The best waterfall hikes and walks around New Lanark

New Lanark offers nearly 20 dedicated waterfall hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. These trails provide ample opportunities to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Falls of Clyde and the surrounding ancient woodlands.

Yes, there are several easy and family-friendly options perfect for all ages. For instance, the View of Corra Linn Waterfall – Boardwalk by the River loop is an easier 3.4-mile (5.5 km) path through ancient woodlands, offering beautiful views of the Falls of Clyde. Many trails are well-maintained and suitable for a leisurely family outing.

The waterfalls, especially the impressive Falls of Clyde, are often at their most spectacular after periods of heavy rain or during the spring thaw. While beautiful year-round, visiting in late autumn, winter, or early spring can offer a more dramatic display of water flow. The surrounding woodlands also offer stunning seasonal colours.

Many trails around New Lanark and the Falls of Clyde are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the scenic walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like the Clyde Valley Woodlands, to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Please remember to clean up after your dog.

Yes, many of the most popular waterfall hikes in New Lanark are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location while experiencing different views. The Boardwalk by the River – Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls) loop is a moderate 6.5-mile (10.4 km) circular trail that offers extensive views of the waterfalls.

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of New Lanark World Heritage Site, an 18th-century cotton spinning mill village. The Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls) are part of a nature reserve, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. Nearby Castlebank Park Woodland and River Walk also provides beautiful garden areas and trails.

Parking is available at the New Lanark World Heritage Site, which serves as a convenient starting point for many of the waterfall trails, including those leading to the Falls of Clyde. From there, trails like the Boardwalk by the River – View of Corra Linn Waterfall loop are easily accessible.

Yes, New Lanark is accessible by public transport. You can take a train to Lanark station, which is approximately a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride from the New Lanark World Heritage Site. From there, the waterfall trails are well-signposted and easily reachable on foot.

Absolutely! The Falls of Clyde consist of a series of spectacular waterfalls, including Corra Linn, Bonnington Linn, and Dundaff Linn. Many trails are designed to take you past multiple falls, allowing you to experience the grandeur of each. The Boardwalk by the River – Falls of Clyde (Waterfalls) loop is an excellent example, guiding you past several of these impressive cascades.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the powerful waterfalls, the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained paths. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance, particularly around the New Lanark World Heritage Site, is also frequently highlighted.

While the main viewpoints for Corra Linn and Bonnington Linn can be popular, especially on weekends, exploring some of the longer loops or visiting during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) can offer a more tranquil experience. The extensive network of trails through the Clyde Valley Woodlands means you can often find quieter sections away from the immediate waterfall viewpoints.