5 Best Waterfalls on the NC500
The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s most popular road trip showcasing the most incredible scenery and white sandy beaches in the Scottish Highlands. Another thing that the NC500 has to offer is some magnificent waterfalls, tumbling from the mountains into the plunge pool below.
In this post we are sharing our favourite 5 waterfalls on the NC500 route.
Rogie Falls
Rogie Falls is situated in the Ross-shire region in the northern highlands, near Black Water Falls and the well-known munro Ben Wyvis. It is one of the many Forestry Commission attractions in the Ross-shire region and is well maintained with good footpaths and toilets and bins. There are many paths to walk around and explore near Rogie Falls. It is a common place to watch the salmon leaping up the river if you are visiting during August and September.
One of the best views to enjoy Rogie Falls is from the suspension bridge sitting directly in front of the falls. The best time to go is first thing in the morning when it is a lot quieter and you won’t have anyone in front of your view. It will also be a lot more peaceful at this time.
Black Water Falls
Black Water Falls is located near Rogie Falls, however, it is often not as busy here. Surrounded by the mountains, Black Water Falls has multiple layers and the underground makes the water look extremely black. The waterfalls can be viewed from a bridge along the road or a small footbridge a short walk from the car park. There is a good sized car park, a bin and toilets onsite.
Falls of Shin
The Falls of Shin is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit on the NC500 and is located 19 miles from Dornoch, on the road from Bonar Bridge to Lairg. There is a visitor centre and plenty of free parking at the Falls of Shin, as well as excellent motorhome facilities. The Falls of Shin are a short walk from the car park and if you visit during August or September, you may be lucky to see the salmon leaping up the river.
Wailing Widow Falls
The Wailing Widow Falls is one of Scotland’s most stunning waterfalls. Located in North West Sutherland on the west coast of Scotland, Wailing Widow Falls is extremely remote and in an area with the most beautiful scenery. The water plummets from 50ft from Loch na Gainmhich, which is surrounded by nearby mountains and can be viewed from the top and the bottom of the waterfall, depending on the angle you prefer. In our opinion, the best view of Wailing Widow Falls is if you have a drone.
Falls of Measach
One of the most impressive waterfalls on the North Coast 500 is the Falls of Measach which sits at the head of the Corrieshalloch Gorge. Located near Ullapool on the west coast of the NC500, this waterfall is reasonably remote however can still get extremely busy, especially during peak season. As part of the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Trust Site, the Falls of Measach is well maintained and there are plans in place for a visitor centre to be built here. There is a short walk to a suspension bridge that sits high up above the mile-long canyon with brilliant views of the Falls of Measach.
