When Jessica and Matthew began planning their elopement from Sweden, they knew they wanted something deeply personal, outdoorsy, and unforgettable.

Rather than a traditional ceremony, they chose to elope in the heart of the Scottish Highlands – hiking to the breathtaking Steall Falls in Glen Nevis for their vows, wrapping themselves in tartan and finishing the day under soft lantern light in Glencoe.

If you’re dreaming of an adventurous hiking elopement surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, keep reading – this is your wee guide to planning a Steall Falls elopement, complete with practical tips and location inspiration.

Why Steall Falls Is Perfect Elopement Location

Steall Falls is one of the most dramatic waterfalls in Scotland, cascading nearly 120 meters down a rocky cliff in Glen Nevis, near Fort William.

It’s not just photogenic – it’s legendary. You might recognise it from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, where it appeared during the dragon challenge in the Triwizard Tournament – or later Harry Potter adventures during Gryffindor Quidditch matches. Didn’t it look spectacular in the rain?

For couples looking for a wild and secluded place to exchange vows, Steall Falls offers cinematic beauty, a sense of adventure and a deeply romantic setting tucked away in nature.

Scenic view of Glen Nevis valley in the Scottish Highlands with a river winding through bare winter trees and snow-kissed mountain peaks
Diptych: Bride hiking through a forest trail in Glen Nevis wearing a blue jacket over her wedding dress, embracing an adventurous elopement morning; Groom carrying wedding attire and flowers while walking along a wooded path in the Scottish Highlands before the ceremony
The groom helps the bride descend a rocky path near a small waterfall. She lifts her voluminous white dress as he steadies her, both dressed warmly for the hike
Left image: A candid close-up of the bride, smiling into the wind with her hair and earrings dancing. Her bold earrings and bright red lipstick pop against her blue waterproof jacket; Right image: The groom grins as he walks, holding the dress bag
The couple walk hand-in-hand toward Steall Falls, wedding dress billowing behind her
Left image: A wide view of Steall Falls spilling down the rugged cliffside, framed by steep Highland slopes; Right image: The couple huddle together, laughing while reviewing something on a smartphone atop a tripod
The ceremony begins. The bride and groom stand in the grassy field with Steall Falls behind them. Her veil trails out dramatically as the celebrant stands opposite
Left image: The couple bow their heads together, hands clasped as the officiant reads. Steall Falls looms behind them, a powerful symbol of nature’s presence in their vows; Right image: A close-up captures the bride’s radiant smile as she looks at the groom
A closer moment in the ceremony: the couple gaze at each other, hands held, as the officiant speaks. The bride is wrapped in tartan and wearing a floral crown
Left image: The bride holds the groom’s hand, bringing it to her lips with a soft smile; Right image: He pulls her into a deep embrace, her eyes closed against his chest
The newlyweds stand side by side in front of Steall Falls, wrapped in tartan and smiling with two black Labrador dogs at their feet. The bride holds a bold, autumnal bouquet, and the dramatic Highland backdrop rises behind them
Left image: The couple poses with two guests and their dogs in the Glen Nevis meadow, Steall Falls cascading behind them; Right image: A tighter crop of the same group shows joyful smiles, the bride’s bouquet in focus, and the father of the groom popping a bottle of fizz — laughter and celebration in full swing
The groom wraps his arms tightly around the bride in an affectionate hug. Her eyes sparkle as she smiles at the camera, tartan cloak draped over her shoulders
Left image: Everyone raises a paper cup in a celebratory toast following the ceremony; Right image: The bride closes her eyes, deeply embracing a guest;
The bride and groom share a gentle kiss in the grass as Steall Falls towers behind them
Newlyweds stand hand in hand in a wild highland glen, framed by golden grass and a dramatic mountain backdrop, with Steall Falls cascading behind them
A close-up of two intertwined hands, the bride’s engagement ring and delicate tattoo beautifully in focus
Left image: The couple shares a quiet moment, foreheads gently resting together with her windswept hair Right image: A kiss lingers on her lips as the groom holds her cheek tenderly
Captured in playful black and white, the bride laughs heartily while seated on the grass in her wedding gown and a puffy jacket, her groom bending down to kiss her forehead

The Hike to Steall Falls: what to expect

Getting to the falls involves a scenic walk that adds to the sense of adventure.

  • Distance: Around 3.5 km (2.2 miles) round-trip
  • Time: About 45 – 1 hour each way (remember to allow a decent amount of time in the middle – for the ceremony and epic waterfall shots!)
  • Difficulty: The path is clear and very well-marked, but quite rocky and uneven in parts. After heavy rain, small sections can become flooded or muddy.

One of the most exciting (and memorable!) features of the hike is the wire bridge that spans a cold river near the falls. Crossing it requires balance and courage, making it a fun and symbolic challenge for adventurous couples.

It’s important to consider the fitness levels of everyone involved — not just you and your partner, but also your photographer, celebrant, and any guests. Proper hiking shoes and waterproof layers are essential, even over a wedding dress!

When to Elope at Steall Falls

The falls are beautiful year-round, but each season brings a different atmosphere.

  • Spring & summer: Lush greenery, longer days – but busier trails and limited parking.
  • Autumn & winter: Fewer crowds, peaceful solitude, and dramatic light. Late autumn through early spring offers the most privacy and moodiest photos.

Parking can be tricky, especially around midday in warmer months. The Upper Glen Nevis car park is small and fills up quickly, so arrive early or opt for a weekday elopement during quieter seasons.

You’ll find more information on the Steall Falls hiking trail here.

Tips for Planning Your Own Steall Falls Elopement

1. Prepare for the trail.
Wear waterproof layers, good hiking shoes, and bring warm coats. You can change into wedding attire closer to the waterfall if you prefer – just remember that there are no facilities in the area.

2. Think about accessibility.
While the hike isn’t long, it’s not suitable for everyone. Make sure your guests, officiant and photographer are all comfortable with uneven terrain. You can spare your suppliers and guests the rope bridge crossing – just don’t forget to bring your photographer as close to the falls as possible! The closer you get, the more epic waterfall photos you’ll end up with.

3. Stay close by.
Glencoe is just a short drive away and offers incredible photo opportunities. Staying at a place like Glencoe House adds comfort and elegance to balance your wild outdoor ceremony.

4. Add Scottish traditions.
From tartan shawls to a handfasting ceremony or a whisky toast from a quaich, weaving local customs into your day makes it even more meaningful.

The mighty Steall Falls take center stage here, with the full height of the waterfall tumbling down rugged cliffs
A bride in a puffy white wedding dress is carefully crossing a wire bridge over a river, clad in a blue waterproof jacket
The couple walks away from the camera, following a trail toward the towering Steall Falls in the distance
The bride stands on large moss-covered rocks at the base of the waterfall
The bride is smiling softly while turning toward the camera, the waterfall cascading behind her. Wind tousles her hair as she gazes slightly to the side
A full-length portrait of the bride, standing slightly off-center on jagged rocks with Steall Falls thundering behind her
Left image: The couple shares an intimate kiss, eyes closed, their foreheads nearly touching. The groom’s burgundy suit contrasts beautifully with the bride’s detailed lace dress; Right image: A close-up of their embrace highlights the intricate lace and beaded details of the bride’s gown and the groom’s hand on her waist
The bride leans into the groom, laughing joyfully as he kisses her on the forehead
Left image: The bride smiles warmly with her cheek against the groom’s chest, eyes closed; Right image: The couple stands closely together in front of the falls, gazing into the distance
The groom kissing bride's forehead as she gazes calmly outward, framed by the Steall Falls behind them
The couple stands embraced on a mossy cliffside, with the dramatic cascade of Steall Falls towering behind them
A tender close-up of the couple embracing. The bride’s eyes are closed peacefully as she leans into the groom's shoulder.
A wide-angle shot showcasing the full majesty of Steall Falls. The couple is positioned near the bottom center of the waterfall on their elopement day
The couple shares a soft kiss while holding hands, standing at the foot of the waterfall - Steall Falls elopement
Left Image: The couple stands on a mossy knoll in front of the waterfall, holding each other gently and kissing; Right Image: Bride and groom hold each other tightly, foreheads touching, in an intimate moment of stillness
A wide shot of Steall Waterfall cascading down jagged rock formations
The groom assists the bride across uneven rocks and a flowing stream. The bride beams joyfully, holding up her dress as she steps
The groom stands confidently on a rock, hands in pockets, dressed in a deep burgundy suit. The waterfall crashes behind him
Left image: A scenic view of the Scottish Highlands, a winding river cutting through a deep valley of leafless trees and rugged slopes under soft, overcast light; Right image: A playful and intimate moment - the couple takes a selfie, the camera focusing on the phone screen

Why Combine Steall Falls with Glencoe?

Eloping at Steall Falls gives you a dramatic waterfall backdrop, but its proximity to Glencoe means you can also capture moody mountain portraits, explore valleys, and wander heather-strewn paths – all in one day.

It’s what makes the central highlands such an incredible place to say “I do.”

A black-and-white close-up photograph of a set of wedding rings placed in the center of a blooming rose
A warm, softly lit scene showing a couple's hands holding champagne glasses in a toast. Behind them, tall white candles glow gently on a formal dining table, set in a wood-paneled room with large windows OF Glencoe House
A black-and-white image of a couple seated across from each other at an elegantly set round table. They are smiling and holding hands across the table
A tender moment in color as the couple embraces in front of a grand fireplace. The groom wraps his arms gently around the bride at Glencoe hotel
The couple sits side by side on a cream sofa in front of a crackling fireplace
The couple stands hand in hand on a grassy hill, each holding a lit lantern. The bride’s flowing dress catches the golden light of the setting sun
Left: The groom, holding a lantern, gazes into the distance while the bride looks at him with a soft smile. They’re framed by dramatic cliffs of the Three Sisters of Glencoe Right Frame: A solo portrait of the bride, glowing and joyful as she stands gracefully on a mossy slope
The bride stands alone in profile, her gown sweeping behind her as wind tousles her hair
A tender kiss between the couple holding lanterns at sunset
A wider landscape view shows the couple walking through the moorland, lanterns in hand, with the iconic white cottage of Glencoe in the background

Ready to Begin Planning your Hiking Elopement?

Eloping at Steall Falls is more than just a ceremony – it’s an adventure, a journey through one of the most cinematic landscapes on earth. Whether you’re hiking through the glen, crossing a river together through a rope bridge or warming up by the fire, it’s a day you’ll remember forever.

As Scotland elopement photographer I consider Steall Waterfall one of the most iconic elopement locations in the entire country.

And if you’re dreaming of a wild outdoor wedding in the Scottish Highlands, I’d love to help you bring it to life.

Let’s plan something beautiful – start by dropping me a message here.

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