Hiking Steall Waterfall in Scotland: A Must-See Stop Between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye

If you're road-tripping through Scotland {which I highly recommend!}, there's a good chance your route will take you from Edinburgh toward the Isle of Skye. It's one of the most scenic drives in the country filled with lochs, glens, and highland peaks that look like they've been plucked from a storybook! Along the way, there's one stop you absolutely shouldn't miss and that's Steall Waterfall near Fort William.
Tucked deep in Glen Nevis, Steall Waterfall {sometimes called An Steall Ban, meaning "The White Spout" in Gaelic} is one of the most beautiful and accessible hikes in the Scottish Highlands. It combines everything travelers love about Scotland-the dramatic mountains, lush greenery, and a sense of untouched wilderness with a trail that's short enough for most visitors to enjoy.
Whether you're spending a few nights in Fort William or simply looking for the perfect stop between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, here's everything you need to know about hiking Steall Waterfall.

Hiking Steall Waterfall in Scotland: A Must-See Stop Between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye

Why Steall Waterfall Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary

Steall Waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Scotland, plunging 120 meters {almost 400 feet!} down a steep cliff face. It's located at hte head of Glen Nevis, a stunning valley that lies just outside of Fort William. the short hike to reach it is only about 2.25 miles round trip and it packs a pretty impressive punch for such a manageable distance. 
Along the way, you'll pass through lush woodlands, cross streams and rivers, and emerge into a wide glen surrounded by towering mountains. When the waterfall comes into view, it feels like you've stumbled into a hidden world. It's no wonder parts of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire were filmed here because the dramatic landscape is pure movie magic!
Once you get near the waterfall, you have a very own choose your own adventure moment. You can pick the very simple {and kind of scary!} wire suspension bridge that crosses the Nevis River, or you can go around through the meadow. 

Getting There: The Route from Edinburgh to Fort William

We spent several days in Edinburgh and then took the bus to the airport where we rented a car. This seemed the easiest way to get a car and not have to drive or park in the city. If you're driving from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, Fort William makes the perfect halfway stop. The drive from Edinburgh to Fort William takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on how often you stop.
We actually made a quick lunch stop in Stirling and had zero regrets! I loved discovering a new town and comparing both Edinburgh and Stirling. They both have castles built on volcanic rock ridges, and while the town vibes are similar, Stirling is much smaller and a little more laid back. I honestly wish we'd had more time to explore, so take note!
We chose this route because it gave us the opportunity to drive through Glencoe, one of the most breathtaking valleys in all of Scotland. This drive alone is worth the trip with its rolling hills, mist-covered peaks, cascading waterfalls and heck, you might even spot a few Highland cows grazing near the roads. Be sure to plan extra time for scenic stops and photos. There are a few viewpoint lots that make it easy!
Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland
When you reach Fort William, you'll be at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. From here, it's just a short 15-20 minute drive to the Lower Glen Nevis Car Park, where the Steall Falls hike begins.
We choose to enjoy the evening in Fort William and prepared for the hike early the next morning.
Pro tip: Book accommodations and restaurant reservations early! Fort William was probably our biggest disappointment. Not only did we stay in the most overpriced and disappointing hotels our whole trip, we also were turned away from no less than four restaurants that were at capacity for dinner. 

Here's what I wish I would have known about Fort William

You don't have to stay downtown Fort William. I felt like we needed to be close to the town center and it would have been just as easy to drive in to the town center. This will open up more options for lodging. We felt ripped off paying nearly $500 a night for a really {that's an understatement!} subpar motel room. 
Lodging in general is very expensive in Fort William and it's the starting or ending point for a lot or outdoor activities. People come to stay at the end of their hike on the famous West Highland Way or at the start of their Ben Nevis hikes. This was our last accommodation to book because we kept hoping the prices would go down, but they just kept going up. 
I hate making dinner reservations because after a drive, the last thing I would want would be to have a time I had to be somewhere and then know what I'd like to eat days/weeks or months in advance. BUT, this is a necessity in Fort William. We did not run into this issue in any other town. It literally was us running in the pouring rain from pub to pub, restaurant to restaurant, only to get turned away. 
Not only are hotels and lodging limited, so is restaurant seating, so be prepared! 
The final thing I wish I'd known is that nearly everything in closed on Sunday! We got up early for our hike, and couldn't find any restaurant or bakery open early for breakfast. We ended up at McDonald's which was very cringe, but honestly, it turned out better than I would have expected. I had literally the best porridge. It was cheap and made with fresh organic milk and I was pleasantly surprised!

Hiking to Steall Waterfall

Distance: 2.25 miles (3.6 km) round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate depending on the route you choose
Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
Trailhead: Lower Glen Nevis Car Park

The Steall Waterfall trail starts at the end of a single track road that winds deep into Glen Nevis. Getting to the car park is a bit of an adventure in itself! Expect a narrow, twisting drive that might require pulling over often for oncoming cars. We found this more so as we left, less as we were going, since we did plan our hike for early morning. 

Pro tip: As we drove our way to the trail head, we did happen on a field of Highland Coos that were grazing {on the left side of the road}. I made my husband pull over for a visit and I'm glad we did. On the return trip home, they were grazing WAY further out in the field with two tour buses stopped nearby for a look. So if you see them, stop!

Once you get to the parking area {we arrived at 9 and found there was plenty of parking}, there is a well marked path that immediately heads into the forest. The trail is rocky and uneven in places, and after rain {which is common in the Highlands}, it can be quite slippery. Make sure you have good walking shoes or hiking boots that have traction and are waterproof! There are several stream crossings as well and once you are near the waterfall, several bogs to walk through.

Pro tip: The parking lot had plenty of spaces when we arrived at 9 am, but when we left, the lot was full. And there didn't seem to be a lot of overflow parking areas. Especially since it was a single track road driving in. So get there early!

In no time, you'll quickly find yourself walking alongside the Nevis Gorge, with steep drops to the river below and moss covered boulders all around. The air feels damp and alive and you'll find all kinds of shades of green!

As the forest clears, the trail opens up into a wide meadow surrounded by mountains. It's here that Steall Waterfall comes into view for the first time, cascading down the far side of the glen. It's one of those moments that feels almost unreal.

To get closer to the falls, you'll need to cross the Nevis River. There's a famous three wire bridge here which is basically a very simple and rustic wire suspension bridge that you hold onto and walk across one foot at a time. It's not for everyone! Especially is you are afraid of heights of have unsteady footing, but it's part of the adventure, and honestly, it's kind of worth the rush! If you'd rather not cross, you can still enjoy an excellent view of the waterfall from the meadow without stepping on the bridge and continuing on as far as you'd like towards the falls.

Once you cross the bridge, there is a tiny white house that does have bathroom facilities inside. Honestly, it felt a little like trespassing. I'm still not sure if someone lives there or not. You'll continue to walk through the bog forging your own path. We didn't really see a good way to get there so we just walked towards the waterfall. This is where you will try to be precious about getting your feet wet, but it's inevitable! Some fellow hikers told us that he'd been there before when he stepped in and the bog was literally waist deep! So we were lucky that it was just our feet that sunk in! 

The Ultimate Carry on Packing List for Scotland {Don't miss this list!}

The cable bridge trail will get you closest to the waterfall and you can continue to walk to the waterfall as close as you'd like. I'm really glad that we packed my travel tripod so that we could get some photos. 

Pro Tip: We arrived to the falls around 9:30 am and there were only two other people there when we got there. As we started our return trip, there were swarms of people. I'm glad we got there early because we virtually had the falls all to ourself!

Retracing your steps back is the best route. Again, another fellow hiker took the "loop" trail and said it was quite muddy, so I'm glad we went back the way we came. 

Tips for Hiking Steall Waterfall

1. Go early or late in the day.
Steall Waterfall is a popular spot, especially in summer. The small parking lot can fill quickly. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening gives you a better chance of having the trail more to yourself. We arrived at 9 am and had plenty of parking. When we left, the lot was full!

2. Be prepared for midges.
If you’re visiting between late May and early September, bring insect repellent. These tiny insects love still, damp areas like Glen Nevis and can be relentless when the weather is calm. We hiked mid September and didn't have any issues with bugs. 

3. Wear sturdy shoes.
The trail can be muddy and rocky, and even though it’s short, it’s not flat. Waterproof hiking shoes or boots will make a big difference. Make sure they have good traction!

4. Check the weather.
This is the Highlands, rain can roll in fast. Bring a light waterproof jacket and check the forecast before you go. The trail is best avoided in heavy rain, as the rocks can become slick and the bog becomes marshy!

5. Bring a picnic.
The glen near the falls is the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Just be sure to pack out everything you bring in.

Staying in Fort William

Fort William is known as the outdoor capital of the UK, and for good reason. It’s a great base for exploring the Highlands, whether you’re hiking Ben Nevis, exploring Glencoe, or making your way toward Skye. It's also the ending point of the very popular West Highland Way. 

I already mentioned that the hotel we stayed at was overpriced and just not worth it. I wouldn't stay there again, and would suggest you avoid it yourself. The only good thing it had going for it, was that it had a very small parking lot {first come first serve} and was walking distance to High Street, the main drag in town.

Here are a few great options for places to stay:

• The Lime Tree An Ealdhain – A cozy boutique hotel with beautiful views of Loch Linnhe and an excellent restaurant.

• Nevis Bank Inn – A comfortable and convenient option close to town, with easy parking and friendly staff.

• Beachwood BnB – Incredible reviews with a free morning breakfast to get you going!

In town, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and pubs. Many are located on High Street. If you heed my warning, you'll make reservations before you arrive, otherwise, you may be left struggling on your own to find food! Trust me!

Why It’s the Perfect Stop Between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye

If you’re driving from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, Fort William makes the ideal overnight stop. The full drive can take around six hours, but breaking it into two days not only makes for a more enjoyable journey, it gives you time to experience some of Scotland’s most iconic sights along the way.

By spending a night in Fort William, you can fit in a hike to Steall Waterfall and still have time to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films, before continuing on to the Isle of Skye via the Mallaig–Armadale ferry.

Here’s how to plan the route:

Day 1: Edinburgh to Stirling to Glencoe to Fort William 

Depart Edinburgh in the morning and take your time heading north through the Scottish Highlands. Make a stop in Stirling for brunch at Unorthodox Roasters. Spend a bit of time walking around Friar Street and the downtown area. We toured Edinburgh castle the day before, so I didn't feel the need to go to Stirling Castle, however, if you want to snap a photo, The Kings Knot is the best place to pull over and grab one!

In the afternoon you’ll pass through Glencoe, one of the most dramatic and photogenic valleys in Scotland. There are several viewpoints and short walking trails where you can stop to soak in the scenery.

Arrive in Fort William by late afternoon, check into your hotel, and make your way to Steall Waterfall for a late-day hike. The light in the glen is especially beautiful in the evening, and if you go later in the day, you’ll avoid the larger crowds that tend to visit midday. Or save the hike for the morning, it's up to you! 

Afterward, grab dinner in town. Don't forget those reservations! The Grog & Gruel is a local favorite and then rest up for another full day of adventure.

Day 2: Fort William  to Steall Waterfall to Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig to Isle of Skye

The next morning, you can wake up early to get out to Steall Waterfall. Remember, early morning or late afternoon/early evening is your best time to visit with the least amount of crowds! After your hike, head back to Fort William. We stopped at the Shipwreck Corpach and were unimpressed. We grabbed lunch at the local Morrison Grocery and took it with us to the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the most recognizable filming locations from the Harry Potter series. The best time to visit is when the Jacobite Steam Train, known to fans as the Hogwarts Express, crosses the viaduct in a cloud of steam.

Trains usually pass twice daily {once in the morning and once in the afternoon during peak season}, and timing your visit so you can watch it cross is well worth it. The Glenfinnan Viewpoint offers a perfect vantage spot to watch the train and photograph the sweeping curve of the viaduct framed by the mountains. Stay tuned for a blog post dedicated to viewing the train!

For more information on the Harry Potter Train, check out this post!

After soaking in the magic, continue your drive west to the port town of Mallaig, about an hour away. We actually made it into town before the Jacobite Steam Train unloaded! From here, you can take the Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye—a beautiful, scenic journey that takes about 30 minutes.

Important Tip: Reserve the Ferry in Advance

The Mallaig–Armadale ferry is incredibly popular, especially in summer months and on weekends. If you’re traveling with a car, reservations are essential! sometimes weeks in advance. You can book your tickets directly through the CalMac website. 

Even foot passengers are encouraged to book ahead when possible, as sailings can fill up quickly during peak travel periods. Missing your planned ferry could mean a long wait for the next one, or an unexpected detour via the Skye Bridge several hours away.

Confession time: We live in a state that has a ferry system, and taking the ferry is something we do on the regular. For some reason, booking a reservation didn't cross our mind! We were actually turned away by the ferry crew when we pulled up telling us that they didn't have any reservations available until the next day! Slight panic ensued, but they did tell us that sometimes there is availability so we still checked inside. We weren't able to make the next ferry, but they could get us on to ferry after that! We got lucky, so learn from our mistakes and book ahead. 

Once you arrive on Skye, you’ll disembark in the southern part of the island, ready to explore highlights like the Fairy Pools, Portree, and the Quiraing.

Why This Route Works So Well

This two-day route is a traveler’s dream:

• Day 1 gives you a mix of scenic driving, exploring a few smaller towns, and a gives you a restful evening in the Highlands.

• Day 2 you get a beautiful morning hike, a fun glimpse at Harry Potter lore, and a ferry ride that feels like a grand introduction to Skye.

By pausing in Fort William, you turn a long driving day into a true Highlands adventure, one that captures the spirit of Scotland before you even reach the island.

Steall Waterfall might not be the longest hike that you do in Scotland, but it's one of the most rewarding and it's a great introduction to the beauty of the Highlands. 

For travelers road tripping from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, it's a stop that perfectly breaks up the drive while offering an unforgettable glimpse into some of Scotland's rugged highlights.

So whether you're chasing waterfalls, movie locations, or simply a bit of Highland magic, Steall Waterfall is a destination worth lacing up your hiking boots for!

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