Top 3 Waterfalls around Alva
Waterfalls around Alva are located within Alva Glen, at the foot of the Ochil Hills in Scotland. This diverse gorge features a forest floor and is home to various wildlife. The glen also contains remnants of a textile industry and ancient hill-terraces, offering historical context alongside its natural features. Alva Glen is home to five waterfalls, including Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall.
Best waterfalls around Alva
- The most popular waterfalls is Smugglers' Cave, Alva Glen, a cave and…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Waterfalls of Alva Glen
Highlight • Waterfall
Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor …
Tip by
Silver Glen Waterfall and Silver Mine
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Smugglers' Cave, Alva Glen
Highlight • Cave
Alva Glen is a diverse and attractive glen. The forest floor …
Tip by
Dollar Glen Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
New wood sculptures going in next week. A butterfly and Neanderthal man.
1
0
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.
0
0
Dollar Glen. Magical with its many waterfalls, gullies and pools. Walk up one side to Castle Campbell and return via the other bank.
1
0
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).
1
0
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
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main waterfalls to explore in Alva Glen?
Alva Glen is home to five waterfalls, with Craighorn Fall, plunging 23 meters, and the Big Fall, which dramatically cascades into the Smugglers' Cave, being particularly prominent. The glen itself is a diverse and attractive gorge, offering a picturesque experience.
Are there other notable waterfalls near Alva beyond Alva Glen?
Yes, just a short distance away, you can visit Dollar Glen Waterfall. This magical spot features many waterfalls, gullies, and pools, with walkways leading up to Castle Campbell.
What kind of walks can I expect in Alva Glen?
Alva Glen offers walks through a spectacular gorge at the foot of the Ochil Hills. The paths lead you past the various waterfalls, including Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall. While some sections can be challenging, there are also easy hikes available, such as a 1.6 km loop between the Waterfalls of Alva Glen and Craighorn Fall.
What natural features can I see in Alva Glen besides the waterfalls?
Beyond the impressive waterfalls, Alva Glen boasts a rich forest floor carpeted with wild flowers. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including kestrels and long-tailed wagtails. The glen itself is a stunning gorge, offering beautiful natural scenery.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest near the waterfalls?
Yes, Alva Glen has a rich history. You can still see remnants of a busy textile industry, including an old dam and workshops, with information signs detailing the area's past. Additionally, ancient hill-terraces, known locally as ‘The Delvins’, are visible on the slopes. Nearby, the Silver Glen Waterfall and Silver Mine offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's mining heritage, including the story of the richest native silver deposit ever found in the British Isles.
When is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Alva Glen?
The waterfalls are beautiful year-round. However, for a unique experience, consider visiting during the annual illuminations when the formal garden and waterfalls within Alva Glen are lit with colored lights, attracting visitors from across central Scotland.
Are the Alva Glen waterfalls suitable for families or dogs?
Alva Glen is generally considered family-friendly, offering an engaging outdoor experience. For dog owners, the glen provides a scenic walk, though some sections can be challenging. Always keep dogs under control and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?
The area around Alva offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging loops to Ben Cleuch summit. For hikers, there are easy hikes and more difficult routes. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like 'The Minefield' near the Silver Glen Waterfall, though some paths in Alva Glen are not suitable for bikes.
What do visitors enjoy most about Alva Glen?
Visitors frequently highlight the spectacular gorge, the beauty of the five waterfalls, and the rich natural environment with its wildflowers and wildlife. The historical remnants of the textile industry and the annual illuminations also add to the unique appeal of the glen.
Is there parking available for Alva Glen?
Yes, there is a car park available from which you can access the paths leading to the waterfalls and other features of Alva Glen.
Most popular routes around Alva
Most popular attractions around Alva
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Alva:
