Plodda Falls Circular Walk

Plodda Falls sits in a narrow wooded gorge in Glen Affric, and the falls themselves drop 46 metres in a thundering cascade that can be heard from some distance through the forest. The approach is through a remarkable stand of Victorian-planted Douglas fir, some of the tallest trees in Britain, whose canopy closes high overhead to create a cathedral-like atmosphere even in wet weather. The circular route follows both banks of the burn, crossing above and below the falls and taking in the famous overhanging viewing platform that juts out above the drop. The whole circuit is compact, covering just 3.2 km with modest climbing.

This is a dog friendly walk that delivers outsized drama for modest effort. The forest paths are wide and well maintained, and off-lead potential is good away from the viewpoint platform where the drop demands care. The burn below the falls provides swimming access in a deep pool, and the woodland environment is rich with scent throughout the year. Livestock risk is negligible. The compact size makes this a practical addition to a longer day in Glen Affric rather than a standalone outing, and combining it with Loch Affric adds considerable scope. The car park and approach road are single-track; arrive early in summer to secure a space.