because of the rocky terrain. I love these Merrell walking shoes and these Danner Adrika hiking boots; both are comfy, waterproof, and perfect for rocky trails.
Pack
As always in Scotland, the weather is unpredictable, so pack waterproofs!
Also, a windbreaker or light puffer. Layers are essentials as it can be chilly in the glen.
There are no cafes nearby, so I’d suggest packing snacks and water. This insulated bottle is so helpful for walks.
Finally, you’ll need a backpack to carry everything. This Osprey backpack is small enough to be comfortable, but large enough to carry all your essentials. Plus, the colour is beautiful.
Best time to visit Steall Falls
Steall Falls is an excellent walk at any time of the year. In spring the forest is brimming with wildflowers, whilst in autumn the forest colours are incredible. On wet days, the waterfall is especially amazing, with the cascade thundering down the rock face. However, I’d personally avoid icy days in winter where the rocky path could be unsafe. You can also check the weather for Steall Falls here.
Where to stay near Steall Falls
Hotels and B&Bs
The small town of Fort William is a short drive away and there you’ll find plenty of accommodation. From luxury hotels to budget friendly B&Bs, there’s something to suit all tastes. We recommend:
Nevis Bank Inn: spacious, comfortable rooms in a stylish setting. Plus there’s a top rated restaurant. Check availability and book here.
Lime Tree: cosy and stylish, the lovely rooms have stunning loch views and there’s a delicious restaurant with log fire below. Check availability and book here.
The Garrison: perfect if you’re looking for quirky rooms & modern décor on the high street. Check availability and book here.
Camp
Wild camping in Glen Nevis is on my bucket list! Choose a flat grassy spot along the river on the journey to the carpark. Or camp in the meadow with the waterfall outside your tent door. Of course, always be responsible and leave no trace.
Alternatively, check out Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park. Close to Steall Falls and Ben Nevis, facilities at this site for vans, motorhomes, and tents have excellent reviews. Check availability and prices here.
Youth Hostel
Five-star accredited, the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel has excellent reviews and is a perfect base for Steall Falls, Ben Nevis, and the Great Glen Way trail. Check availability and book here.
