The waterfall is one of the tallest in the United Kingdom, measuring 60 meters in height.
Loch Skeen, the source of the waterfall, sits at an elevation of over 300 meters above sea level.
The site hosts the rare flora species known as alpine sow-thistle and globe-flower.
The landscape was significantly shaped by glacial scouring during the last glacial maximum.
The walk involves a steep ascent that gains approximately 200 meters in elevation over a short horizontal distance.
Grey Mare's Tail is a 60-meter hanging valley waterfall located within the Moffat Hills, Southern Scotland. It features a dramatic, single-drop cascade formed by the Tail Burn descending from Loch Skeen. The site is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its rare upland flora and glacial landforms. The waterfall is accessible via a steep, rugged path maintained by the National Trust for Scotland. The surrounding landscape is dominated by hanging valleys and craggy slopes carved during the last ice age. The area provides critical habitat for the rare vendace, a type of freshwater fish residing in the nearby glacial loch. The terrain is part of a wider protected nature reserve managed for biodiversity and landscape conservation.
The viewing platform at the base for the full scale of the drop, or from the mid-point switchbacks for the best perspective of the valley.
Wear waterproof hiking boots with high ankle support due to the steep, uneven, and often muddy terrain.
Carry trekking poles to assist with balance on the slippery, slanted sections of the path.
Check local weather forecasts for high wind warnings, which can make the upper cliff paths dangerous.
Do not attempt the upper path toward Loch Skeen if you have limited hiking experience or inadequate footwear.
Keep dogs on a lead to protect livestock and ground-nesting birds; follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
