WALK: Corrieshalloch Gorge, Highland
Highland chasm
Stand atop a suspension bridge high above the thrilling Falls of Measach on this short woodland walk through one of Scotland’s deepest gorges, dares Fergal MacErlean
You are guaranteed to be awestruck with your first sight of the vertigo-inducing Corrieshalloch Gorge and the Falls of Measach. One of the most spectacular of its type in Britain, Corrieshalloch provides striking evidence of how glacial meltwater can create deep gorges.
A Victorian-era suspension bridge spans the gap above the 60-metre-deep chasm, where you can gaze at the River Droma’s long, crashing waterfall. In winter, the experience is electric when the Droma is in spate.
The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) manages this national nature reserve, designated for its upland birch wood and geological features, including a fine-grained rock called mylonite. A car park, information boards, short waymarked walk (described here) and accessible walk are available, with a major new visitor centre planned for spring 2023.
The Trust carries out a range of conservation work to protect these diverse habitats, including the eradication of rhododendron. There is currently no work planned on the route this winter, though it’s a good idea to check the NTS website before visiting.
THE ROUTE
1.2 miles/1.9km | 1 hour | EASY-MODERATE
1. TINY FERN
Start from the Corrieshalloch Gorge car park on the A832 Dundonnell road just west of Braemore Junction and follow the waymarked path to the suspension bridge. It doesn’t take long to reach the historic bridge, which provides superb views of the Falls of Measach, Easan na Miasaich in Gaelic.
The gorge, a mile-long box canyon, is famed for its mosses and liverworts, and Britain’s smallest fern – the small and creeping perennial, Wilson’s filmy fern. Listen for ravens, which nest here above the roaring falls.
2. ACROSS THE GORGE
Cross the bridge, built in 1874 by Sir John Fowler. He was famous for being chief engineer of the Forth Bridge and the world’s first underground railway in London. Turn left to reach a metal viewing platform. This gives more stupendous gorge views.
3. REDS AND PINES
From the viewpoint, recross the bridge and turn right on a path that skirts the gorge, where care is needed. Look for red squirrels as you walk through pines and then downhill to an information and viewing area.
4. BROOM VIEWS
Follow the path as it turns uphill and into open countryside. On the right lies the sea loch, Loch Broom. A final level section completes the 1.2-mile walk.
SITE DETAILS
Free NTS car park with information board. nts.org.uk/visit/places/corrieshalloch-gorge
Fergal MacErlean is an outdoors writer who loves exploring Scotland on foot.