The Falls of Bruar Walk

The Falls of Bruar Walk is a beautiful, scenic route that unfolds on a well-trodden, undulating path. It’s a relatively short walk that can be done in under 2 hours; however, some significant steep sections make this walk best reserved for adults or families with older children. Caution should be taken on the section of the route that unfolds near the gorge edge, as the drop is significant.

The Falls of Bruar, which fall from a height of 197ft above, have long been a destination for those looking to soak up some incredible scenery. At the end of the 18th century, the falls became quite popular with tourists, and locals enjoyed them long before that! Rober Burns wrote the poem titled “The Humble Petition of Bruar Water to the Noble Duke of Atholl” in 1787, requesting that the then Duke plant some trees around the falls to make the area more appealing. Thousands of trees were later planted, and the area has since become highly dense with Larch, Scots, Pine, Aspen, Willow and more.

To begin the walk, set out towards the front of the Bruar House building leaving the car park behind. Turn left to make your way uphill, keeping an eye out for The Falls of Bruar signage. Enjoy a pleasant stretch under the canopy of trees as you begin to climb, soon reaching a welcoming wooden bench where you can pause to enjoy the scenery for a while. Head for the lower bridge viewing point by continuing on the main path. On your left, you’ll spot the remains of what once was a Victorian viewing house but has since decayed. Instead of crossing the lower bridge, continue to climb uphill to reach the higher stone bridge that rewards with brilliant views down over the gorge below.

On the other side of the upper bridge, continue to follow the path, soon reaching a pleasant picnic area on your left where you can enjoy some refreshments while enjoying views of the falls. When you’re ready to continue, maintain the main path, which soon begins to descend, granting you superb views of the upper falls.

Continue the trail until you reach the lower bridge, which you’ll then cross to press on to the end of the walk. Follow the outward path to return to the start point and make your way back to the car park where the walk began.

Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Loch Muick, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.

What to know about hiking The Falls of Bruar trail in 2024

2024 is expected to be another busy season of walking on The Falls of Bruar Trail. Due to the trail’s popularity, especially during weekends or the busy fall season, it is advisable to arrive early or park a bit south of the trailhead to avoid the worst of the traffic. The waterfalls are most spectacular after periods of heavy rain when the water flow is at its fullest.