Top 3 Waterfalls around Alloa
Waterfalls around Alloa Scotland are primarily found in the nearby Alva Glen, situated at the foot of the Ochil Hills. This area features a series of waterfalls within a gorge, supported by a diverse ecosystem. The glen also contains historical remnants of a textile industry and ancient hill-terraces. The Silver Glen, located east of Alva, offers another waterfall alongside a historically significant silver mine.
Best waterfalls around Alloa
- The most popular waterfalls is Waterfalls of Alva Glen, a waterfall that features a series of five waterfalls, including the 23m Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall. The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust and hosts annual illuminations.
- Another must-see spot is Craighorn Fall, Alva Glen, a waterfall within a forest gorge. This specific waterfall stands at 23 meters high and is part of the series of falls in Alva Glen.
- Visitors also love Silver Glen Waterfall and Silver Mine, a waterfall with historical significance. This area is known for its past as the site of the richest native silver deposit found in the British Isles.
- Alloa is known for its gorge waterfalls, historical site waterfalls, and forest waterfalls. The area offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, often combined with historical and natural features.
- The waterfalls around Alloa are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 4, 2026
Waterfalls of Alva Glen
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Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor is carpeted with many wild flowers and there’s a variety of wildlife to spot, such as the kestrel and the long tailed wagtail.
The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust which is run entirely by volunteers. They regularly plant new tree and shrubs in the area as well as removing non-native species of plant.
Each year the formal garden and waterfalls are illuminated by coloured lights. These stunning Alva Glen illuminations have been attracting people from all over central Scotland for many years.
As you follow the path from the car park you reach the first of five waterfalls, the highlights of the glen, including the 23m Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall, a hidden waterfall which cascades magically into the Smugglers Cave. You can also see a number of ancient hill-terraces, known locally as ‘The Delvins’, on the slopes of the glen.
The glen was once the centre of a busy textile industry and the remnants of an old dam and numerous workshops can be spotted. There are a number information signs to tell you about the history of the area.
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Smugglers' Cave, Alva Glen
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Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor is carpeted with many wild flowers and there’s a variety of wildlife to spot, such as the kestrel and the long tailed wagtail.
The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust which is run entirely by volunteers. They regularly plant new tree and shrubs in the area as well as removing non-native species of plant.
Each year the formal garden and waterfalls are illuminated by coloured lights. These stunning Alva Glen illuminations have been attracting people from all over central Scotland for many years.
As you follow the path from the car park you reach the first of five waterfalls, the highlights of the glen, including the 23m Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall, a hidden waterfall which cascades magically into the Smugglers Cave. You can also see a number of ancient hill-terraces, known locally as ‘The Delvins’, on the slopes of the glen.
The glen was once the centre of a busy textile industry and the remnants of an old dam and numerous workshops can be spotted. There are a number information signs to tell you about the history of the area.
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Silver Glen Waterfall and Silver Mine
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Dollar Glen Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
A black(expert) mtb trail named The Minefield descends from here to the right of the burn. It’s steep, rocky and rooty with drop offs, jumps and berms.
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New wood sculptures going in next week. A butterfly and Neanderthal man.
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The Dollar glen is a beautiful walk. Walkways lead up to the castle and make it fairly accesible (lots of steps still). There is a path near the top to lead you round to the back of the falls.
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Dollar Glen. Magical with its many waterfalls, gullies and pools. Walk up one side to Castle Campbell and return via the other bank.
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Don’t attempt with a mountain bike like I did, you’ll be pushing it and carrying it for 90% of the journey, haha. (Found myself there by accident).
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The Silver Glen lies approximately 1 km to the east of the town of Alva, Clackmannanshire, Scotland, and takes its name from the silver that was mined there in the early 18th century. The story of the silver mine is a remarkable one. The deposit, the richest deposit of native silver ever found in the British Isles, was discovered just as the Jacobite rising of 1715 was breaking out, and its owner, Sir John Erskine, left to join the rebels, leaving his wife in charge of the mine. Some 40 tons of ore were raised and buried in barrels in the grounds of Alva House, whilst the richest of the ore was smelted and the ingots concealed under floorboards inside the house. The mine was then filled in during the aftermath of the failed rising, but its existence was revealed to the government by an employee of the Erskines. Samples of the ore were analysed by Sir Isaac Newton and found to be very rich. Sir John was later able to secure a pardon for his role in the rising, on condition he revealed all he knew about the mine, and gave a tenth of the proceeds to the government. Mining resumed a few years later and the remainder of the deposit was extracted. Later, in 1759, a vein carrying erythrite, an ore of cobalt, was found and gave a new lease of life to the mines, but it was soon exhausted
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the most notable waterfalls near Alloa?
The most notable waterfalls are primarily found in Alva Glen, located just north of Alloa at the foot of the Ochil Hills. This glen features a series of five waterfalls, including the impressive Craighorn Fall and the hidden Big Fall which cascades into Smugglers' Cave. Another significant waterfall is at the Silver Glen, approximately 1 km east of Alva.
Are the waterfall walks near Alloa suitable for families?
Yes, the walks through Alva Glen are generally considered short and easy, with well-maintained paths, making them suitable for various fitness levels and families. The glen offers a diverse and attractive natural setting that children can enjoy.
What historical insights can I discover while visiting the waterfalls?
The area around the waterfalls is rich in history. In Alva Glen, you can see remnants of the textile industry, such as an old dam and workshops, along with ancient hill-terraces known as 'The Delvins'. The Silver Glen is historically significant for its 18th-century silver mine, which was once the richest deposit of native silver in the British Isles.
What kind of wildlife and natural features can I expect to see?
Alva Glen boasts a diverse ecosystem. The forest floor is often carpeted with wildflowers, and it's a habitat for various wildlife, including kestrels and long-tailed wagtails. The glen itself is a spectacular gorge with cascading waterfalls and surrounding woodlands.
Is there parking available for the waterfall trails?
Yes, parking is typically available near the entrances to the glens, such as for Alva Glen. It's always advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your visit.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Alloa?
The waterfalls are beautiful year-round. During spring and autumn, the surrounding foliage offers vibrant colours. In winter, they can be particularly striking with ice formations. Each year, the formal garden and waterfalls in Alva Glen are illuminated with colored lights, creating a stunning spectacle that attracts visitors, especially in the darker months.
Are there any other outdoor activities or routes near these waterfalls?
Absolutely. The area around Alloa offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the "Three Robins Coffee – The Inn at Cambus loop from Alloa" or more challenging mountain hikes such as the "Mill Glen Waterfalls – The Law (Ochil Hills) loop from Clackmannanshire". For cyclists, there are traffic-free bike rides like the "Clackmannan Way Cycle Path – Pittencrieff Park loop from Alloa". You can explore more options on our easy hikes, mountain hikes, and traffic-free bike rides guides for Alloa.
What makes the waterfalls in Alva Glen unique?
Alva Glen is unique for its series of five waterfalls, including the 23-meter Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall which leads to Smugglers' Cave. The glen also features annual illuminations of its waterfalls and gardens, and it's actively maintained by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust volunteers, preserving its natural beauty and historical elements.
Can I visit Castle Campbell from Dollar Glen Waterfall?
Yes, the Dollar Glen Waterfall is part of a beautiful walk that leads up to Castle Campbell. You can walk up one side of the glen to reach the castle and return via the other bank, enjoying the many waterfalls, gullies, and pools along the way.
Are there any challenging trails near the waterfalls for experienced hikers?
While many paths are easy, some areas, particularly within Alva Glen and near the Silver Glen Waterfall, can be intermediate to challenging. For instance, a black (expert) mountain bike trail named The Minefield descends from the Silver Glen, featuring steep, rocky, and rooty sections with drop-offs. Always check trail difficulty before heading out.
What should I wear for a waterfall hike in this region?
Given the varied terrain and potential for wet conditions, it's recommended to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Layers of clothing are advisable to adapt to changing weather, and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea. Paths can be uneven and slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
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