Map & Elevation
About this Route
The Fairy Pools bring the drama of the Black Cuillin within reach of a short walk. The path leaves the Glen Brittle road, crosses open moorland and follows Allt Coire a’ Mhadaidh upstream beside clear pools and small waterfalls. Dark ridges fill the head of the glen, giving this little valley walk a much bigger mountain backdrop.
This GPX follows the usual out-and-back pools walk, using the footbridges and continuing beside the water to the upper pools before returning along the same path. It measures 3.3 km with 118 m ascent. Allow 1½–2 hours to walk and enjoy the pools; the 52-minute Naismith estimate is moving time only. The shorter walk to the first main waterfall turns around earlier.
Much of the approach has a firm gravel surface, but there are steep sections, rough rock and wet ground beside the pools. The river can rise quickly after rain. Enjoy the falls from the established path, keep back from slippery edges and turn back if flooding or ice makes the route unsafe. Footbridges improve the crossings but do not remove the need to judge conditions.
Use the designated car park opposite the path entrance and cross the single-track road carefully. Check current parking arrangements on arrival and keep passing places clear. Carry a waterproof layer, water and an offline map, even for a short visit: the Cuillin can disappear into cloud while you are still in the valley. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and take every scrap of litter away.
This short walk on the Isle of Skye visits one of the most magical places in Scotland - the stunning waterfalls of the Fairy Pools.
Holly Barber, The Outdoor Guide
Route Waypoints
Start in the designated visitor car park in Glen Brittle, near NG 423 258. Walk to the entrance and cross the road carefully to the pedestrian gate opposite. Vehicles use this narrow road and its passing places.
Go through the gate and descend the gravel path. Use the established route and first footbridge as it crosses the burn. The approach includes a short steep descent which becomes an uphill finish on the return.
Continue across open moorland on the main gravel path, keeping towards the pools rather than following the path towards Sligachan. The Allt Coire a’ Mhadaidh comes alongside on your right. Cross the second footbridge on the maintained path.
Follow the riverside path uphill past the waterfall section. Stay on the main path above the pools, allowing room for people returning the same way. The rocks beside the water can be very slippery; the GPX does not require entering the river.
Reach the turnaround on the established path beside the upper pools, with the Cuillin ahead. Pause to enjoy the view, then retrace your route. Continuing towards Coire na Creiche or Sligachan would be a different walk.
Follow the same path back downstream, use both footbridges and climb the final slope to the road. Cross carefully into the car park. In poor visibility, keep the downloaded route and map available rather than relying on the view.
Essential Tips
Heavy rain can rapidly change the burns and pools. Stay on the established path, use the bridges and keep clear of wet rock edges. Turn back if a section is flooded or icy; a short distance does not guarantee easy conditions.
Park in the designated Fairy Pools car park and check current charges and opening arrangements there. Keep the single-track road and passing places clear, and cross the road with care at the start and finish.
Bring footwear with grip, waterproofs and a warm layer. Much of the route is open to wind and rain, with rougher footing around the pools. Allow time for photographs and a slower return if the path is busy.
Keep dogs on leads near livestock and leave gates as found. Take litter home and stay on durable paths rather than widening muddy edges. Enjoy the water from the bank; swimming and jumping are not part of this walking route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Fairy Pools walk?
This GPX goes from the visitor car park to the upper pools and back: 3.3 km with 118 m ascent. Allow around 1½–2 hours with stops. The 52-minute Naismith estimate is moving time, and a turnaround at the first main waterfall gives a shorter walk.
Do you need to cross stepping stones at the Fairy Pools?
The route uses the two footbridges on the maintained approach. Rough and wet ground remains beside the pools, so wear suitable footwear and check the conditions. Turn back if flooding, ice or damaged infrastructure makes the path unsafe.
Is this the Fairy Pools and Coire na Creiche circuit?
No. This is the standard riverside pools walk, returning along the same path to Glen Brittle. It turns around beside the upper pools and does not continue around Coire na Creiche or across to Sligachan.