The best waterfall hikes and walks around Butterstone Loch
4.7
(570)
5,192
hikers
23
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around Butterstone Loch are characterized by a landscape of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and the meandering rivers that feed into the loch. The region features varied terrain, including established paths alongside rivers and through forests, with elevations that create numerous cascades and waterfalls. This area offers a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging ascents, providing diverse opportunities for exploring natural water features.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Butterstone Loch
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(7)
39
hikers
14.9km
04:03
210m
210m
Hike the moderate Hermitage and River Tay Loop, a 9.3-mile route featuring giant trees, waterfalls, and river views in Perthshire, Scotland.
7
hikers
15.0km
04:29
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(4)
65
hikers
3.38km
00:56
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
hikers
2.43km
00:39
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(129)
709
hikers
6.86km
01:55
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A great little cave to enter and take photos.
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Birnam Hill summit 360 spherical: https://kuula.co/share/hr1DG?logo=1&info=1&fs=1&vr=0&zoom=1&thumbs=1
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Anyone who would like to find out more about the life and work of WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (1564 to 1616), the great author of important dramas, is recommended to watch two 15-minute contributions – unfortunately only available in German – as part of the ARD series “Classics of World Literature” by and with Tilman Spengler. If you are interested, see the following links to the ARD media library: Episode -I- https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/william-shakespeare-i/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2JhNjg3NzQxLWEwODUtNDk4ZC05N2NiLTY0MWI2MTE2YWRkOA Episode -II- https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/william-shakespeare-ii/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2QxMGY1Mzk3LTZkYjQtNGMxNy05Y2RiLTA1NWM3YTNiMWFiMw
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On a practical note, it's one of the few bridges over the river in this area so it's likely a waypoint. That said, it's worth a pause to look upstream and downstream and take the obligatory photo. If you're naughty, there's a jail built into the bridge underneath.
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A splendidly smooth and scenic gravel and asphalt path/track graces the river's east side, offering a delightful hikee. Portions of this route are part of National Cycle Route 77, while sections around Dunkeld House Hotel see it merging with vehicular roads. To the north of the hotel, the path transitions to asphalt. On the river's west side, hikers can find a more rugged dirt path, catering to those seeking a bumpier journey.
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There's an old prison built into the bridge base on the east side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available around Butterstone Loch?
There are over 20 waterfall hiking trails around Butterstone Loch, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 4000 times, highlighting the area's popularity for its natural beauty.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Butterstone Loch offers several easy waterfall hikes perfect for beginners and families. For example, The Hermitage & Ossian's Cave loop from Inver is a shorter, accessible trail that takes about an hour to complete, leading through ancient woodlands to scenic spots.
What is the best time of year to experience the waterfalls around Butterstone Loch?
The waterfalls around Butterstone Loch are particularly impressive after periods of rain, typically in spring and autumn, when water levels are higher. Spring also brings lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. Summer provides warmer weather for hiking, and winter can offer a unique, frosty landscape, though trails may be more challenging.
Can I bring my dog on the waterfall hiking trails?
Many trails around Butterstone Loch are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the waterfalls with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Are there any circular waterfall walks in the area?
Yes, you can find several circular routes that incorporate waterfalls. A popular option is the The Hermitage – Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors loop from Dunkeld, which offers a pleasant round trip through scenic landscapes and past notable features.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these waterfall hikes?
The terrain around Butterstone Loch features a mix of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and meandering river paths. You can expect established trails, some with gentle gradients, and others with more challenging ascents, providing diverse opportunities to explore natural water features.
What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails around Butterstone Loch?
The waterfall trails around Butterstone Loch are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene lochside paths, ancient woodlands, and the dramatic beauty of the waterfalls and features like Ossian's Cave.
Where can I find parking for waterfall hikes near Butterstone Loch?
Parking is generally available at common starting points for trails, such as near Dunkeld and Birnam. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot, or by checking local signage upon arrival.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the waterfall trails?
The nearby towns of Dunkeld and Birnam offer a selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your waterfall hike. These towns are popular hubs for visitors to the area.
How long do the waterfall hikes typically take?
The duration of waterfall hikes varies significantly. Shorter, easy trails like The Hermitage & Ossian's Cave loop from Inver can be completed in under an hour, while longer, moderate routes such as Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors – Ossian's Cave loop from Dunkeld and Birnam can take over 4 hours.
What should I wear for hiking the waterfall trails?
For waterfall hikes around Butterstone Loch, it's advisable to wear waterproof hiking boots with good grip, as paths can be wet and muddy. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions, and a waterproof jacket is essential, especially given the Scottish climate.
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