Three Sisters Glencoe Waterfall Walk
1.7 miles (2.8 km)Walk Report September 9th 2026 by Keith Mcneil
We drove down from Fort William towards Glen Coe, with the weather looking decidedly Highland as we approached the Three Sisters. It had recently rained, which wasn't necessarily bad news for us as we were here to see the waterfalls.... The wet weather had brought the burns and streams to life, and as we arrived at the Three Sisters car park the mountains were already looking spectacular beneath the changing Highland skies.
We started the walk from the car park on the A82, where the first views of the Three Sisters give you an immediate sense of the scale of the landscape. The three great ridges rise dramatically above the glen, and it is one of those places where we found ourselves stopping for photographs before we'd even properly started walking. From here we picked up the footpath towards the Meeting of Three Waters, following the route into the heart of Glen Coe.
The recent rain made a real difference as we reached the waterfalls. Water was pouring down the mountainsides and rushing over the rocks, with the Meeting of Three Waters particularly impressive. Rather than the gentler cascades you might find in drier conditions, the falls were noisy and fast-flowing, making this one of the highlights of our walk.
We continued towards the Hidden Valley, following the path between the huge slopes of the Three Sisters. The scenery becomes increasingly enclosed as we go, with rocky cliffs, woodland and the rushing water making this feel much more remote than the short distance from the road would suggest. There are several rocky and uneven sections underfoot, so we took our time, particularly with everything still wet from the rain.
One of our favourite parts was reaching the opening of Coire Gabhail, better known as the Lost Valley or Hidden Valley. The landscape suddenly opens out beyond the narrow gorge, giving us a wonderful view into the secluded valley between the mountains. Surrounded by enormous cliffs, it really does feel like a hidden corner of Glen Coe.
We also enjoyed the changing views back down the glen, with the River Coe winding through the valley and waterfalls appearing on the surrounding slopes. The combination of the mountains, fast-flowing burns and low cloud gave the walk a particularly atmospheric Highland feel.
Although the walk is only around 1.7 miles, I wouldn't describe it as a completely effortless stroll. The terrain becomes rocky and uneven around the approach to the Hidden Valley, with some steeper sections and slippery ground after rain. For us, this added to the sense of adventure and made the short route feel considerably more substantial than its distance suggests.
By the time we returned towards the Three Sisters viewpoint, we'd experienced an impressive slice of Glen Coe in a relatively short walk. The waterfalls, River Coe, narrow gorge and dramatic mountains give the route plenty of variety, while the Three Sisters provide an unforgettable backdrop from start to finish.
For a longer, more challenging circular walk see the Coire Gabhail Lost Valley Walk.
Postcode: PH49 4HX
Pubs and More Info
Just to the west is the Clachaig Inn for some post walk refreshments. The rural inn has a cosy interior full of character with wood burners and rustic deco. They also have a very extensive menu and selection of drinks. The inn is dog friendly if you have your canine friend with you. You can find them at Old Village Road, Ballachulish, PH49 4HX.
Head east and you can explore Buachaille Etive Mor. The distinctive pyramid shaped mountain commands fine views over the area. The waterfalls and loch of Glen Etive are also in this area.
To the west there's the Pap of Glencoe, Loch Leven and the Glencoe Lochan Trail to try.
Head south west and there's the popular coastal town of Oban to visit. There's a lovely bay and a fine climb to the viewpoint on McCaig's Tower to enjoy here. To the north of the town there's the expansive Loch Creran where you can visit the wildlife rich Shian Woodland Nature Reserve.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Scottish Highlands Walks page.
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Nearby Routes
Buachaille Etive Mor Glen Etive Glencoe Lochan Trail West Highland Way Pap of Glencoe Loch Ossian Loch Creran Loch Treig Coire Gabhail Lost Valley Walk
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