Falls of Lochay

The Falls of Lochay are a multi-tiered waterfall in the Glen Lochay valley, near Stirling in northern Scotland. The Lochay river flows through it, rising west of Crianlarich and joining Loch Tay near Killin. Walkers reach the falls along a path that follows the riverbank through mixed woodland. The falls attract wild-water canoeists who tackle the steep drops and standing waves. Beside the main cascade a fish ladder lets salmon pass upstream to spawning grounds. The roar of water mixes with birdsong from siskins and grey wagtails in the surrounding trees. Visitors find the lower tiers of the falls most accessible, where the river narrows between mossy rocks. Above, the path climbs past old stone bridges and ruined sheilings from the 19th century. On calm days the water’s spray catches the light, and the valley echoes with the sound of rushing water.