Alva Glen

A Gorge Steeped in Nature and Industry

Alva Glen cuts into the southern scarp of the Ochil Hills, a narrow, wooded gorge carved by the Alva Burn. The walk begins near the village of Alva and quickly enters a shaded, leafy corridor where the burn tumbles over rocks and through mossy channels. The forest floor is rich with wildflowers in spring and early summer, and birds such as kestrels and wagtails can often be seen or heard. This section feels like a classic Scottish woodland stroll, with the sound of rushing water and the dappled light filtering through the trees. The glen’s character is shaped by its dual identity: a natural ravine and a former industrial hub. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Alva was a centre of the Clackmannanshire woollen industry, and remnants of this past are scattered along the path. Old dams, mill foundations, and the iron pipe that once carried water to power the mills are still visible, adding a layer of historical interest to the walk. Information boards along the route explain how the burn’s energy drove machinery and supported a busy textile community.

Waterfalls and the Hidden Smuggler’s Cave

The highlight of the lower glen is its series of waterfalls. Five falls cascade down the burn, including the 23-metre Craighorn Fall and the Big Fall, which plunges into the dramatic Smuggler’s Cave. The cave itself is a deep, rocky chasm where the burn flows far below, and the hidden waterfall adds a sense of discovery to the walk. The path criss-crosses the burn on old bridges and ironwork, giving frequent close-up views of the falls and the swirling pools beneath. During certain times of year, the formal gardens and waterfalls are illuminated with coloured lights, creating a magical evening display that draws visitors from across central Scotland. Even without the lights, the interplay of water, rock and greenery makes this a photogenic spot, especially after rain when the falls are at their fullest. The glen’s microclimate supports lush ferns, mosses and lichens, enhancing the sense of a secluded, almost enchanted woodland.

From Gorge to Hillside Vistas

After the waterfall section, the path leaves the dense woodland and climbs more steeply onto the open hillside. Here, the character of the walk changes: the shade gives way to open skies, and the views expand dramatically. From the higher paths, you can look back down the glen and across the surrounding Ochil Hills, with glimpses of the River Forth and, on clear days, the Forth Road Bridge in the distance. The upper route to the very top of the glen is currently closed due to erosion on a path that runs along a significant drop, so visitors should follow the marked lower route and respect on-site signage. The remaining trail still offers a satisfying hillside climb with zig-zagging paths and grassy spurs, culminating in a viewpoint near Smuggler’s Cave. This elevated section feels a world away from the village below, combining the effort of a proper hill walk with the reward of expansive views.

A Community-Cared Natural Space

Alva Glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust, a volunteer group dedicated to preserving and enhancing the glen. Their work includes planting native trees and shrubs, removing invasive species, and maintaining the paths and information boards. This community stewardship has helped transform the area into a green oasis, where nature has reclaimed much of the industrial landscape. The glen is also a popular spot for canyoning and gorge walking, with experienced groups descending the slot canyon sections using abseils and slides. For most visitors, though, it remains a well-loved walking route that combines history, geology and scenery in a compact and accessible package. Whether you’re drawn by the waterfalls, the industrial relics or the hilltop views, Alva Glen offers a rich and varied experience just a short distance from the village of Alva.