River Moriston Falls: A Hidden Gem in the Scottish Highlands

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, River Moriston Falls is a captivating destination that often remains overshadowed by the more well-known Loch Ness and other Highland giants. However, those who make their way to this serene spot are rewarded with a powerful blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and a rare sense of tranquility. If you’re seeking a true Highland escape, River Moriston Falls offers an experience as majestic as it is unassuming.

The Journey to Moriston Falls

Located just a stone’s throw away from the small village of Invermoriston, River Moriston Falls are easy to access while exploring the wider Loch Ness region. Driving along the scenic A82 route, you’ll find the village right where the road hugs the northern shore of Loch Ness, and just off it lies the heart of this enchanting scene. A gentle stroll from the village brings you to the falls, where the river cuts its way down towards the legendary loch, tumbling over rocks and gathering in deep pools.

Invermoriston lies on the Great Glen Way, a long-distance walk that opened in 2002. The Great Glen Way is very popular with hikers and runs between Fort William and Inverness, covering a distance of 79 miles. This beautiful trail draws visitors from all over the world who wish to experience the diverse landscapes of the Highlands, including serene lochs, wooded valleys, and, of course, the stunning falls of River Moriston. The Great Glen Way passes right through the village, making Invermoriston a popular stopover for walkers looking to rest and recharge.

Nature’s Power and Serenity Combined

As you approach the falls, the rhythmic roar announces their presence long before they come into view. The path leading to the falls is surrounded by a dense woodland, which makes the first sight of the crashing waters even more rewarding. Lush ferns and towering trees frame the river, creating a backdrop that feels almost storybook-like, a perfect setting to get lost in the atmosphere of the Highlands.

A short stroll takes you along this path running beside the river, where you’ll find a quirky seat that invites you to take a rest and watch the world go by. From this comfortable perch, you can see paddlers negotiating the falls and rapids that rush down this part of the Moriston. During high water levels, the river becomes especially fast-flowing, offering a thrilling challenge for the keen water sportsperson. Watching these brave adventurers ride the powerful current adds another layer of excitement to the tranquil beauty of the setting.

What makes River Moriston Falls so special is their incredible duality—an ever-present tension between power and calm. The falls themselves are a force of nature, a lively cascade of white water rushing over dark rocks, forming whirlpools and waves that seem almost sculptural. As you stand on the well-positioned viewing platforms, you can watch the falls as they foam and roar—each second carving, changing, and reshaping the riverbed below.

Yet, only a short walk along the riverbank brings you to quieter eddies where the water flows gently, allowing you to appreciate the surrounding natural beauty in almost complete silence. This tranquil setting invites you to linger, to breathe deeply, and to feel entirely immersed in the Highland wilderness.
You could easily drive through Invermoriston, without realising this beauty spot is worth 30 minute of your time.  The village has a free car park by the village hall and there is a path which leads behind the hall and through into the woods.

A Bridge to the Past

The historical Thomas Telford Bridge, an arching stone structure that spans the river near the falls, adds a layer of timelessness to your visit. Built in the early 19th century, the bridge exemplifies the engineering prowess of Telford, one of Scotland’s most famed civil engineers. Though now replaced by a modern bridge for traffic, the old structure remains as a pedestrian crossing, offering one of the best views of the falls below. Standing on the bridge, you can imagine the countless travelers and villagers who have crossed these waters for generations.

Seasonal Splendor

No matter the season, River Moriston Falls presents an evolving canvas of the Highland’s beauty. In spring and summer, the surrounding woodlands burst with lush greens, and the wildflowers along the path create vibrant splashes of colour. Come autumn, the landscape transforms into a rich palette of golds, reds, and russets, and the cool Highland air adds a crispness to each breath. Even in winter, when frost clings to the rocks and mist rises from the falls, there’s a unique magic in seeing the river plunge through the frozen landscape.

Wildlife and Wonder

The falls are also a prime location for spotting local wildlife. Keep an eye out for salmon leaping upstream during the late summer months—a testament to nature’s incredible instinct for survival. Herons are also frequent visitors, patiently waiting along the riverbanks, their sharp eyes scanning for movement. Birdsong fills the air in the early mornings, giving the area a sense of enchantment that is quintessentially Highland.

Tips for Your Visit

If you’re planning a visit to River Moriston Falls, be sure to take some time to explore the village of Invermoriston itself. The village is quaint, with a few charming spots for a coffee or bite to eat, offering an authentic taste of Highland hospitality. There are also a number of short walking trails in the area, many of which offer beautiful views of Loch Ness and the surrounding hills.

The falls are easily accessible, but the paths can be wet and slippery, particularly after rainfall (which, in the Highlands, is frequent), so sturdy shoes are recommended. Also, don’t forget your camera—the play of light on the water, particularly during the golden hours of dawn or dusk, is a photographer’s dream.

Conclusion: A Highland Escape Worth Discovering

River Moriston Falls may not be as famous as some of Scotland’s iconic landmarks such as Rogie Falls, but they are a hidden gem that showcases the raw beauty of the Highlands in an intimate, unforgettable way. Whether you are simply passing through Invermoriston on the Great Glen Way or staying for a while, the falls provide the perfect setting to pause, reflect, and admire the magic of Scotland’s landscape. Here, among the rushing waters and the tranquil pools, you can truly feel the spirit of the Highlands—untamed, majestic, and eternally inviting.

You can walk up onto the bridge and on both sides you will see lovely views. The first view is looking back to the place where the photo of the two bridges above was taken.  A stone summer house is located on the edge of the bank which is now owned by Historic Scotland. A lovely spot to sit and take in the river on a warm and sunny day.